Beyond Vision: An Automatic Straightedge Recognition System and Its 
Applications 
R. Ge*, Hirofiimi Chikatsu** 
Department of Civil Engineering, 
Tokyo Denki University 
Japan 
E-mail: * GHA12214@niftv.ne.jp. **chikatsu@g.dendai.ac.jp 
Commission II, Working Group 1 
KEY WORDS: Beyond vision, Straightedge, FFT, Global matching 
ABSTRACT 
The paper presents the complete new method for the automatic recognition system of the 
straightedge, and its applications were also discussed not only in the field of surveying and mapping 
but also in the field of industry. With the help of the system, not only the height can be measured; the 
distance can also be estimated. It can be say the very flex and convenient system to get height and 
distance for some special place Furthermore, it is possible to replace the level system in the field of 
surveying in varying degrees. 
0. INTRODUCTION 
With the development of sensor technology and 
computer science, how to lighten the burden on 
the work or reduce labor intensity with the help 
of new technology is our main responsibility. 
The paper presents the complete new method 
for the automatic recognition system of the 
straightedge, and its applications were also 
discussed not only in the field of surv eying and 
mapping but also in the field of industry. With 
the help of the system, not only the height can 
be measured; the distance can also be estimated. 
It can be say the very flex and convenient 
system to get height and distance for some 
special place. Furthermore, it is possible to 
replace the level system in the field of 
surveying in varying degrees. In the field of 
surveying, most of the famous manufactories of 
the surveying instruments present their digital 
levels requirements, because it can make 
leveling work quicker and easier. However, all 
kinds of the digital levels in the market now are 
based on so called "bar-code” technology, that 
is to say the special bar-code pattern based staff 
is needed As to the bar code based staff, it is 
relative easier to determine the position (That is 
height in leveling) with the help of CCD line