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

  • Topcon’s partnerships
    May 20, 2019
    Topcon has been striking key deals with manufacturers of earthmoving machines to supply machine control packages. The firm has set up arrangements with both JCB and Volvo CE for its sophisticated packages, which will help customers to optimise operations. JCB's new X-Series excavator is now being offered with a sophisticated machine guidance system from Topcon Positioning, which is said to boost productivity by up to 30%. A result of a collaboration between JCB and Topcon Positioning Group, the Topco
  • Topcon develops new dozer machine control package
    March 15, 2016
    Topcon Positioning says that its latest indicate dozer machine control system, the i-53, comes with the latest Topcon GNSS receiver, graphical user interface, and machine control software. The firm claims that this package offers a versatile indicate dozer system for an affordable price. The system expands the Topcon dozer indicate product line by offering single GNSS plus single or dual axis slope sensor configurations for complete control of elevation and slope. The i-53 features the Topcon GX-55
  • Accurate scanning
    February 6, 2012
    TOPCON CLAIMS that its GLS- 1500 laser scanner speeds point cloud collection. This unit is 10 times faster than previous units and collects up to 30,000 points/second, reducing the amount of equipment needed in the field. The GLS-1500 offers a range of up to 330m and is designed for quick setup to save time and improve productivity.
  • Data collection key to software developments
    February 13, 2012
    The collection and handling of data are key technology drivers in the software sector. New methods of data collection and manipulation are driving significant developments in software at present. The latest technology allows designers and engineers to collect, store and manipulate ever larger amounts of data. Growing use of mobile field equipment for both data collection and field management is driving interactive systems. And in an interview this month Autodesk senior vice-president for the construction an