New high-accuracy survey products from Maptek

Dual-window scanner that halves data-capture time headlines latest releases from Maptek

THE new Maptek XR3-D mkII laser scanner with dual-window arrangement cuts scan acquisition time in half. Conventional terrestrial laser scanners capture data from one window, spinning to achieve a 360° field of view; the XR3-D captures data from both sides simultaneously, with the scanner head only needing to spin 180°.

‘Survey crews can incidentally scan surrounding terrain in both directions while they’re on their way to capture highwall and stockpile data,’ said Jason Richards, global product strategy manager for Maptek. ‘There’s no need to return to the pit later, as the haul roads, gradients and infrastructure have already been acquired seamlessly.’

The July 2021 hardware release from Maptek is the confluence of research into cutting-edge sensing technologies and customer feedback, enhancing user experience through improved range, speed, image clarity and quality. Hardware models in the new R3 mkII series include the extra long-range XR3 (standard and cold climate configurations), the SR3 for short-range underground applications and the new XR3-D.

In another move to streamline survey practice, Maptek have released their in-field scanner controller – FieldHHC – as a product in its own right. ‘From day one, we have built standard survey workflows into our laser scanners to deliver the most productive in-field survey experience,’ said Mr Richards. ‘FieldHHC improves on this, with an intuitive GUI and impressive new features ensuring that data is turned into knowledge in the fastest way.’

Dynamic 3D views of scans in progress optimize time spent on data capture in active mine and large quarry environments and minimize the need to wait for in-office processing. The on-tablet in-field assistant provides thumbnail views and detailed information on every scan, alongside instant 3D visualization, colouring and measurement tools.

Full geolocation support with Bluetooth connection to GPS devices for real-time kinematic (RTK) corrections makes for efficient field time, whilst smart lighting settings for indoor, outdoor and underground conditions improve the value in use.

Software updates that improve and support the automation of survey tasks round out Maptek’s latest mid-year product release. Maptek PointStudio includes enhancements to inter-ramp conformance reporting, a new Rock Quality Designation feature, additional Python integration and further display options, whilst Maptek Sentry, now on the Maptek Workbench with a ribbon menu, delivers enhanced interoperability for monitoring, analysing and reporting on surface movements.

Maptek have been providing mining-dedicated laser scanners since 2004. Their robust vehicle mount and subsequent Maptek Drive continuous mobile mapping solution added versatility to site practice, but technology has continued to advance exponentially, as has its uptake in industry.

‘This release targets an important goal of reducing the time between collecting data and deriving value from it,’ said Mr Richards. ‘To avoid ‘drowning in data’, solutions need to embrace automation. This is key to ensuring accurate spatial data drives resource, recovery and conformance modelling and the results quickly flow through to guide planning and production teams. In-built, customizable workflows ensure users can interact dynamically with the field-captured data without becoming overwhelmed with volume and detail.

‘We remain committed to the terrestrial laser scanning approach because our customers tell us how important it is and how much they need it in their technology mix,’ concluded Mr Richards.