At Intergeo 2017, Juniper System Ltd.’s Simon Bowe gives GPS World a rundown on two of the company’s latest products: the Mesa 2 tablet and Geode real-time sub-meter GNSS receiver. Learn about the features of the two products.
Tag: tablet
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TerraGo Edge version 4 uses iOS, Android flexibility
The profession of land surveying has taken advantage of many technological location and measuring advancements, yet most of the data collectors used today are still based upon aging proprietary data collectors and even older operating system platforms.A common tool for most surveyors is the smartphone or tablet, so TerraGo developed an application that takes advantage of the nimble programming of iOS and Android.
The TerraGo Edge 4 mapping application utilizes all the best features of today’s mobile technology, according to TerraGo. Besides an intuitive interface, Edge 4 allows users to customize how their data is collected and presented, including overlays on Google and Apple maps.
Depending on the user’s needs, Edge 4 can use the device’s Bluetooth connection to an external GNSS receiver for greater accuracy.
Sharing is also easy with publishing and ArcGIS exporting plug-ins, all in a mobile environment most users are familiar with using every day, the company said.
GPS and GIS features include:
- Sub-meter and centimeter precision
- Real-time GPS monitor
- Full NMEA GPS metadata display and capture
- GPS accuracy settings
- RTK support
- Dynamic BT device list
- Auto-record GPS Lines and Polygons
- Import and export Esri file geodatabase, Shapefile, KML, CSV, JSON
- OGC GeoPackage (SQLite) vector and raster
Learn more on the TerraGo Edge features page.
TerraGo Edge version 4.0 offers a completely redesigned app based on customer feedback, field user observations and task-centered design cycles, as well as a host of new features including the addition of Google and Apple basemaps.
“The new interface is so much more than just a ‘look and feel’ change; it will allow us to more efficiently execute projects and improve data quality in less taps and less time, which is a force multiplier when you’re talking about thousands of data points per day,” said Scott Riccardella, director of oil and gas business development at Structural Integrity Associates. “Having the right tool is essential to getting any job done right, and TerraGo is ahead of the game when it comes to giving my field teams the best possible tool for the fastest, most accurate and highest-quality asset inspections.”
“We have completely rebuilt the mobile user interface from the ground up to improve all aspects of the app’s performance, and while users will notice the stunning graphics and aesthetics, the real value is that the feature or data you need is always just one tap away,” said Dave Basil, vice president of product development at TerraGo. “By incorporating the latest native design elements like tabbed navigation, responsive split screens and adaptive list views, we found ways to improve the speed and efficiency of the work our customers do every day.”
TerraGo Edge’s latest features include:
- Reimagined user experience: Rebuild of the Edge mobile user interface incorporating both years of user feedback from the field and interactive design cycles with live users.
- Google and Apple maps: Standard, satellite and hybrid maps are available for data collection and are paired with new precise location pin icons for a cutting edge data collection experience.
- Tabbed app navigation: With the new, easier to reach tabbed navigation, it’s easier to collect data in the field.
- Quick capture button: Allows users to create notes, complete forms, take photos, drop points and draw lines/polygons from virtually anywhere in the app, with only one tap.
- Unlimited attachments: Now users can attach as many forms, photos or videos as you would like to a single note.
- Responsive split screen view: When holding a tablet or larger mobile device in landscape mode, new split screens will automatically allow userse to view lists/maps or lists/details on one screen.
- Detailed list view: The new detailed list view shows more of the important note data making it easier to find notes, and enables one-tap actions directly from the list.
- One-tap forms and maps lists: Now users can view all the form templates, and instantly create notes using them, or view all your offline maps and directly access them, from one master list.
- Precise location: Users can capture a more accurate location when creating notes by using the center crosshair target and coordinate level accuracy for dropping points and drawing lines/polygons.
- Filter by map extent: This new feature keeps the notes on a map and in a list dynamically in sync.
- Quick basemap preview: Preview online and offline basemaps in real-time from the selection screen to choose a map with one tap and no toggling back and forth.
- Arc2Edge plug-in: ArcGIS Desktop users can directly share maps and features with mobile users, allowing them to roundtrip updates and new features from the field back to ArcGIS.
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Panasonic collaborates with u-blox on RTK GNSS tablet
Panasonic Corporation, in collaboration with u-blox, has launched a tablet-using centimeter-level RTK GNSS technology.
Toughpad, the newly born version of Panasonic’s professional grade notebooks family, is specifically designed for precision agriculture, machine control and robotic guidance applications in harsh environments and conditions. Embedded in the tablet is a u-blox NEO-M8 GNSS receiver module delivering high integrity and precision in demanding applications world-wide.
The Toughpad FZ uses a u-blox NEO-M8 GNSS receiver module. Photo: Panasonic First successfully tested for collecting snow in Hokkaido, the Toughpad tablet uses Panasonic’s own satellite positioning technology combining a satellite radio receiver module, wireless WAN, and a single band real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS receiver connected to an external antenna. The system enables high-precision positioning down to centimeter level in open sky conditions.
“We needed a high quality, reliable and robust GNSS module for this tablet designed to be used in rugged environments,” said Tetsuya Sakamoto, general manager, mobile solutions business division, development center at Panasonic Corporation. “The NEO-M8 from u-blox was therefore the right choice.”
“It was very exciting to collaborate with a market leader such as Panasonic in developing a product that would guarantee precise positioning for a wide range of professional applications,” said Tesshu Naka, country manager at u-blox Japan. “This implementation will support the global expansion of the high precision market where u-blox is a key player.”
Toughpad was first launched in Japan.
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Laser Technology offers TruPoint 300 total station
The TruPoint 300 total station by Laser Technology. Laser Technology Inc. (LTI) has released its TruPoint 300 for field data collection and mapping, as well as producing +/–1 millimeter range accuracy. It is a fully integrated laser with vertical and horizontal angle encoders capable of producing 3D, survey-grade measurements.
The TruPoint 300 is LTI’s first phase-technology product with a laser diode that emits light pulses with a distinct wavelength and pulse repetition frequency that obtains millimeter accuracy.
The fully integrated MapStar Angle Technology make the Trupoint 300 suitable for GIS, incident mapping, crush analysis, surveying, electric utilities, architecture and construction.
It will measure the distance between two remote points and has onboard solutions for volume, height, and 2D and 3D area, the company said. Professionals can navigate through measured data, routines, and menus with a full-color touchscreen.
In addition, the laser features an integrated red-dot visual indicator and crosshair with four-power zoom camera, which makes taking measurements easier, especially indoors, LTI said. The unit will also capture a photo of every shot taken that includes raw measurement values and onboard calculations.
Both photos and data can be stored in a CAD-friendly format for professional documentation. With Bluetooth and WLAN, professionals can communicate with apps and transfer X-, Y-, Z-point data files with images.
Several measurement and mapping apps designed by LTI are expected to be released in the coming months. Besides professional-grade lasers for mapping, LTI also provides a line of recreational rangefinders by Bushnell for golfing and hunting.
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Handheld launches rugged Windows tablet Algiz 8X
Handheld Group, a manufacturer of rugged mobile computers and tablets, has launched the Algiz 8X ultra-rugged tablet computer. The Algiz 8X is built for field workers who require a powerful, portable computer for mobile tasks.
The Algiz 8X offers GPS and GLONASS positioning via u-blox, along with an 8-inch projective capacitive touchscreen that is ultra-bright and built for outdoor use. Enabling glove mode or rain mode allows for operation in changing weather. The chemically strengthened glass survives an impact test in which a 64-gram steel ball is dropped on the screen 10 times from a height of 1.2 meters. The Algiz 8X also comes with an optional active capacitive stylus.
“The new Algiz 8X is the most compact and ergonomic Windows tablet we have ever developed,” said Johan Hed, director of product management.”We’ve pushed the limits of modern field technology with this product, fulfilling customers’ needs for powerful computing, mobility, outstanding screen performance and battery life. We made no compromises.”
Built-in features
The Algiz 8X rugged Windows tablet by Handheld Group. Photo: Handheld Group The Algiz 8X comes standard with Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB to meet the needs of enterprise customers who value long-term stability. Other features include:
- u-blox GPS and GLONASS
- WLAN a/b/g/n/ac
- BT 4.2 LE
- A rear-facing 8 MP camera with autofocus and LED flash
- 4G/LTE
- Expansion options
The Algiz 8X offers LAN port, COM port or barcode scanner options. It also features a “backpack” system that allows users to add custom features and electronics.
Ruggedness
The Algiz 8X is rigorously tested for use in tough outdoor and industrial environments. It’s IP65-rated for dust and water ingression and meets stringent MIL-STD-810G military standards for:
- Operating temperature: -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F) — Method 501.5, Procedure II
- Storage temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F) — Method 501.5/502.5, Procedure I
- Drops: 26 drops from 1.22 meters (4 feet) — Method 516.6, Procedure IV
- Vibration: Method 514.6, Procedures I & II
- Humidity: 0-95% (non-condensing) — Method 507.5
- Altitude: 4,572 meters (15,000 feet) — Method 500.5, Procedure I
Orders can be placed immediately. Units will be in stock in March 2017.
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Datumate unveils DatuFly, professional imagery app for drones
Datumate has released a new tablet app for drone flight planning and automated, high-resolution photo-shooting. The DatuFly app saves up to 80 percent of field surveying time and eliminates follow-up site visits, according to the company.
“DatuFly automates the entire field surveying process, while keeping field work simple and safe,” said Tal Meirzon, Datumate CEO. “Ease of use and survey-grade results makes DatuFly a valuable tool for any surveyor and drone operator. The bundle of Drone, DatuFly app and DatuGram 3D photogrammetry software forms the ideal site surveying solution for professional results.”
A friendly, wizard-type user interface makes it easy to select the job type and the required outputs to achieve best results. The area of interest is instantly marked on the map, including complex polygons, and the drone is ready for launch.
Flight and aerial photography, vertical or oblique, are automatic and optimized per job type, such as topography, stockpiles and roads. Mission progress is constantly monitored on the tablet screen, including flight time, distance, waypoints and the required number of batteries.
Once a battery is exhausted, the drone automatically returns for a battery exchange and resumes flight and photo-shooting from where it left off.
The DatuFly image-taking plan is executed based on the best-practice requirements of DatuGram 3D, Datumate’s field-to-plan software that automates surveyors’ field and office work, ensuring survey-grade accuracy, high quality and quick results.
DatuFly is compatible with DJI drones and is available on AppStore for iPads. An Android app will be available in the Google Play store in October 2016.
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Satlab Geosolutions’ RTK Handheld uses tablet or phone as display
Swedish-based survey and GIS equipment maker Satlab Geosolutions is offering a multi-purpose handheld that sends centimeter-level NMEA position data to the user’s tablet or smartphone.The SLC RTK handheld brings professional high-precision positioning in a new design concept with Bluetooth connectivity for Android, Windows and iOS Bluetooth low-energy (BLE) smart devices, according to the company.
Alternatively, it can be used as a fixed sensor for any compatible NMEA driven positioning application.
The design includes a mounting plate to attach the user’s tablet device so it acts as the SLC’s display. Connectivity also is available via a USB/RS232 port. With a built-in wireless modem and optional remote antenna and pole- or fixed-mount accessories, the SLC can be configured as a sensor for machine control or other mobile applications.
SLC is flexible — it can be paired with data-collection software running on Windows, Android or iOS BLE with compatible applications. Its RTK positioning information can be used in numerous markets including land surveying, high-accuracy GIS, web-based facility management, utilities, pipelines, precise farming, hydrography, geophysics or aeronautics. With 32-GB internal memory, the SLC is also able to record RAW data to be used for post-processed applications.
The SLC has a built-in lithium ion battery and GNSS antenna for up to 12 hours of portable operation. It includes a Telit 3.5G GSM modem for operation as an RTK base or rover, transmitting or receiving corrections from NTRIP networks or via Satlab’s free Internet RTK service. Satlab Internet RTK allows users to stream corrections via IP to any of three Satlab servers around the world; any Satlab rover device can then connect to that same IP connection to receive full GNSS constellation corrections.
“Our new Scandinavian-designed SLC handheld is a different concept, offering RTK centimeter-level positioning at an incredible price in a flexible form factor,” commented Bjorn Agardh, CEO of Satlab. “With our simple SLC Toolbox software utility, users set up the SLC once, and it remains configured every time it’s used.”
The SLC comes in two configurations: as a handheld in a soft case with two tablet/panel mounting plates and a charging USB cable; or bundled with external geodetic antenna, cable and pole mount.
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The Hottest Mapping Trends
Live from ESRI in San Diego
Focus on using RTK on mobile devices (iOS, Android)
Sponsored by: NavCom
Broadcast Date: Thursday, July 17, 2014
Topic: Using your iOS/Android Smartphone or Tablet with High-Precision GNSS Receivers.
Moderator: Alan Cameron, Group Publisher, GPS World & Geospatial Solutions
Keynote speaker: Eric Gakstatter, Editor, Survey Scene Newsletter
Summary: The mobile device market has been in crazy-mode for the past two years. Every month, a new smartphone or tablet is introduced, giving geospatial more choices than ever before about what they can take into the field. A $200 7″ tablet? An iPad? A $1,200 ruggedized tablet? A Galaxy III smartphone? The mobile device smorgasbord is incredible. How do these devices behave as GIS data collection devices? Do they interface to high-precision GNSS receivers and other instruments? What are other companies using? Join us for a look at the benefits and pitfalls of using consumer-grade mobile devices for professional geospatial applications. -
RTK on Your Smartphone or Tablet
Sponsored by: NavCom
Broadcast date: Thursday, August 14, 2014
Moderator: Tracy Cozzens, Managing Editor, GPS World and Geospatial Solutions
Speaker: Eric Gakstatter, Editor, Survey Scene Newsletter
Summary: The availability of small RTK GNSS receivers, wireless Bluetooth connectivity, and the proliferation of publicly-available RTK bases provide an environment in which you can fully leverage the richness of centimeter-level, horizontal and vertical data. Learn how to adapt to and benefit from the dynamic mobile device market through a step-by-step demonstration. The method does not use the internal receiver of the tablet or smartphone, but takes advantage of some professional-grade RTK receivers on the market that make it easy for users to interface their various mobile devices to their receivers. Join us for a look at the benefits and pitfalls of using consumer-grade mobile devices for professional geospatial applications.
Download a PDF of the webinar slides -
BYOD GPS Gets Real: Lessons Learned with the New Rules of GPS Data Collection
Broadcast Date: April 14, 2016
On-Demand Available Until: April 14, 2017
Sponsor: TerraGo
Summary: Our expert speaker panel examines how five organizations from five industries (oil & gas, engineering, water utility, transportation and natural resources) made the switch from GPS handhelds to smartphones and tablets for their field data collection needs.
Speakers: Michael Gundling and Bryan Burns, TerraGo -
eyesMap3D software provides high-quality 3D models
3D model created using eyesMap3D software. Technology company eCapture has launched a new software program, eyesMap3D, to generate accurate 3D models and point clouds, measured directly from images.
EyesMap3D allows users to create high-density points clouds with textures achieving a realistic 3D model appearance. In addition, eyesMap3D is able to measure accurately on the images, generate true orthophotos, and geo-reference and scale the results.
eyesMap3D users can use their cameras, mobile phone or camera drone to capture images. It is compatible with most popular software packages on the market.
The goal of the company is to allow the user to easily generate and work with 3D models and photogrammetric tools, while maintaining data quality.
In 2015, eCapture launched the eyesMap tablet for modeling 3D scenes indoors and outdoors. The EyesMap tablet is a versatile instrument for users who needs results directly while working in the field.
eyesMap3D software is offering three licenses: educational, public organizations and business. The software can be downloaded from the eCapture website.
3D model of small object (a bracelet) made using eyesMap3D software. -
Webinar explores BYOD for field data collection
A GPS World webinar on April 14 explores how five organizations made the switch to using their own tablets and smartphones for field data collection (also known as bring your own device, or BYOD).
In BYOD GPS Gets Real: Lessons Learned with the New Rules of GPS Data Collection, TerraGo’s Michael Gundling and David Basil will discuss case studies from five industries — oil & gas, engineering, water utility, transportation and natural resources.
Lance Fugate of Enmapp based in Calgary inspects pipelines using TerraGo Edge on iPads. Webinar participants will learn about and benefit from the real-world challenges faced during the five deployments of BYOD GPS field data-collection solutions. These customers and projects span very different industries, working conditions and requirements for GPS field data collection. Each offers a unique perspective based on their requirements and ultimately their approach to using smartphones and tablets for GPS-powered asset inspections, surveys, field service and remote workforce management.
- The City of Sebring Water Utility faced challenges with field crew use of CAD diagrams, as well as obtaining RTK accuracy on iPads. Read more about the Sebring project in this article from our March issue.
- The State of Louisiana needed to complete more than 4,000 miles of annual levee inspections while syncing field data from tablets to the cloud. Read more about the project.
- Kleinfelder engineers needed to shift to real-time GPS on tablets so they could eliminate four hours per day of post-field processing, and bring projects in faster and under budget.
- Empire Electric needed a method for customers to approve GPS-tagged work orders in real-time from the job site to avoid delays and lower costs.
- Enmapp needed to cut pipeline inspection hardware and labor costs in the face of the oil industry’s low-price and margin-challenged cost environment.
Register today for the free webinar.
