GPS World

Tag: Topcon

  • Topcon’s new concrete paving system uses ‘millimeter GPS technology’

    Topcon’s new concrete paving system uses ‘millimeter GPS technology’

    ZPS_Topcon_Field-WTopcon Positioning Group has launched a new system for automated concrete paving — the ZPS system — with the new Z-Robot and Z-Stack sensor.

    Using enhanced Topcon “millimeter GPS technology,” the ZPS system is designed to bring unmatched accuracy to concrete paving with a fraction of the hardware required for a traditional local positioning system.

    The new Z-Robot is an advanced robotic total station with integrated Z-beam laser technology. The Z-Robot is designed to provide a hybrid function of high-precision, optically based vertical accuracy control and the convenience of Z-beam laser positioning to maintain that accuracy across the paver.

    “The ZPS system’s self-leveling Z-Robot cuts setup time in half compared with previous concrete paving methods,” said Murray Lodge, senior vice president and general manager of the Construction Business Unit. “With traditional systems, you need multiple, expensive robotic total stations to control the paver at any given time and at least another complete set of instruments for downrange transition. With the ZPS system, only one Z-Robot controls the paver — increasing productivity and profitability, and dramatically lowering the cost of the solution compared to LPS.”

    ZPS_concretepaving-Topcon-WOn board the paver, the ZPS system uses the new Topcon Z-Stack modular-designed system that seamlessly integrates GPS, optical targeting, and Z-beam reception into one unit by interlocking the required sensing technologies in one rugged “stack.”

    “The Z-Stack sensor is revolutionary,” said Lodge. “It combines time-proven Topcon positioning technologies into one multifunctional, consolidated and complete system that provides better accuracies and more efficient paving than ever before. The system requires no separate base station and only one cable needed for power and connectivity.

    “The system also offers a wider working area, with a range of up to 150 more feet than with traditional methods — minimizing instrument transitions,” Lodge said.

  • Topcon offers Bentley reality modeling with UAS solutions

    Topcon Positioning Group introduced Topcon ContextCapture, powered by Bentley Systems, a reality modeling software solution that will be offered with Topcon UAS (unmanned aerial systems).

    Context Capture software by Topcon.
    Context Capture software by Topcon.

    The system is designed for mapping, construction and surveying professionals to quickly turn simple photographs and or point-cloud data into true-to-life, highly detailed 3D models for use throughout a project lifecycle.

    “The offering will include Topcon ContextCapture Standard and Topcon ContextCapture Advanced,” said Charles Rihner, vice president of the Topcon GeoPositioning Solutions Group. “The standard package will be bundled with Falcon 8 and Sirius Basic/Pro and allows operators to process data from these UAS into textured 3D reality meshes, point clouds and orthophotos. ContextCapture Advanced allows users to process data from any UAS. It also includes ContextCapture Editor, which enables operators to take advantage of all project data by integrating reality meshes and point clouds, into infrastructure workflows. The result is access to a wide variety of reality modeling tools to help increase productivity.”

    The ContextCapture Advanced integration includes computer-aided design (CAD), inspection, GIS, civil engineering, and survey workflows on desktop and mobile devices, in multiple formats.

    “This represents the next step in the Topcon and Bentley collaboration to advance the concept of constructioneering — allowing users to start from a reality-captured survey context and leverage and update their digital engineering models throughout the construction process, and finally deliver the as-built infrastructure in real time,” Rihner said.

    “We are excited to bring to market this new joint offering that enables greater efficiency and productivity in the global construction market,” said Phil Christensen, Bentley vice president of reality modeling. “Our reality modeling solution for mapping, construction, and surveying professionals will enable them to quickly turn UAS imagery into engineering-ready 3D reality models that can be used immediately and updated throughout the construction lifecycle. Since we announced our constructioneering partnership last November, we see this as only one of many new integrations between Bentley and Topcon that will enable better project outcomes.”

  • Topcon offer Bentley reality modeling with UAS solutions

    Topcon offer Bentley reality modeling with UAS solutions

    Topcon Positioning Group introduces Topcon ContextCapture, powered by Bentley Systems, a reality modeling software solution that will be offered with Topcon UAS (unmanned aerial systems).

    The system is designed for mapping, construction and surveying professionals to quickly turn simple photographs and or point-cloud data into true-to-life, highly detailed 3D models for use throughout a project lifecycle.

    “The offering will include Topcon ContextCapture Standard and Topcon ContextCapture Advanced,” said Charles Rihner, vice president of the Topcon GeoPositioning Solutions Group. “The standard package will be bundled with Falcon 8 and Sirius Basic/Pro and allows operators to process data from these UAS into textured 3D reality meshes, point clouds and orthophotos. ContextCapture Advanced allows users to process data from any UAS. It also includes ContextCapture Editor, which enables operators to take advantage of all project data by integrating reality meshes and point clouds, into infrastructure workflows. The result is access to a wide variety of reality modeling tools to help increase productivity.”

    Context Capture software by Topcon.
    Context Capture software by Topcon.

    The ContextCapture Advanced integration includes computer-aided design (CAD), inspection, GIS, civil engineering, and survey workflows on desktop and mobile devices, in multiple formats.

    “This represents the next step in the Topcon and Bentley collaboration to advance the concept of constructioneering — allowing users to start from a reality-captured survey context and leverage and update their digital engineering models throughout the construction process, and finally deliver the as-built infrastructure in real time,” Rihner said.

    “We are excited to bring to market this new joint offering that enables greater efficiency and productivity in the global construction market,” said Phil Christensen, Bentley vice president of reality modeling. “Our reality modeling solution for mapping, construction, and surveying professionals will enable them to quickly turn UAS imagery into engineering-ready 3D reality models that can be used immediately and updated throughout the construction lifecycle. Since we announced our constructioneering partnership last November, we see this as only one of many new integrations between Bentley and Topcon that will enable better project outcomes.”

  • Topcon updates 2D indicate system for excavation, Wi-Fi for imaging

    Topcon Positioning Group is providing an update to its X-52 entry-level machine control system for excavation. The 2D system is designed to offer cost-effective indicate grade control.

    MC-X1_Topcon_W“The X-52 system features the all-new MC-X1 controller, which offers compatibility with all brands and models of excavators,” said Kris Maas, director of construction product management. “Operators with limited exposure to machine control systems will find the system intuitive and very easy to use. Its reliable and rugged TS-i3 tilt sensors detect the precise positioning of the boom, stick and bucket at all times.”

    The system is designed to provide a forward-thinking investment for contractors who want to enhance its capabilities in the future. “Later this year, the X-52 will be upgradeable to a full 3D system with GNSS, which allows it to expand along with business needs.

    “The X-52 not only allows operators to work faster and with better accuracy, but also promotes a safer work site by keeping grade checkers out of the trenches,” Maas said.

    The system is designed to pair with the GX-55 touchscreen control box to offer sunlight-readable indicate grade reference in any climate condition.

    Wi-Fi for Imaging Station

    DS-200i_Topcon_field-W

    Topcon also added advanced connectivity options to its DS-200i direct aiming imaging station. The DS-200i, now with Wi-Fi access, provides real-time, touchscreen video and photo imaging to capture measured positions.

    “The ultra-wide 5 MP on-board camera provides photo documentation in the field and can now transmit live video using either LongLink or high-speed WLAN as an access point, which allows the FC-5000 or Windows 10 tablets to easily connect,” said Ray Kerwin, director of global surveying products.

    “The addition of Wi-Fi connectivity offers convenience to the powerful video capabilities of the DS-200i. The system allows for non-prism measurements to be aimed and measured to remote objects — saving time without having to return to the tripod,” Kerwin said. “The live video allows a remote user to know exactly what is being measured.”

    Additional standard features include Hybrid Positioning functionality, Xpointing technology for quick and reliable prism acquisition, TSshield telematics security and maintenance technology, and a rating of IP65 for water-resistant construction.

  • Topcon GNSS receiver integrates with range of applications

    Topcon GNSS receiver integrates with range of applications

    Topcon Positioning Group has released a new modular GNSS receiver system, the MR-2. The system combines all current and planned constellation tracking with a comprehensive set of communication interfaces to service any precision application requiring high-performance real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning and heading determination.

    Topcon MR-2 GNSS receiver.
    Topcon MR-2 GNSS receiver. Photo: Topcon 

    The MR-2 can perform as a mobile RTK base station, marine navigation receiver, mobile mapping device and as a GNSS receiver for agricultural, industrial, military or construction applications.

    “The MR-2 delivers navigation support for a wide-range of applications,” says Jason Hallett, vice president of Topcon global product management. “It is an ideal component for OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) needing a custom, high-accuracy modular design for easy integration.”

    “The MR-2 is also designed as a ‘future-proof’ system,” Hallett says, “meaning it tracks all current and planned constellations, making it a smart investment in the expanding GNSS environment.”

    The unit housing is water and dust-proof and built to withstand harsh environments with superior vibration and shock tolerances, he adds.

    Using Topcon HD2 heading determination technology, the MR-2’s dual antennas compute high-performance heading and inclination determination alongside the RTK positioning engine for precise navigation and guidance applications.

    “The MR-2 also provides a variety of communication interfaces such as Ethernet, serial, and CAN, allowing for easy integration into any application,” Hallett says.

    The system also offers best-in-class multipath rejection, and using Topcon Quartz Lock Loop technology can operate without disturbances in high-vibration environments.

  • Topcon's new ES series total station has advanced data-transfer functionality

    Topcon_ES-60_Field-WTopcon Positioning Group announces the release of the latest addition to its ES total station series in the Americas, the ES-60. Featuring advanced reflectorless capabilities and an upgraded data-transfer functionality — the new ES-60 is designed to provide an entry-level total station option with a fast and powerful EDM.

    “The ES-60 is an excellent solution for customers looking for the dependability and accuracy of the ES series in an entry-level package,” said Ray Kerwin, director of global surveying products. “Incorporating all the time-honored expectations of the ES series along with a reflectorless EDM of up to 350 m, and 4000 m with a prism — the instrument also offers a USB option for quick and easy data transfer.”

    The ES-60 offers 2- and 5-arc second accuracies. “It’s ideal for land surveying, topography, construction layout, foundations and exterior job sites as well as as-built projects,” said Kerwin.

    Additional features include 10,000 points of memory, a battery life of up to 15 hours, dual axis compensation, a waterproof design and a laser pointer.

  • Topcon announces enhancements to UAS packages

    topcon_sirius-packages-o

    Topcon Positioning Group announces the release of two new mapping kits for its Sirius Pro fixed-wing unmanned aerial system (UAS). The kits are designed to produce the most accurate solutions for automated mapping of construction sites, building facades, mines, quarries, disaster areas — and more without regard to terrain.

    Both systems include an enhanced MAVinci Desktop Flight Planning software upgrade.

    The first new package — Sirius UAS City Mapping Kit — includes a Fuji X-M1 8 mm lens designed to better capture urban surroundings.

    “It allows the image capture of vertical facades such as buildings, infrastructure and construction sites,” said Charles Rihner, vice president of the Topcon GeoPositioning Solutions Group. “The upgraded flight planning software optimizes the planning, preparation and processing to automatically produce a textured 3D model. Additionally, the kit allows the acquisition of 3D models and orthophotos when flying below 50 m altitude,” he said.

    The second new package — the Sirius UAS High Resolution Mapping Kit — comes with a Fuji X-M1 27-millimeter lens. “This package allows the collection of images at the highest possible resolution for applications such as construction site monitoring, survey and mapping topography,” Rihner said. “It allows operators to obtain higher resolution images at the same altitude as compared with a standard lens.”

  • Topcon, Bentley Systems integrate Magnet 4.0 and ProjectWise

    Topcon_Bentley_screen-W

    Topcon Positioning Group and Bentley Systems have announced a new level of direct communication between Bentley’s design applications and Topcon mobile work force products with the upcoming Magnet 4.0 release.

    With the direct communication from Magnet Enterprise to Bentley’s ProjectWise, users of Topcon’s family of Magnet and 3D-MC software solutions can, while working in the field, access or receive i-models created by Bentley’s OpenRoads design modeling technology.

    Furthermore, the survey data and as-built conditions captured by Topcon’s field devices can be brought back into Bentley’s design applications using the same Magnet to ProjectWise direct connection.

    Topcon_Bentley_man-at-desk-W“The direct connection to Bentley’s ProjectWise in Magnet Enterprise allows project managers to distribute i-models directly to their Topcon field devices,” said Jason Hallett, Topcon vice president of global product management. “With this drag and drop functionality, i-models from ProjectWise easily move from the Magnet Enterprise Data Manager to your mobile work force.”

    The integration will allow for direct import and export of i-models in Magnet Field and Magnet Office products.

    “With the simplified workflow from ProjectWise to machines with a Sitelink3D connection from Magnet Office or Enterprise, updated models can be quickly sent to a machine, reducing the chance of rework and ensuring the most current data can be sent to project teams,” Hallett said.

    With the upcoming release, users will be able to deliver any Magnet project files as i-models into ProjectWise for the purpose of capturing “as constructed” conditions of infrastructure projects.

    Dustin Parkman, Bentley vice president of product development, said, “We are excited to offer the industry-first ability to ‘round trip’ i-models. Soon operators will be able to send i-models directly to their mobile work force, who can consume the models, update them directly on the job site, and then send the updated i-models from the field back to ProjectWise with selected data (points, point lists, layers library) directly to an i-model.

    “The integration between ProjectWise and Magnet Enterprise has opened up endless new possibilities for construction-driven engineering workflows using OpenRoads and Magnet Office,” Parkman said.

    Magnet 4.0 is expected to be available in late June with additional upgrades and functionality for users.

  • Topcon focuses on Falcon 8 UAS at AUVSI’s Xponential 2016

    Dave Henderson of Topcon Positioning Systems details the company’s Falcon 8 rotary-wing UAS at the Association of Unmanned Vehicles International‘s Xpontential 2016 show, held May 2-5 in New Orleans. The commercial-grade UAS is designed for inspection and monitoring or survey and mapping applications.

  • Topcon announces new geodetic antenna

    Topcon Positioning Group announces the release of a new full wave geodetic antenna — the G5-A1.  The portable antenna is designed to provide improved multipath mitigation for use with a mobile base station site or network reference station.

    “When paired with the Topcon NET-G5 receiver, the zero-centered geodetic antenna provides a powerful and cost-effective entry-level solution” said Charles Rihner, vice president of the Topcon GeoPositioning Solutions Group.

    The G5-A1 is optimized for geospatial industries and designed to track all globally available and developing satellite constellations. The antenna weighs approximately 1 pound (.5 kg) and is 7 inches (17.9 cm) wide.

    “With its portability and geodetic level performance, the new G5-A1 antenna provides an excellent choice for mobile base system and economy reference station system,” Rihner said.

  • Topcon announces robotic-based system for concrete paving

    Topcon Positioning Group is offering a local positioning system (LPS) for concrete paving. The LPS Paving System is designed to provide a stringless paving solution in conditions when GNSS signals are blocked or unavailable.

    It uses multiple Topcon PS series robotic total stations — tracking two prisms mounted to the concrete paver — for steering and elevation control.

    “This robotic-based system does not encounter sensor outages from bridges and tight paving lanes, including sound walls and active traffic on a mainline project, which could be a problem using GPS,” said Brian Lingobardo, Topcon­ 3D road construction systems manager.

    The LPS system uses the new MC-i4 receiver with LongLink for local communications between the robots.

    “Multiple robots can be setup ahead of time for seamless transitions and without the need to stop to switch total stations. Often a contractor needs to minimize stoppage to achieve tight ride specifications on projects such as tollways,” Lingobardo said.

    “The robots provide very accurate data to the paver’s control system and in turn the results are very impressive,” said Lingobardo.

     

  • Topcon releases 3D dozer machine control system

    Topcon Positioning Group has released a new 3D dozer machine control system — 3D-MCMAX. The system is driven by dual IMUs (inertial measurement unit) designed to increase on-grade performance where speed and blade response is maximized, while eliminating the need for a mast on the blade.

    The system uses Topcon 3D-MC2 technology with the dual IMU sensors and new, unique algorithms to deliver an integrated solution that locates the sensitive GNSS technology safely inside the cab instead of out on the harsh environment of the blade.

    “The 3D-MCMAX is the next generation of dozer grading solutions that redefines the concept of machine control,” said Jamie Williamson, executive vice president and general manager of the Topcon Precision Automation Group. “It provides high-accuracy elevation, slope, and blade rotation sensing in an integrated configuration resulting in maximum speed, maximum control and maximum grading performance.”

    3DMCMAX_Topcon-W

    The system is designed to let operators work confidently in rough or fine grade applications, slope conditions, and in restricted sight environments without the visual obstruction of masts or risks to hanging cables.

    “This advanced system is a result of our clear understanding of how technology is driving the evolution of the construction world, and focusing our improvements on smart algorithms in our firmware and software to increase the productivity of the hardware — a full systems approach,” said Williamson. “The added bonus is a clean integration onto the equipment. Gone is the need for daily installation and removal of antenna, cables, and mast. With 3D-MCMAX, the operator just climbs on and gets to work — downtime is minimized.”

    3D-MCMAX is available for Caterpillar dozers.