Kinematic Controller Upgrade
Posted By Shawn Billings on 3/30/2001 at 10:12 AM

I am probably about a year and a half late on this, but I have a few suggestions on possible upgrades.

Hardware

PDA-running PocketPC

Software

1. Add sketch routine. Just a simple straight line and free hand sketch routine that could be printed in the office. Also it should be able to be annotated.

2. I don't know if the units will allow for this, but how about a feature allowing the controller to read the current autonomous location of the reciever. Then allow for simple navigation to a known point. (For hunting control points)

3. This is asking for too much I know, but how about post processing in the field? Using a PDA I think it might be possible but I don't know. You would (to my knowledge) have a one of a kind.

4. No disrespect to Rod Johnson, but I disagree with his statement on DGPS (post processed) with LOCUS. There are no indicators in the field to let the user know during kinematic work of any assurance that the data will process accurately. I still have not completed my own testing on this but preliminarily have found that without init. in kinematic mode accuracies of 50 cm can be achieved. That being said (if the 50 cm is a correct assertion) add a GIS data capture screen allowing for numerous data fields. Maybe this idea could be implemented in a hydrography set up.

It would at least seem that a great deal could be added to the list of system features just revamping the controller. Just my thoughts.

Shawn Billings
SIT Texas




You are a smart man...
Posted By Lew Block, pls ca on 3/30/2001 at 3:54 PM

at ACSM in Lost Wages last week, I saw a beta version of Ashtech Locus Handheld software for Windows CE, runs on a little PDA.

The 48 is dead, long live the PDA.


Re: Kinematic Controller Upgrade
Posted By Greg Shimp on 3/30/2001 at 5:17 PM

I like your ideas, Shawn. I'd like to see Ashtech put some kind of port on the Locus that will allow a direct (i.e. wire) hook-up to a PDA, 48GX, Husky, or whatever.

I know the wireless system was a big selling point for Locus, and personally, I think it's a great set-up. But, there are limitations. A 9-pin data port would be a nice way to expand the functionality of the units.

It could allow for autonomous navigation (as you said), or allow the user to add a beacon for RTCM, sub-meter GIS work, navigation to control, etc ...

Just some more thoughts ...

-Greg


Re: Kinematic Controller Upgrade
Posted By William Martin on 4/2/2001 at 11:10 AM

Shawn,

Thanks for your input. Some of your ideas are certainly do-able. Others may be difficult. We'll keep them all in mind as we move forward.

Thanks again.

Bill Martin
Ashtech Precision Products


Re: Kinematic Controller Upgrade
Posted By Bill Tellier on 4/3/2001 at 6:55 PM

Great Post Shawn!

If enough Locus users want these upgrades, as I know I do, I'm sure Ashtech will accomodate us.

-wat-