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

  • Traffic management software tools
    March 5, 2012
    A joint development project between Delcan Corporation and Intelligent Devices Incorporated (IDI) has resulted in the sophisticated Intelligent NETworks product. This is an integrated product that combines the IDI Intelligent Control NTCIP system with the Delcan advanced transportation applications of NETworks. The system can be linked to dynamic message signs (DMS), CCTV and vehicle detector stations (VDS), traffic intersections, as well as environment road weather sensor stations.
  • New wheeled loaders are coming to market
    August 10, 2021
    Several improved wheeled loader models are now being offered by major manufacturers
  • New technology solutions
    April 30, 2024
    Construction machinery manufacturers are introducing new systems that can boost machine efficiency and site safety – Mike Woof writes
  • Advances in milling
    July 23, 2024
    Some major machine manufacturers have introduced improved milling equipment to the market - Mike Woof reports