Applying ultrasonic echolocation-based measurement method to increase the accuracy of leveling instruments

Current mechanical, laser and electronic leveling instruments are sometimes not accurate enough to be used for determining either vertical or horizontal level for level-critical applications. By using an ultrasonic echolocation-based distance meter it is possible to design very accurate leveling instruments for a wide range of applications. This article overviews the accuracy of current leveling instruments and compares it with the achievable accuracy of the proposed leveling devices. Level determination of horizontal and vertical surfaces using mechanical devices is explained. By combining the ultrasonic distance determination method with the mechanical level determination methods, very precise leveling instruments can potentially be created. Some exemplary designs of such leveling instruments are presented. In addition, basic operating principles of an ultrasonic echolocation-based distance measurement device are presented, along with sources of measurement errors of such devices. Solutions for eliminating measurement errors are discussed. Since accuracy is the top priority, we suggest creating an isolated operating environment for acoustic measurements. A practical example of using a leveling device with implemented ultrasonic measurement method is presented along with measurement results.