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Trimble improves project visualisation with new laser scanner and AR technology

Posted on 17 Sep 2019

Trimble has introduced a new laser scanning system that, it says, enables professionals of all scanning levels to quickly and easily capture precise 3D data to produce “high-quality deliverables”, alongside an outdoor augmented reality (AR) solution to improve planning, collaboration and reporting.

The Trimble X7 3D laser scanner (pictured) is an integrated solution with specialised field software, featuring simple and streamlined workflows. It is able to provide automatic registration of point cloud data in the field with Trimble Registration Assist, while Smart Trimble X-Drive technology eliminates the need for annual calibration. The scanner also comes equipped with survey-grade self-levelling to ensure consistent data quality.

The X7 comes with a Microsoft Windows-based Trimble T10 tablet for control and project visibility, along with a backpack and lightweight tripod for portability, it said.

Gregory Lepere, Marketing Director, Optical and Imaging for Trimble Geospatial, said the ability of the Trimble X7 to deliver high-speed 3D laser scanning with intuitive workflows and unique technologies has led to the automation of critical steps to improve efficiency and productivity.

“The X7 is a useful, everyday tool because it doesn’t require scanning expertise to operate. It opens the door for more construction, surveying, industrial and forensics professionals to confidently capture and deliver scan data and realise a faster return on investment.”

For surveyors and geospatial professionals, the X7 provides fast and balanced performance in both indoor and outdoor environments and can be used in numerous surveys, including those routinely carried out in mining.

The Trimble X7 solution is integrated with the new Trimble Perspective software, which the company says is specifically designed for in-field control and complete registration.

“The combination enables scans and images to be captured, fully registered together, refined, controlled and exported to a variety of established data format for Trimble and non-Trimble software suites,” the company said.

The Trimble X7 is expected to be available in the March quarter of 2020 through Trimble’s authorised distribution networks, the company said.

In addition to this new scanner, the company also announced the release of its Trimble SiteVision™ system, an outdoor augmented reality (AR) solution to enable users to visualise 2D and 3D data on “virtually any project site” with cellular or internet connectivity for easier and more efficient planning, collaboration and reporting.

The Trimble SiteVision Integrated Positioning System integrates the Trimble Catalyst DA1 Antenna, Electronic Distance Measurement rangefinder and power management into this handheld AR device that connects to a user-supplied Android mobile phone, according to the company.

Trimble said: “Using Trimble Connect™ cloud-based hosting, SiteVision can access models from all stages of the lifecycle of infrastructure and buildings – from initial concepts of roads or buildings through the operations and maintenance phase of the assets – to increase collaboration, enhance work accuracy and ultimately improve operations and utilisation.”