Tech Chat | Introduction to AR Stakeout

In recent years, AR (Augmented Reality) technology has brought a fresh visual experience to traditional GNSS stakeout work. Instead of relying solely on numerical data and compass directions, surveyors can now intuitively see the design points and stakeout guidance overlaid on the real-world scene. In this blog, let's take a deeper look at how AR stakeout works and how it is implemented in SingularXYZ solutions.

I. Technical Principles of AR Stakeout

AR stakeout is a visualization-based stakeout technology that integrates multiple hardware modules to display design points in real-world imagery. Its core relies on three main components:

1. GNSS-Based Positioning

• Role: Receives signals from multiple satellites to compute the position, speed, and time of the receiver on Earth.
• Advantage: Delivers real-time, high-precision positioning under all weather conditions with strong environmental adaptability.

2. IMU Sensor

• Role: Measures acceleration and angular velocity to calculate motion trajectory and attitude change when combined with the initial state.
• Advantage: Provides high update rate and short-term high accuracy, improving positioning stability and direction recognition.

3. Visual Verification via Camera

• Role: Calibrates the camera using tools like a checkerboard pattern to determine its internal and external parameters, thus mapping image pixels to real-world coordinates.
• Advantage: Enables intuitive visual feedback through AR overlays, helping users easily verify stakeout direction and position.

Together, these technologies enable surveyors to visualize stakeout targets directly in the field, making the entire process more user-friendly and error-resistant.

II. AR Stakeout Methods in SingularXYZ Solutions

At SingularXYZ, we provide two AR stakeout options depending on the hardware configuration. While both improve visibility and guidance, they serve different needs.

1. AR Stakeout Using the Controller Camera (Basic Mode)

This method utilizes the camera built into your data controller. When connected to a GNSS receiver via SingularPad software, users can enable AR mode in the stakeout interface to view virtual targets overlaid on the real scene.

• Advantages:

  • No need for a camera-integrated RTK receiver.
  • Cost-effective and compatible with most controllers.

• Limitations:

  • AR guidance is based on the GNSS receiver's position but uses the controller's camera and compass, causing a physical offset between the view and positioning origin, so it may only provide rough directional cues.

Read previous blog for more details and tutorials about controller camera AR: Tech Chat | Maximizing Stakeout Efficiency with SingularPad's AR Integration

2. AR Stakeout Using Receiver Camera

The Orion ONE receiver features an integrated camera module, allowing it to collect image data and transmit it in real time to the SingularPad software. Once connected via Wi-Fi, the app overlays stakeout targets directly in the camera's view — from the exact position of the receiver.

• Advantages:

  • True-position AR, where both imagery and positioning are captured from the same reference.

  • Centimeter-level visual guidance ideal for precision stakeout.

• Requirements:

  • Requires a receiver with built-in camera functionality.

Read previous blog for more details and tutorials about receiver camera AR: Tech Chat | Mastering Visual AR Stakeout with Orion ONE

In short, while both methods support AR stakeout, Orion ONE's integrated solution provides more precise accuracy and visual alignment, making it ideal for high-precision construction, utility layout, and infrastructure surveys.

As technologies like IMU, visual sensors, and GNSS converge, surveying workflows are becoming smarter and more intuitive. AR stakeout is a prime example — transforming traditional stakeout into a visual experience.

If you're aiming for high-precision AR stakeout, the Orion ONE receiver offers an all-in-one solution that brings centimeter-level accuracy and real-time guidance into the palm of your hand.

Learn more about SingularXYZ AR Stakeout solutions,

https://www.singularxyz.com/Orion_ONE_AR.html
https://www.singularxyz.com/Orion_ONE.html