Laser scanning’s adoption in the construction industry has completely changed the way we document our facilities and sites, or even the construction progress on them. With it’s completely accurate, precise, and data-driven approach to reality-capturing, the industry would surely be seeing an increase in its usage.
For a comprehensive laser scanning strategy for your project requirements, you need to first plan for your laser scanner. Which laser scanner should you utilize for a specific project you are working on?
If you see the current market share of laser scanner manufacturing, Leica Geosystems is one of the significant options.
Why Do We Use Leica Laser Scanners?
Leica’s high-grade laser scanners are used by project managers in architectural, engineering, and construction projects due to their outstanding range, speed, and 3D data quality. These scanners are considered better in comparison to consumer-grade models like Faro and BLK2Go.
Reasons include fast reality capture, intelligent software, and reliable services for various applications. Tejjy has been using Leica’s laser scanners for its laser scanning operations, and it has provided us with the following options:
Unsurpassed scan speed and image capture
The Leica scanners can scan at two million points per second even, capturing full-dome HDR images in one minute, completing high-resolution scans in under three minutes.
High data quality of the scans
The point cloud generated by Leica laser scanners is comprehensive, clean, and sharp, with no incorrect points “floating” in the scan data.
Geometric correctness
The geometry of scanned items will be exact, but other laser scanners produce rounded edges.
Low-range noise
Leica laser scanners produce clean, high-quality scan data with minimal range noise and a rapid scan speed. Other laser scanners require scanning at a slower rate to achieve low range noise.
Mixed-pixel filtration
The data from a Leica laser scan is well-filtered. The scanner’s onboard and import algorithms are extremely clever. Rain and snow sounds, for example, are now identified as noise and ignored throughout the collection and import process, which employs mixed pixel filtration.
HDR photo quality photos
Leica Geosystems scanners now enable High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging mode, which necessitates extra photos and “tone mapping” in software. This mode enhances data gathering on the instrument and introduces a new method to see picture assemblies within the Leica Cyclone by integrating factory calibration and scene data.
Survey-grade dual-axis compensation
Real-time liquid-filled dual axis compensation minimizes movement and ensures level scans.
Convenient data management
High-speed, high-quality laser scanning enables you to collect vast volumes of data quickly. Leica laser scanners can hold hundreds of gigabytes of data and transfer hundreds of megabytes per second. Other scanners save and transfer data on an open-format SD card, which quickly runs out of space.
In-field pre-registration
Leica provides an in-field pre-registration solution that combines software and hardware to maximize productivity.
Leica’s RTC 360
The Leica RTC 360 is a high-grade laser scanner developed for the purpose of high-precision reality documentation in the AEC sector. Noted for its speed and accuracy, it is one of the most sophisticated offerings from Leica Geosystems.
High Accuracy
The RTC 360 offers high precision and accuracy. It scans from 0.5 to 130 m with an accuracy of 1.9 mm at 10 m, 2.9 mm at 20 m, and 5.3 mm at 40 m.
Fast Scanning
RTC 360 scanner scans at two million points per second and capturing full-dome HDR images in one minute to efficiently capture large areas in a short amount of time.
Automated Workflow
The scanner features automated workflows like automated point cloud data pre-registration in the field for rapid quality control checks.
HDR Imaging
The Leica RTC360 3D laser scanner captures 432 Megapixels (MP) of HDR imagery. These source photos are constructed with significant overlap to achieve acceptable quality.
Long-Range Scanning
With a long scanning range, high res scans shorten the range to 65 meters, while low and medium extend the range to 130 meters. It is for indoor and outdoor applications both.
Lightweight and portable
The Leica RTC360 scanner’s portable design and folding tripod allow it to fit into most bags and be brought anywhere for important scanning.
Integrated GNSS
Source: researchgate
Integrated Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology helps in precise georeferencing of scanned data.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
In-built Wi-Fi connectivity feature is for seamless data transfer between the scanner and other devices. It facilitates collaboration and remote data access.
Leica’s BLK 360
The Leica BLK360 is a portable laser scanner from Leica Geosystems that is usually considered for critical scanning. It is commonly used in scenarios where portability and movement is difficult to generate precise digital models of areas.
Compact Design
The BLK360 is portable and small enough to fit in a backpack, measuring 155x80mm and weighing just 850g with batteries.
High-Speed Scanning
It’s sensors record point clouds at a rate of 680,000 points per second and can complete a scan with spherical pictures in 20 seconds.
Integrated 360-distance meter
By an integration with 360° laser distance meter in combination with panoramic photography, it aims to generate an accurate 3D point cloud of its surroundings.
Medium-Range Scanning
While the BLK360 can catch an item from as far away as 150 feet (45 meters), the resolution will be low. It is excellent to scan objects that are 5 to 10 feet distant (1.5 to 3 metres).
Wireless Connectivity
The BLK360’s integrated wireless connection allows for real-time data synchronization across your devices, followed by fast and stable data transfer over WiFI to your iPAD.
After setting it up, press the button, and repeat. For easier scans without a lot of obstructions or preparations, you only need the button.
Multiple Scan Modes
The BLK360 offers LDR or HDR imaging options and four scan settings: Fast+, Fast (25 mm), Dense (12 mm), and Dense+ (6 mm), recording data for 7, 13, 30, or 75 seconds.
RTC360 vs. BLK360: Comparative Analysis
If you analyze Leica’s laser scanning offerings, RTC 360 and BLK 360 are the two major terrestrial laser scanner options available. Organizations often get confused about the best one among these two.
Let us do a comparative analysis between both to form a conclusion.
RTC360
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Accuracy and Range
With its outstanding scanning range and high precision, the RTC360 is a great tool for a variety of fields, such as engineering, forensics, and construction.
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Speed
Rapid data capture is one of its features, which enables users to quickly and effectively scan broad areas. For tasks that have a tight deadline, this is especially helpful.
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Ease of use
The RTC360 is easy to use and can be operated by both professionals with experience and beginners due to its simple controls and workflow.
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Versatility
When it is about covering larger area with more precision and accuracy, RTC 360 is one of the best offering the market, supported by automated registration and HDR imaging.
BLK360
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Integration
For customers who are already familiar with Autodesk products, it smoothly connects with ReCap Pro software from Autodesk, speeding the data processing and visualization workflow.
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Cost-effectiveness
A greater variety of professionals can use the BLK360 since, although it is still a high-end tool, it is comparatively less expensive than certain other laser scanners available on the market.
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Ease of Deployment
Users can begin scanning almost immediately after unpacking the BLK360, thanks to its simple and rapid setup process.
Negatives of BLK360
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Limited Range and Accuracy
The BLK360 has lower accuracy and a shorter range than the RTC360 and other high-end scanners. This might limit its usage to larger scanning projects or applications demanding a high level of precision.
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Lack of advanced features
While the BLK360 offers some basic scanning functions, it may not have all of the sophisticated features found in more costly models. Those features are robust environmental resistance, long-range scanning, and longer battery life.
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More setups are required for data capture by BLK 360
In terms of capturing a single scan, the BLK360 outperforms the RTC360. However, this does not necessarily imply faster project completion because the BLK360 may require many installations to acquire all the essential data.
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Less versatile with it’s applications
BLK 360 lacks versatility in its use. It is particularly suitable for projects like residential homes and narrow mechanical rooms that need fewer scans. If you operate in a variety of environments and settings, the RTC360 may be a better option.
Further Reading
3D Laser Scanning in Construction Complete Guide
Laser Scanning to Measure Floor Flatness and Levelness
Floor Flatness and Levelness in Building Construction
7 Interesting Facts about 3D Laser Scanning Survey
