Conventional terrestrial laser scanners capture data from one window, spinning to achieve a 360-degree field of view; the XR3-D captures data from both sides simultaneously, with the scanner head only needing to spin 180 degrees.
"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 releases its in-field scanner controller - FieldHHC - as a product in its own right.
Dynamic 3D views of scans in progress optimise time spent on data capture in active mining environments and minimise 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 visualisation, colouring and measurement tools. Full geolocation support with Bluetooth connection to GPS devices for RTK corrections makes for efficient field time. Smart lighting settings for indoor, outdoor and underground conditions improve the value-in-use.
A new design conformance tool on the controller helps surveyors instantly recognise whether pit walls are conforming to design. Issues can be resolved while in the field, and dynamic reporting and cross-section output means everyone stays up to date.
Software updates that improve and support the automation of survey tasks round out the mid-year mine measurement release. Maptek PointStudio includes enhancements to inter-ramp conformance reporting, a new Rock Quality Designation feature, additional Python integration and further display options.
"This release targets an important goal of reducing the time between collecting data and deriving value from it," said 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," Richards said. "In-built, customisable 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."
Got a story? Email: duncan.moore@aspermontmedia.com
