Tag: Trimble

Trimble offers TX6 and improved TX8 for 3D laser scanning

Trimble’s TX6 and improved TX8 high-performance 3D laser scanning solutions offer a fully integrated high-dynamic range (HDR) camera and Wi-Fi remote control. The high-speed 3D laser scanners provide increased productivity and versatility for users.

The TX6 and the TX8 leverage Trimble’s patented technology, combining microsecond time-of-flight distance measurement with advanced on-board signal and 3D data processing, designed to provide the best combination of productivity, range and accuracy in all conditions.

TX8 3D laster scannr by Trimble.

Integration with Trimble RealWorks allows geospatial professionals to produce high-quality deliverables to pair with CAD software or Trimble SketchUp and EdgeWise for advanced point cloud modeling solutions.

The Trimble TX6 is a medium-range 3D scanning solution designed to quickly capture detail in applications such as public safety, forensics, building for as-builts, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP), Building Information Modeling (BIM) and quality control during construction.

The Trimble TX8 is designed best-in-class for geospatial professionals that require enhanced versatility and longer ranges to effectively support a variety of applications in urban environments, civil infrastructures and challenging terrains.

“The new TX6 and improved TX8 3D laser scanners provide our customers with a range of options to fit their application needs without compromising data quality, accuracy or efficiency,” said Ron Bisio, vice president of Trimble’s Geospatial Division. “The power and versatility of Trimble’s scanning solutions allow construction, surveying and geospatial professionals to meet the needs of even their most demanding clients.”

November 8, 2016
Trimble unveils software GNSS receiver for high-accuracy in mobile devices

Trimble has introduced Catalyst, a software-defined GNSS receiver that works with select Android mobile handhelds, smartphones and tablets. When combined with a small, lightweight, plug-and-play digital antenna and subscription to the Catalyst service, the receiver provides on-demand GNSS, geo-location capabilities to transform consumer devices into high-accuracy mobile data collection systems.

The announcement of the new product, designed for GIS professionals, was made at Trimble Dimensions.

Through smartphone and tablet developments accelerated by the bring your own device (BYOD) to work movement, field workers and consumers increasingly have access to positioning technologies for geospatial data use and collection. The Catalyst software receiver collects data and inspects or manages assets using smart devices. The software-defined GNSS receiver is designed to be integrated into a wide range of applications—providing a dual-frequency, multi-constellation receiver. The mobile device receives dual-frequency signals from the plug-and-play Trimble DA1 digital antenna. The small size and light weight of the antenna makes it possible to store in a car glove box or backpack, available for use on demand. By adding a Trimble Catalyst subscription, users can choose the level of accuracy to suit their application needs from meter level to centimeters.

Trimble calls its Catalyst service Positioning-as-a-Service. It is available on-demand. Users download applications to suit their business needs, purchase the low-cost DA1 digital antenna and subscribe to the level of service required for the application. For GNSS corrections, the solution automatically selects the best available correction service based on the user’s location and subscription level. Corrections powered by Trimble RTX technology and the Trimble VRS Now networks are supported. Trimble RTX corrections can be received either via IP/cellular connection or L-band satellite. The subscription cost is based on usage, allowing users to scale up/down for projects with minimal capital expense.

“The addition of Trimble Catalyst expands our portfolio to address the needs of organizations that have adopted a workplace Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategy for their businesses and individuals who periodically need accurate positioning to support various work activities,” said Ron Bisio, vice president of Trimble’s Geospatial Division.

TerraFlex Geospatial Data Collection. The first available application for the Trimble Catalyst service is the Trimble TerraFlex cloud-based mapping and GIS field software, enabling users to achieve up to centimeter-level accuracy. TerraFlex is a scalable cloud-based solution addressing a variety of field requirements including attribute-rich GIS data collection on consumer devices. With an intuitive interface and streamlined toolset for creating custom digital form templates, TerraFlex keeps the data flow standardized and streamlined from the field to the office.

TerraFlex provides a common interface for users across a range of common mobile and smart devices to provide robust, high-accuracy GNSS positioning and detailed asset attribution collection. The Catalyst service for TerraFlex provides a new option for a higher level of accuracy for users’ workflows without the upfront investment of traditional hardware GNSS receivers. It enables scaling up to meet specific project demands and allows a workforce to collect high-accuracy location in conjunction with other work tasks.

Availability. Catalyst service subscriptions and Catalyst DA1 antenna are expected to be available in the first quarter of 2017. In addition, a Software Development Kit (SDK) is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2016 for developers who are interested in developing new applications that use the Trimble Catalyst positioning on-demand service. Information and updates.

TerraFlex is available now.

November 8, 2016
Trimble xFill for machine control sustains RTK positioning during outages

Trimble’s GCS900 Grade Control System is now available with xFill technology to sustain real-time kinematic (RTK) positions during correction outages.

xFill uses Trimble RTX technology, delivered via satellite, to “fill in” for RTK corrections in the event of temporary radio or Internet connection outages. As a result, contractors can experience fewer interruptions and less machine downtime.

The announcement was made at Trimble Dimensions.

The Trimble xFill technology maintains RTK-level accuracy during periods of radio or cellular interruption and will continue to extend RTK fixed positions with a gradual decrease in accuracy for a period of up to 5 minutes in construction applications. The technology provides seamless transitions between RTK and xFill. It functions by using the last known RTK position in conjunction with satellite-delivered RTX technology to sustain high-accuracy positions.

The xFill service is available throughout most of the world, in areas where Trimble RTX-based services are delivered via satellite.

“Contractors can now take advantage of improved RTK performance and reliability with the addition of xFill technology to the GCS900 Grade Control System,” said Scott Crozier, director of marketing for Trimble’s Civil Engineering and Construction Division. “Trimble xFill gives users who require uninterrupted connectivity and accuracy a more reliable solution, resulting in more machine uptime and fewer work stoppages.”

November 8, 2016
Trimble to acquire Building Data company for BIM, construction

Trimble has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Building Data based in Rocklin, California. Building Data’s managed content and software solutions enable mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) contractors and engineers to produce intelligent, constructible models by including manufacturing-specific content from a proprietary database of more than 6 million 3D data components.

The combination of Building Data’s experience in Building Information Modeling (BIM) content paired with Trimble’s leadership in providing software and hardware solutions for building construction will empower contractors and engineers to gain efficiencies throughout the building lifecycle. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2016.

The announcement was made at Trimble Dimensions.

MEP contractors face an enormous challenge to develop and maintain the data needed to design, estimate, build and manage projects. Trimble’s pricing and content services, combined with Building Data’s 3D solutions, will fill the need for timely, accurate and structured information to drive the key processes of design and construction. Building Data’s managed content and its SysQue software extend the capabilities of existing 3D CAD platforms to enable MEP contractors and engineers to increase productivity by developing constructible models that enable accurate pre-fabrication and field layout.

“With the addition of Building Data, Trimble continues to reinforce its commitment to providing data and analytics solutions to the construction industry. Building Data’s strength lies in its ability to provide structured and highly accurate 3D content that will be connected to Trimble’s existing product and pricing services,” said Pat Bohle, general manager of Trimble’s MEP Division. “This wealth of content will enable MEP contractors and engineers to use their models to improve estimating, detailing, fabrication, purchasing, manufacturing and installation processes.”

“Building Data’s solutions are dedicated to improving the productivity of the building contractor and engineer,” said Jim Reis, chief operating officer of Building Data. “We are already integrated with several of Trimble’s industry-leading software solutions including their fabrication software, field layout solutions and pricing services. We are excited to provide an even greater integrated office workflow for the building contractor and engineer by joining with Trimble.”

The Building Data business will be reported as part of the Engineering and Construction Segment. Financial terms were not disclosed.

November 8, 2016
Buckeye Mountain, Trimble bring GPS to railways

Railway technology company Buckeye Mountain and Trimble are working together to provide the railroad industry with advances in GPS solutions such as the Trimble PG200 GNSS receiver.

The PG200 is a rugged, lightweight and portable receiver to use in rail and intermodal yards to identify safety zones. It also includes auto tracking on critical assets.

Trimble has also been working with Buckeye Mountain to provide the railroad industry with mobile computing and AEI (railcar automatic equipment identification tags) products.

Trimble’s Juno T41 R-AEI, an all-in-one rugged AEI reader, is a compatible platform for Buckeye Mountain’s AEI Quick Read application, a basic mobile application that reads AEI tags.

The T41 keeps workers the required safety distance from railcars while the read range is very responsive.

October 19, 2016
Trimble sells unmanned aircraft system business to Delair-Tech

Strategic alliances with Delair-Tech and Microdrones expand UAS platform options while leveraging Trimble software and data solutions.

Delair-Tech has acquired Trimble’s Belgium-based Gatewing unmanned aircraft system (UAS) engineering and manufacturing business.

Delair-Tech is a provider of long-range, fixed-wing UAS solutions for industrial inspection and asset management applications headquartered in Toulouse, France. Delair-Tech intends to grow the acquired business as part of its portfolio, according to a joint press release with Trimble. Financial terms were not disclosed.

“This transaction is part of our continuing program to tighten our corporate focus,” said Ron Bisio, vice president of Trimble’s Geospatial Division. “Trimble will remain actively engaged in the market by leveraging its brand-agnostic software technology for a broader range of UAS platforms.”

Gatewing has been reported as part of Trimble’s Engineering and Construction segment. The divestiture will not have a material impact on either overall or segment financial results.

Strategic Alliances Expand UAS Options. In addition, Trimble has entered into strategic alliances with Delair-Tech and Microdrones of Siegen, Germany. Microdrones is a provider of multi-rotor UAS solutions.

Under the agreements, Delair-Tech and Microdrones will become preferred providers of both fixed-wing and multi-rotor UAS solutions, with Trimble providing software, data processing and deliverables to UAS operators across multiple vertical markets.

“Trimble chose to partner with Delair-Tech and Microdrones to strengthen our UAS portfolio,” said Bisio. “Working together, Delair-Tech and Microdrones will deliver industry-leading UAS platforms and Trimble will focus on core software technology for UAS that integrates positioning, remote sensing and photogrammetry. The end goal is to deliver a complete solution to transform work processes and efficiency for our customers.”

“We are proud that Trimble selected us to be their fixed-wing UAS solution provider. With the addition of Gatewing to our portfolio, we can provide one of the most innovative and extensive portfolios of long-range, fixed-wing commercial UAS solutions to support Trimble and its distributors,” said Michael Delagarde, CEO of Delair-Tech. “The portfolio will continue to provide dedicated end-to-end solutions, from hardware to fully processed aerial data, which can then be turned into actionable business intelligence.”

“Microdrones complement the Delair-Tech fixed-wing lineup with one of the most resilient and stable Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft on the market today. This provides a complete product line of tightly integrated solutions for mapping,” said Microdrone’s president, Vivien Heriard Dubreuil. “We’re excited to support Trimble distributors to enable a one-stop shop for UAS mapping solutions and to enable their global customers to produce exceptional results on every job.”

October 10, 2016
Trimble acquires Axio-Net GmbH to reinforce European presence

Trimble has acquired Axio-Net GmbH from Airbus Defence and Space. Based in Hannover, Germany, Axio-Net is a provider of GNSS corrections and professional data services serving Germany, the United Kingdom and Benelux. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Axio-Net, founded in 2008, delivers both real-time and post-processed network real-time kinematic (RTK) solutions to a broad range of users including surveyors, GIS professionals and farmers. In addition to traditional correction services, Axio-Net performs a variety of data-based professional services for the geospatial market, including coordinate transformation services as well as network set-up, configuration and operations consulting.

“Our philosophies are highly complementary and together, we will extend Trimble’s position as a global leader of GNSS corrections,” said Patricia Boothe, general manager of Trimble’s Advanced Positioning Division. “We are committed to supporting Axio-Net’s brand-agnostic position, while we leverage their experience with professional services, not only in traditional markets such as geospatial and agriculture, but in emerging high-accuracy GNSS markets such as automotive.”

August 1, 2016
Trimble unveils TDC100 handheld data collector at Esri UC

TDC100 Series Handheld
Photo: Trimble

Trimble introduced its Trimble TDC100 handheld data collector at the 2016 Esri User Conference, which is being held July 27 to July 1 in San Diego, California.

An entry-level GNSS device for a variety of geographic information system (GIS) applications, the Trimble TDC100 combines both smartphone and ruggedized data collection capabilities in a single, mobile device, the company says in a news release.

The Android-based TDC100 can run commercially available or in-house developed applications on a professional, IP-67 ruggedized platform with a sunlight readable display and user replaceable batteries. The built-in GNSS receiver also provides real-time accuracy.

The Trimble TDC100 is available in two models — both models are available with an Android operating system and Wi-Fi, with an optional 4G LTE cellular version. It has a high-resolution 5.3-inch display, an 8 MP (Wi-Fi model) or 13 MP (4G LTE model) camera, and lithium-ion batteries in standard or enhanced capacity. It also supports GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou, as well as satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS) capabilities.

“GIS professionals using GNSS handheld devices for a wide range of data collection applications are expressing a desire for smartphone like capabilities in a built-to-last form factor,” says Ron Bisio, vice president of Trimble’s geospatial division. “We believe the TDC100 will be a workhorse. It has been designed for mobile workers who need a functional field computer that is tougher than a consumer-grade device, while providing easy-to-use features and convenience that people have come to expect. Users can collect and retrieve highly accurate spatial data anytime, and from virtually any place, while remaining in touch with the office — with a single device.”

Trimble TDC100 is expected to be available through Trimble’s geospatial distribution channel in mid-August 2016.

June 28, 2016
Launchpad: OEM, survey and mapping products

OEM

Module for system integrators

Size, weight and power designed for smaller unmanned platforms

MB-Two module by Trimble.

The MB-Two GNSS module delivers highly accurate GNSS-based heading plus pitch or roll in an advanced industry standard form-factor for system integrators. The module’s embedded Z-Blade GNSS technology uses all available dual-frequency GNSS signals equally, without any constellation preference, to deliver fast and stable centimeter-accurate position and heading information. The MB-Two is designed for a wide variety of applications such as unmanned, agriculture, automotive, marine and military systems. The MB-Two features an enhanced dual-core GNSS engine with 240 channels capable of tracking L1/L2 frequencies from the GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou constellations. The GNSS engine supports Trimble RTX correction services, including CenterPoint RTX and RangePoint RTX, delivered worldwide via L-Band satellite. The MB-Two combined with CenterPoint RTX delivers centimeter-level positioning without requiring a local base station or VRS network.

Trimble, trimble.com

Dead-reckoning receiver

High performance, uninterrupted positioning for vehicle applications

The S1722DR8 GNSS dead-reckoning receiver, compared to a U.S. penny.

The S1722DR8 GNSS dead-reckoning receiver integrates a three-axis gyroscope/accelerometer and barometric pressure sensor with a GNSS receiver. Using wheel speed data from a vehicle, the S1722DR8 achieves 100-percent coverage. It can be flexibly mounted in any orientation, and does not have to be placed horizontally as do conventional dead-reckoning solutions that use a single-axis gyroscope. Its auto-calibration feature simplifies installation, while the short calibration time upon first use improves the user experience. The barometric pressure sensor provides highly accurate altitude information, which is useful for differentiating floor levels of multi-story parking garages or stacked highways.The S1722DR8 measures 17 x 22 millimeters. It offers continuous navigation even in GPS-signal-denied environments such as tunnels or underground parking lots.

SkyTraq Technology, www.skytraq.com.tw

SURVEY & MAPPING

Rover radio

Data link for GNSS/RTK and precise positioning

The HX-DU1603D rover radio is an advanced, high-speed, Bluetooth-enabled wireless data link designed for GNSS/RTK (real-time kinematic) surveying and precise positioning. It is a lightweight, ruggedized UHF receiver for digital radio communications between 410 and 470 MHz in either 12.5- kHz or 25-kHz channels, which can be widely used in GNSS/RTK surveying and GNSS precise positioning systems. The HX-DU1603D is equipped with a Bluetooth transceiver for cable-free communications with external devices. It features an internal, rechargeable battery for ease of use and portability that allows long operational hours. Its display screen and buttons can be used to configuration parameters such as frequency, protocols, power display, serial port baud rate and air baud rate. By deploying the technology, users can instantly communicate with GNSS precise positioning receivers that share the same protocols throughout the world. The rover radio HX-DU1603D joins the line of Harxon products that include 25W base radio HX-DU8602T with simplex and 35W base radio HX-DU8608D with Duplex.

Harxon, harxon.com

3D modeling software

Accurate point clouds from images

EyesMap3D generates accurate 3D models and point clouds, measured directly from images. It allows users to create high-density points clouds with textures achieving a realistic 3D model appearance. It is able to measure accurately on the images to generate true orthophotos, and geo-reference and scale the results. eyesMap3D users can use their cameras, mobile phone or camera drone to capture images. The program is compatible with most popular software packages on the market. The goal of maker eCapture is to allow the user to easily generate and work with 3D models and photogrammetric tools, while maintaining data quality.

eCapture, www.ecapture.es

June 3, 2016
Trimble offers GNSS module for system integrators

MB-Two module by Trimble.

Trimble has introduced the MB-Two GNSS module, which delivers highly accurate GNSS-based heading plus pitch or roll in an advanced industry standard form-factor for system integrators.

The module’s embedded Z-Blade GNSS technology uses all available dual-frequency GNSS signals equally, without any constellation preference, to deliver fast and stable centimeter-accurate position and heading information, the company said.

The MB-Two is designed for a wide variety of applications such as unmanned, agriculture, automotive, marine and military systems.

The announcement was made at AUVSI’s Xponential 2016, the largest trade show for the unmanned systems and robotics industry.

“System integrators demand high performance, reliability and support for their positioning solutions,” said Elmar Lenz, general manager of Trimble’s Integrated Technologies Division. “The MB-Two is designed for easy integration and rugged dependability. The size, weight and power specifications of the unit make it the ideal choice for smaller unmanned platforms.”

The MB-Two features an enhanced dual-core GNSS engine with 240 channels capable of tracking L1/L2 frequencies from the GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou constellations. The GNSS engine supports Trimble RTX correction services, including CenterPoint RTX and RangePoint RTX, delivered worldwide via L-Band satellite. The MB-Two combined with CenterPoint RTX delivers centimeter-level positioning without requiring a local base station or VRS network.

The Trimble MB-Two module is available now through the Trimble GNSS OEM international network of representatives and authorized dealers.

May 9, 2016
Trimble multi-GNSS timing antenna allows for BeiDou, Galileo
Trimble has introduced its latest smart antenna with an integrated multi-GNSS receiver for high accuracy and precise timing applications. The Acutime 360 smart antenna provides a pulse-per-second (PPS) output synchronized to UTC within 15 nanoseconds (one sigma).

The Acutime 360 is the latest in the Acutime line of products, which have been deployed in the field for more than 20 years. With a user friendly interface for communication, the GNSS smart antenna is light weight and easy to integrate with a host system. It is suitable for critical infrastructure including wireless networks and utilities.

The Acutime 360 GNSS smart antenna is built using the Trimble 360 technology platform for multi-GNSS systems, which includes support for GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and is Galileo-ready. The Acutime 360 has tracking sensitivity of -160 dBm and an acquisition sensitivity of -148 dBm. The increased sensitivity translates into greater reliability and accuracy.

The Acutime 360 smart antenna uses a standard 12-pin connector and is footprint-compatible with previous generations of Acutime antennas. The Acutime 360 antenna is an ideal solution for precise timing and frequency synchronization for a wide range of applications including:
- sync reference for wireless and small cell networks
- utilities – smart grid
- Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems
- critical infrastructure
Designed for long-term reliability, the IP67 compliant Acutime 360 is corrosion-resistant and waterproof and has a rounded top that facilitates run-off from the elements. It weighs less than 6 ounces and offers an extremely cost-effective solution for adding GNSS reference to any application where ease of installation and long-term reliability is critical.

Once powered, the Acutime 360 automatically tracks satellites and surveys its position to within meters. It then switches to over-determined time mode and generates a PPS, outputting a time tag for each pulse. The smart antenna’s Time-Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitor (T-RAIM) algorithm maintains PPS integrity.

The GNSS smart antenna can operate in extreme temperatures (-40°C to +85°C) and hostile RF environments typically encountered at wireless network transmitter sites. It requires less than 1 watt of power to operate and outputs the Trimble Standard Interface Protocol (TSIP) or industry-standard NMEA messages.

The Acutime 360 smart timing antenna is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2016 through Trimble’s Time and Frequency sales network.
March 7, 2016
Louisiana DOT goes mobile for levee inspections

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has deployed TerraGo Edge for the inspection of flood protection infrastructure including levees, dams and reservoirs.

The DOTD’s Public Works and Water Resources Division inspects more than 1,100 miles of levees, four times every year.

The legacy inspection system was a custom-built application developed by an engineering services firm, which used Trimble Yuma ruggedized tablets. Over time, the system became less reliable and database updates were cumbersome and problematic. To truly fix the system would have meant more custom development services and other expenses.

Each of the six Yuma tablets, fully configured, ran around $6,000. The annual software maintenance was also expensive at around $18,000, which did nothing to improve the reliability of the system.

“We really wanted a cloud-based system, so we wouldn’t need to maintain a database server on-site. And if we could deploy an Android solution, those tablets would only cost us about $200, so the hardware would be pennies on the dollar. We could break and replace a lot of Android tablets compared to a traditional, ruggedized GPS tablet at $6,000,” said Doug Taylor, Director of Levees, Dams and Reservoirs at the DOTD.

After a series of successful field trials, DOTD knew it had found a mobile solution that met their requirements across the board for reliability, ease of use and customizability, all with a cloud-based database solution at a fraction of the cost.

TerraGo Edge’s customizable forms mean the DOTD never has to pay a software services fee for modifying a hard-coded solution again. They can design their own forms, maps and workflows, flexibly changing them whenever needed to improve the speed and quality of inspections and maintenance.

“Honestly, my favorite part about TerraGo Edge is that it’s just easy to use,” said Taylor. “It’s easy to use in the field and it’s easy to get information and reports out whenever we need them. The challenge is always how to figure out the right forms and inspection workflow. We have hundreds of codes and things change over time. With Edge, we can customize our forms and process today, and know we can adjust things in the future. ”

To learn more about the Louisiana DOTD customer success story, download the case study.

March 2, 2016