Skip to main content

Topcon to smoothen roads with SmoothRide system

Topcon Positioning has developed a sophisticated package that can help deliver better road surface quality. The firm’s latest SmoothRide data collection package is said to make the mapping of road conditions easier and more efficient. The new RD-M1 Collect 2.0 package has an improved interface and a new graphical interface status bar that indicates the optimum speed for collecting road information based on the project requirements.
February 28, 2018 Read time: 2 mins
342 Topcon Positioning has developed a sophisticated package that can help deliver better road surface quality. The firm’s latest SmoothRide data collection package is said to make the mapping of road conditions easier and more efficient. The new RD-M1 Collect 2.0 package has an improved interface and a new graphical interface status bar that indicates the optimum speed for collecting road information based on the project requirements.


The system provides a steady flow of information about the road surface as the lidar unit scans the whole width of the roadway continuously. The digital design model that is then generated is far more accurate as a result.

Topcon claims that the RD-M1 Collect 2.0 is designed to simplify setup and automatically detect the position of the sensor during data collection. By gathering data at a higher speed, the unit can deliver higher productivity while also delivering better results. The system has a new Memos tool that allows operators to places messages onto the map, while collecting data that also can be made visible in the processing software. This allows specific site conditions to be noted for future reference. Also new is the Manage Runs tool, which means the system can be used without having to open Windows Explorer. Operators can copy data onto a USB drive, delete the information from the hard drive, while the RD-M1 Collect 2.0 Plan Route feature allows for the import of kml files. By using the latest map downloader tool, machine operators can gain access to map details while collecting data, but without the need for an internet connection.

The firm says that using the system for scanning can create a high density point cloud, which the software can then simplify and use to generate a highly accurate digital terrain model. From that the user can develop a new project design, which can then be loaded onto construction equipment for machine guidance purposes.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • A virtual virtuous circle
    March 19, 2021
    Virtual sensors will allow a safer driving experience and reduce road maintenance costs. Tactile Mobility’s Eitan Grosbard talks to David Arminas
  • Bentley’s point cloud innovation for information modelling in road design
    August 22, 2013
    Latest software packages from Bentley Systems will help optimise project design and construction efficiency – Mike Woof reports Software systems have come a long way in helping optimise construction projects from design through construction to delivery. And the latest software from Bentley Systems offers additional capabilities for road design applications. Bentley Systems is offering the V8i (SELECTseries 3) versions of its InRoads, GEOPAK, and MXROAD products. All of the products now share the
  • Trends in compaction machine technology
    February 20, 2012
    More efficient and productive compaction solutions are coming to market shortly, Mike Woof reports. Several key trends are emerging in the asphalt compaction market with the development of the latest generation machines. Performance and productivity remain key issues for compactor manufacturers with firms keen to maximise output from their latest units.
  • Road milling advances from key players
    January 30, 2020
    Major manufacturers have introduced key innovations in milling, recycling and stabilisation