Tag: built structures

  • Leica Releases Viva GNSS Unlimited Series

    Leica Releases Viva GNSS Unlimited Series

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    Leica Viva GS100

    The Leica Viva GNSS Unlimited Series, available in August, will allow customers to make a safe investment with future-proof GNSS receivers and smart antennas, Leica Geosystems said in announcing the new series. With a flexible design, the Viva GNSS sensors can be upgraded for maximum performance whenever needed.

    The Leica Viva GNSS range fully supports the Chinese BeiDou navigation system. It can even provide BeiDou-only and GLONASS-only high-precision positioning. The unlimited series includes a future upgrade to a GNSS board with more than 500 channels and will serve users’ needs beyond 2020, the company said. Outages of real-time kinematic (RTK) communication links are bridged for up to 10 minutes with SmartLink to increase centimeter position availability in areas where RTK communications links are unstable.

    Leica Viva GS15
    Leica Viva GS15

    The Leica Viva GNSS Unlimited Series can be upgraded to the full range of GNSS signals. The sensors’ future-proof design is equipped for GNSS modernization, providing users with confidence in their investment. The series embraces the future-proof concept by including an upgrade to a GNSS board with more than 500 channels. To fully guarantee future proof GNSS, board exchanges are inevitable because any likely modifications in GNSS signals require a new GNSS ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

    Leica SmartTrack technology guarantees accurate signal tracking, while SmartCheck technology evaluates and verifies RTK measurements to ensure reliable results. Both SmartTrack and SmartCheck technologies have been extended to support the BeiDou GNSS. BeiDou reached full operational regional capability in 2012 and has a total of 14 satellites. Leica Viva GNSS also supports features like BeiDou-only and GLONASS-only positioning to accommodate governmental regulations.

    In addition, Leica Geosystems now offers SmartLink, a correction service delivered via satellite for uninterrupted centimeter positioning in areas where RTK communication links are unstable.

    Leica Viva GS14
    Leica Viva GS14

    All Leica Viva GNSS products exceed the toughest environmental specifications, going beyond industrial standards such as IP68. This ensures flawless performance even in the most challenging environments. Applications for the range include construction and field surveying, mining, seismic work in dense forest, desert or mountains, as well as demanding work in extreme heat at 65°C (149 °F) or at extreme latitudes at -30°C (-22 °F). Premium precision and attention to detail ensure that the Leica Viva GNSS products can be trusted throughout the complete product lifetime.

    Leica Viva offers a complete range of unlimited GNSS and TPS solutions made with Swiss precision, combining the highest accuracy with maximum versatility and optimized data flow. Leica Viva solutions include Active Customer Care (ACC) with an expansive organization of knowledgeable professionals to provide valuable support, training and service whenever needed. Combined with innovative services such as online support in the field with Leica Active Assist and an instant data exchange between field and office with Leica Exchange, Leica Viva enables continuous productivity.


    Webinar on Multi-GNSS OEM

    Thursday, June 5
    10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. GMT

    GPS World’s upcoming webinar features an expert panel with informed viewpoints from GNSS high-precision and mass-market manufacturing, signal simulation, and alternative PNT providers. Registration is free.

  • Trimble Launches New Version of 4D Control Software

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    Trimble has introduced the latest version of its deformation monitoring software, Trimble 4D Control version 4.3. The latest version features new optional monitoring applications — the High Rise App, the SeismoGeodetic App and the Trimble 4D Control Site Setup App for Trimble Access — to better analyze complex data communicated from a broad range of GNSS, optical, geotechnical, seismic, atmospheric and metrological sensors.

    Trimble says it is continuing to expand the ways in which quantifying movement change can be automated using a range of geodetic, seismic and engineering sensors. The opportunities in automation play a significant part in effective project safety management and construction strategies, the company said. Equally important is the analysis of complex data communicated via simple visual terms in order to understand the impacts of change between disciplines.

    Version 4.3 includes a dedicated page to support the functionality of the High Rise App and Composite Views for combining charts, plots and other displays. High-frequency charts, comparative bar charts, tabular and windrose analysis as well as a new visualization tool designated for in-place inclinometers and tilt meter arrays are ways to examine complex data and present findings in a meaningful way, Trimble said.

    In addition to the new High Rise App, SeismoGeodetic App and Trimble 4D Control Site Setup App, the software release and apps also provide new functionality for data processing, visualization and analysis. The interactive Web Interface, Trimble 4D Control Web, provides improved multi-select control and more granularity for customizing alarms.

    High Rise App: The High Rise App is intended to monitor high-rise structures during construction using GNSS and inclination sensors. Integrated processing of GNSS, total station and inclination data delivers precise and reliable coordinates on demand for stake-out jobs on structures subject to tilt such as towers and high rise buildings.

    SeismoGeodetic App: The SeismoGeodetic App integrates the advantages of high-precision GNSS data and high frequency strong motion data. The data from co-located GNSS receivers and Trimble REF TEK strong motion accelerometers can now be processed in an integrated approach resulting in high-precision 3D positions up to a sample rate of 500 Hz.

    Trimble 4D Control Site Setup App for Trimble Access: The Trimble 4D Control Site Setup App for Trimble Access field software allows the user to create, enhance or modify a total station site setup for Trimble 4D Control using a Trimble field controller. Once the site setup has been transferred to Trimble 4D Control, round measurements can be performed immediately without the need to run the Site Setup functionality on the server.

    Trimble 4D Control version 4.3, High Rise App, SeismoGeodetic App and the Trimble 4D Control Site Setup App for Trimble Access software are available now from Trimble’s worldwide Infrastructure distribution network.

  • Topcon Adds Apps, Expands TopNETlive Service

    Topcon Positioning Group has added two new mobile applications to the Apple App Store.  Topcon Tierra and Sitelink3D mobile apps are designed to offer on-the-go remote connections to equipment and job sites.

    The Topcon Tierra mobile app lets customers login with their existing passwords and track their equipment fleets from an iPhone or iPad. “The Topcon Tierra app allows users to easily check on their fleets, fences, productivity reports and get alerts any time, anywhere,” said Kris Maas, construction products marketing manager.  The Topcon Tierra mobile app is available to download at no charge.

    Customers can also manage and monitor job sites with the new Topcon Sitelink3D mobile app. “The Sitelink3D app lets users visualize real-time project management information on their iPhone or iPad with their existing Sitelink3D logins,” said Maas. “Remote connection to equipment within Sitelink3D is easier than ever with the addition of the app.” The Sitelink3D mobile app is available for purchase on the Apple App Store.

    TopNETlive Expands. Topcon Positioning Group also announced the expansion of its TopNETlive network service into 19 states and five Canadian provinces. TopNETlive uses a dense network of ground-based reference stations capable of supporting all major GNSS satellite constellations to provide high-accuracy with fast initialization time.

    The 24 states and provinces now included in the service are Alabama, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, Ontario, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and Quebec.

    “TopNETlive network service is a primary source for all levels of correction for users in the agriculture, construction, surveying, civil engineering and GIS industries,” said Jonathan Ball, senior manager for Topcon network business. “It is designed to support all makes and models of GNSS and guidance equipment, making it a logical choice for companies that use multiple brands of positioning equipment.”  Ball further states that, “TopNETlive offers many different subscription plans to fit the operations and the budget of almost any user.”

  • Topcon Technology Hits the Road in North America

     

    Topcon Technology Roadshow 2014, by Topcon Positioning Systems, launches in April. The hands-on educational program is focused on advanced positioning technologies and will feature a 5,000 square-foot mobile classroom/theater housed in a custom-designed 18-wheeler.

    The Technology Roadshow will cover North America, traveling more than 23,000 miles in six months. Each of the currently scheduled 23 stops for the free educational program – beginning April 10 in Pleasanton, California, and ending in October at Riverside, California — will include multiple sessions over two days. The events will focus on technology trends in the construction, surveying and GIS, engineering and architecture/engineering/contractor (AEC) professions.

    “With technology advancing so rapidly, many of our customers are telling us that it is difficult for them to keep up,” said Mark Contino, Topcon vice president of global marketing. “The Technology Roadshow is a fresh ‘we’ll-bring-the-technology-to-you’ concept that will provide an educational experience to construction and surveying professionals who want to learn about these exiting new solutions first hand, so they can determine the best fit for their business. Instead of flying half way across the country to attend a trade show or conference, we’re excited for this opportunity to bring tomorrow’s positioning technology to the construction, engineering and surveying backbone of North America — on their timetable, close to home, on a one-on-one basis.”

    “The focus of this unique learning event will demonstrate how the entire breadth of Topcon solutions works seamlessly together,” Contino said. “The real beauty is we’re bringing it directly to decision makers and end-users, allowing every company — big or small — the opportunity to see first-hand how new solutions and technologies can help them to become more productive and profitable.

    “We believe this rolling ‘user conference’ is a proactive way to help make sure the opportunity to learn about new technology is available to anyone who wants to learn.”Topcon industry and application professionals will staff the traveling unit. Topcon dealer personnel from the local area are tour sponsors and will assist them at each stop.

    For more information, go to the official Topcon Technology Roadshow website and register for an event in your area.

  • Topcon Adds Advances to P-32 Asphalt Paving System

    Topcon Adds Advances to P-32 Asphalt Paving System

    Topcon's P-32 asphalt paving system.
    Topcon’s P-32 asphalt paving system.

    Topcon Positioning Group announces advances to its P-32 asphalt paving system with new components including the ST-3 sonic tracker, anti-vibration slope sensor and a firmware update to the full-color, graphical display GC-35 control box.

    “The P-32 paver system was built to improve smoothness, ensure accurate slope and material thickness and provide unmatched operator ease-of-use,” said Kris Maas, machine control product marketing manager.  “Announced in 2013, the P-32 saves time and improves safety by allowing an operator to view elevation and slope values of the screed from a single control box. With these new components, this state-of-the-art 2D control system will continue to improve the speed and quality of asphalt paving.”

    The ST-3 sonic tracker is designed to enhanced position indication on string lines, give a wider range of linear detection and work better in tight areas. “The introduction of the ST-3 sonic tracker will increase productivity for users by providing smoother surface detections,” said Maas. “The smoother it can be, the faster the job will be finished.”

    The new slope sensor to the P-32 system is designed to increase accuracy in the most challenging conditions.  “This new slope sensor is amazingly resistant to vibrations and provides stable operation within dynamic temperature ranges,” said Maas.

    A firmware upgrade to the GC-35 full-color, graphical display control box provides enhanced slope accuracy data. “The cross slope value will be displayed even when the control box is set in elevation control mode on both sides, which takes the guess work out of knowing whether the cross slope is correct. Additionally, block slope calibration protects users from accidentally changing the slope sensor while the P-32 system is in operation,” said Maas.

  • Spectra Precision’s Latest Survey Receiver Uses Six GNSS Systems

    Spectra Precision’s Latest Survey Receiver Uses Six GNSS Systems

    Spectra-Precision-SP80-GNSS-Receiver-River-W

    Spectra Precision introduced today its next-generation Spectra Precision SP80 GNSS receiver. Designed to meet the evolving needs of the survey market, the new SP80 combines GNSS technology and a combination of communication capabilities with an ergonomic design, the company said. The SP80 is specifically designed for mainstream surveying and construction applications such as cadastral, topographic, control, stakeout and network RTK.

    Spectra Precision SP80 features Spectra Precision’s Z-Blade GNSS-centric technology running on a new-generation, 240-channel 6G chipset. The SP80 is capable of fully utilizing all six available GNSS systems (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS), but can also be configured to use only selected constellations in an RTK solution (GPS-only, GLONASS-only or BeiDou-only).The SP80 is also compliant with the new RTCM 3.2 standard, including the recently approved MSM RTCM messages, which means it supports all available GNSS corrections.

    SP80-GNSS-Front-with-Antenna-Pole-WThe extended communication capabilities of the SP80 receiver provide a combination of a 3.5G GSM/UMTS modem, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and an optional transmit UHF radio. The receiver’s built-in Wi-Fi and 3.5G modem can provide an Internet connection for RTK corrections and also send SMS or e-mails with system alerts. The SP80 features a unique anti-theft technology to safeguard the receiver and can detect if it is has been disturbed while in the field (for example, when operating as a GNSS base). The anti-theft protection feature informs the surveyor via SMS or e-mail if the SP80 receiver is moved and can provide its position to facilitate recovery.

    The Spectra Precision SP80 is rugged and waterproof, yet compact, lightweight and ergonomic for ease of use in the field, Spectra Precision said. When the UHF transmit radio module is used, its UHF antenna remains protected inside the rugged rod, extending the radio range performance. Powered with dual hot-swap batteries for typical all-day operation, the SP80 receiver is an ideal tool for any surveyor.

    “The Spectra Precision SP80 introduces several major enhancements and innovations, including the new 6G GNSS ASIC with enhanced Z-Blade technology, unique SMS and e-mail messaging and patented inside-the-rod mounted UHF antenna,” said Olivier Casabianca, business area director of Trimble’s Spectra Precision Division. “In addition, SP80 was designed as an extremely reliable receiver, making it suitable for a variety of challenging surveying projects.”

  • Trimble Adds Ultra High-Frequency RFID to Juno T41 Rugged Handhelds

    Trimble Adds Ultra High-Frequency RFID to Juno T41 Rugged Handhelds

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    Trimble has introduced the Juno T41 rugged handheld computer with integrated Ultra-High Frequency RFID capabilities. In addition to high-speed 1D/2D barcode imaging technology, smartphone capability and enhanced, real-time 1-2 meter GPS accuracy, the Juno T41 series now offers new models that provide more functionality and configuration choices for data collection and mobile workforce management, Trimble said.

    “Often the RFID tag is specifically used because the item being tracked is in difficult or harsh environments where a barcode won’t survive,” said Jim Sheldon, general manager of Trimble’s Mobile Computing Solutions Division. “The rugged design of this handheld computer is an ideal solution for reading RFID in outdoor and extreme situations.”

    The RFID capability can be combined with Enhanced GPS and/or smartphone connectivity so customers can choose a specific handheld model that meets their needs.

    The Juno T41 R will automatically recognize tags across a variety of frequencies and work with any size or style of RFID tag that is designed for customized solutions. UHF RFID is an increasingly commonplace technology using the 860 to 960 MHz frequency range.

    Using the latest EPCglobal Gen 2 RFID technology from Trimble’s ThingMagic Division, the device uses two different antenna ranges to read or recognize the unique identification of an asset anywhere in the world.

    • FCC Certified (North America): 902-928 MHz bands
    • ETSI Certified (EU): 865.6-867.6 MHz bands
    • ACMA Certified (AU/NZ): 920-926 MHz bands

    Trimble Juno T41 RFID handheld computers feature a 1-GHz processor and 512-MB RAM and 32-GB onboard storage with either Android 4.1 or Microsoft WEHH 6.5 operating systems. Other standard features include an 8-MP integrated camera, multi-touch capacitive 4.3-inch sunlight-readable display, all-day battery life and 2-4 meter GPS accuracy capability. Other features include:

    • Rapid-read, high-accuracy performance on multiple tags with multiple orientations, even in crowded conditions.
    • Consistent read-range over 3.5 meters for 5 cm2 (2″) UHF tags in unobstructed space.
    • Integrated antenna with the ability to transmit up to +30 dBm (1 Watt) power for demanding applications.
    • >Configurable performance settings and use-case parameters in the pre-loaded Trimble SearchLight application.
    • Software Development Kit to customize all settings including read-range, power-consumption and other features.

    The Juno T41 models are built to meet military-grade standards of ruggedness for drops, temperature, altitude, humidity extremes, vibration, chemical exposure and shock with either an IP65 or IP68 rating for water and dust.

  • New DX-200 Expands Robotic Working Range, Features Hybrid Versatility

    New DX-200 Expands Robotic Working Range, Features Hybrid Versatility

    DX_200_Application_Sok_1D64Sokkia Corporation is offering enhanced abilities and versatility to its DX series of total stations with the introduction of the DX-200 in the North American market.

    When configured for hybrid positioning, the DX-200 has the ability to use both GNSS positioning and optical positioning data simultaneously. The standard Sokkia Hybrid Robotic System includes the DX, GRX2 GNSS receiver and MESA large-screen tablet controller.

    “The DX-200 is ideal for the professional looking for a mid-range, auto-pointing total station that can become a full-robotic instrument with a simple firmware upgrade,” said Ray Kerwin, director of global surveying products. “Advanced functionality such as hybrid positioning can be added to the robotic unit, making the DX-200 a versatile system for multiple applications.”

    The DX-200 can be used with the RC-PR5 remote controller for increased Bluetooth wireless operating range. “The remote allows for rapid prism search and lock up to 2,000 feet (600 meters) away,” Kerwin said.

    “Hybrid positioning adds a new dimension of versatility,” Kerwin said. “When line-of-sight is blocked, for example, shots can be measured with the GNSS receiver, and the receiver can also be used for quick lock functionality.”

    Standard additional features of the DX series include Direct Aiming auto-collimation technology, TSshield security and maintenance technology, MAGNET integrated software onboard and Sokkia’s patented RED-tech reflectorless measurement system.

    The DX-200 is available in 1, 3 and 5 arc second accuracy models.

  • Applanix Conducts Successful Test Flight of Professional Mapping UAS

    Applanix Conducts Successful Test Flight of Professional Mapping UAS

    Applanix_UAV3

    Applanix Corporation and American Aerospace Advisors have completed a successful series of test flights of AAAI’s RS-16 platform equipped with Applanix’ DMS-UAV aerial photogrammetry payload. This is the first successful mission for a long-endurance UAS (unmanned aerial system) capable of producing professional-grade, directly georeferenced mapping imagery for civilian applications such as pipeline monitoring, power line and emergency response mapping.

    The RS-16 Unmanned Aircraft System equipped with the Applanix Direct Mapping Solution (DMS).
    The RS-16 Unmanned Aircraft System equipped with the Applanix Direct Mapping Solution (DMS).

    Tests were conducted over restricted airspace in the state of New Jersey. A joint team from Applanix and AAAI planned and flew a sequence of missions to evaluate the capabilities of the UAS. These include, critically, the ability to provide highly accurate, directly georeferenced and orthorectified aerial imagery without the need for ground control points or aerial triangulation calculations. The system, consisting of the airframe, its avionics, mobile ground control station and the digital mapping payload, performed according to expectations and successfully produced high-quality imagery.

    “Performing safe and successful missions with long endurance unmanned aircraft in civilian airspace are a challenge that goes far beyond selecting the right aircraft and payload,” said David Yoel, CEO of American Aerospace Advisors. “Working with Applanix, we have produced an integrated system that is designed from the ground up with civilian mapping operations in mind. We believe this system has the capability to transform the aerial mapping industry.”

    The Applanix R16 in flight.
    The Applanix RS-16 in flight.

    The RS-16 DMS is a complete, operational system capable of conducting large area operations within the National Airspace System in the United States, and in other jurisdictions as local regulations allow. Within the USA, AAAI is engaged with several of the recently announced UAS research and test sites, which operate under the auspices of the FAA to develop the certification and operational requirements necessary to safely integrate UAS into the national airspace.

    The GNSS-Inertial systems at the core of Applanix’ DMS-UAV aerial mapping payload uses commercial inertial technologies that are offered globally.

    “The market for airborne imaging systems is in a state of rapid change,” said Joe Hutton, director of Inertial Technology and Airborne Products at Applanix. “Developments in imaging technology, in processing capability, and in the nature of inertial sensors, make a directly georeferenced UAS a reality today, where it would have been inconceivable even a few years ago. Our ability to take our established market-leading manned solutions, and integrate the technology successfully into an unmanned platform, speaks  volumes for the engineering expertise of Applanix and AAAI.”

  • Topcon Unveils 2D, 3D Excavator Control Systems

    Topcon Unveils 2D, 3D Excavator Control Systems

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    Topcon Positioning Group announces the addition of two new indicate control systems to its excavator control system lineup — the X-32 and X-33. The systems feature Topcon’s new GX-30 control box and TS-i3 sensors.

    The GX-30 features a full-color touchscreen display. The TS-i3 sensors have no moving components, offer single and dual-axis measurement modes, and include convenient LED status indicators.

    “The X-32 is a versatile and easy-to-use 2D excavator system that includes technology not available on other, more expensive systems,” said Kris Maas, manager for machine control product marketing.

    X-32_cab_Topcon-W“The X-32 is an excavator grade indication system to fit any budget. With this new system, you have the flexibility to use a wide array of references from which to work: Existing surface, a hub, previous cut, single slopes and dual slopes with the use of a compass or rotating laser. It’s as easy as choosing your reference and entering a cut and/or slope depth,” Maas said.

    “The X-32 allows an operator to work faster, with consistency and greater degree of accuracy, and promotes a safer work site by keeping a grade checker out of the trench.”

    Additionally, Maas said, “The X-32 grows as your needs expand because it’s easily upgradeable to a 3D system.”

    “The X-33 adds Topcon’s industry-leading GNSS satellite technology to create a highly productive 3D indicate excavator grade control system,” Maas said. The system’s MC-i3 GNSS receiver with Vanguard technology provides “maximum flexibility in satellite signal tracking.  Additionally, the MC-i3 is Sitelink3D ‘ready’ for integration into Topcon’s real-time 3D management solution,” he said.

    The new 3D system is designed to establish grade faster and ensure the operator stays on grade. “The system eliminates over excavation and controls material usage, allowing the user to ‘see’ the exact position of the machine on site and the bucket position at all times,” Maas said. When detailed information is required, the operator can select to visualize the plan, profile, or sectional view and use the dual grade indicators for elevation control.

  • Trimble Updates Cloud-Based Software, App for Wastewater Management

    Trimble has introduced a new version of its smart water and wastewater management software — Trimble Connect version 1.5. The latest release of the cloud-based software includes a suite of applications that help water and wastewater utilities to deploy smart meters, repair leaks and reduce non-revenue water (NRW), locate and map critical infrastructure using geographic information system (GIS) technology, extend the life of aging assets, and improve worker safety and productivity.

    Trimble Connect software version 1.5 can be configured and deployed quickly on a variety of rugged mobile devices, laptops, tablets and smartphones to automate field workflows and eliminate paper-based maps and field work tracking and management, the company said.

    Over the last decade, water and wastewater utilities have made investments in GIS mapping systems and asset maintenance management databases to manage their pipes and assets that are installed over large geographic areas. A large number of these utilities have implemented the Esri ArcGIS as their primary GIS mapping system. Maintenance of the information is an ongoing task and requires that information about the location of assets and the work performed on these facilities is accurately collected in the field. Trimble Connect helps with this challenge by integrating Esri ArcGIS technology and allowing utilities to view and update maps, assign work, manage workflows and collect field data and mapping updates using a variety of mobile devices. When used with a Trimble GeoExplorer series or Trimble Juno T41G series handheld, workers can map assets with up to decimeter accuracy in the field, helping improve the quality of their critical infrastructure GIS and asset management data.

    Trimble Connect integrates the latest Esri ArcGIS Server, mobile and ArcGIS Online map services. The software is designed to automate a variety of specific water and wastewater industry workflows through individual apps offered within the product. The new version provides standard core apps including Map Book, Meter Changeout, Leak Repair, Manhole Inspector, and Pipeline Mapper. In addition, an optional partner app developed for hydrant and valve inspection, called AFC Mapper, can be purchased from American Flow Control (AFC) and their distributors coupled with a Trimble rugged handheld.

    In addition to the standard core apps, Trimble Connect version 1.5 includes:

    • Multi-mobile platform support including Apple iOS, Android, Windows Mobile and Windows 7/8 devices
    • Offline support for Android, Windows Mobile and Windows 7/8
    • Esri ArcGIS based Web, mobile GIS mapping and ArcGIS Online basemaps
    • Work management support for single and multi-asset work orders
    • Business rules for customer mobile form design
    • Support for over-the-air network data and background map updates
    • Advanced spatial asset searching
  • Topcon’s Hybrid Positioning Combines GNSS, Optical Measurement

    Topcon’s Hybrid Positioning Combines GNSS, Optical Measurement

    Photo: Topcon Positioning Group
    Photo: Topcon Positioning Group

    Topcon Positioning Group announces a new technology — Hybrid Positioning — that increases efficiencies and improves productivity on job sites, regardless of conditions, terrain or location. Hybrid Positioning is enabled through the Topcon Magnet software suite, a Topcon enterprise solution for the geomatics industry.

    The new Topcon technology allows precise positioning professionals in the survey, construction, civil engineering and GIS industries to simultaneously connect to GNSS signals and standard robotic measurements on a single rover pole.

    “This extremely clever and unique combination of GNSS and optical measurement is aimed squarely at improving a company’s profitability by allowing the use of GNSS positioning and optical positioning data at the same time,” said Ewout Korpershoek, chief marketing officer of Topcon Positioning Group. “When used with Topcon Magnet software, Hybrid Positioning improves field measurement efficiency at every phase of a project. With Hybrid Positioning technology, the key is versatility. For example, when line-of-sight is blocked, shots can be easily and quickly measured with the GNSS receiver. Now it is so easy to combine a standard Topcon robot and GNSS receiver to guarantee an integrated solution for the highest performance and productivity.

    Photo: Topcon Positioning Group
    Photo: Topcon Positioning Group

    “Combine these two proven solutions, plus advanced Magnet Field software, and you have Hybrid Positioning technology,” Korpershoek said. “By utilizing both GNSS and optical measurement, any project can be completed faster and with unsurpassed accuracy. By adding Magnet cloud-connected data workflow, truly outstanding increases in productivity and cost savings are assured.”

    The new technological breakthrough has four key components: Hybrid Lock, Hybrid Resection, Hybrid Switch and Auto-localization.

    Hybrid Lock allows accurate prism tracking by simply turning the instrument toward the prism location. Hybrid Resection ensures quick job site setup, as well as establishing RTK and geodetic coordinates. Hybrid Switch ensures a quick changeover from GNSS to optical measurement with a single touch. Auto-localization utilizes Bing Maps background, multi-point localization and works with RTK and NMEA positioning.

    “Regardless of job site location or adverse conditions or terrain, Hybrid Positioning systems will perform faster in the field than other instruments and with more versatility than an RTK-only system,” Korpershoek said.