Skip to main content

Picture perfect from Leica

Advanced imaging capability has been added to the Leica ScanStation C10 laser scanner. The new option consists of a direct digital camera mount on the ScanStation C10 scanner and tight, automated integration of external camera images into the scanner’s on-board controller and data storage system. Cyclone v7.4 supports the new option.
July 18, 2012 Read time: 2 mins

Advanced imaging capability has been added to the Leica ScanStation C10 laser scanner.

The new option consists of a direct digital camera mount on the ScanStation C10 scanner and tight, automated integration of external camera images into the scanner’s on-board controller and data storage system. Cyclone v7.4 supports the new option.

265 Leica Geosystems (LG) said ScanStation C10 users will continue to have the option of using the scanner’s convenient, embedded camera for taking precisely aligned, high-resolution digital pictures of the surrounding scene.

The company’s ScanStation C5 with internal camera option can also be used with the new external camera option.

With the growing popularity of powerful point cloud viewing software capabilities like TruView, Cyclone TruSpace, and fly-through movies, users are said by LG to be increasingly taking advantage of high-end external camera imagery with point cloud data.

Previously, applying such quality external imagery involved removing a scanner head from its tripod; placing a high-end camera on the same tripod; taking 360º full-dome pictures; and then using third party software tools to apply the full dome imagery to the point cloud data. This method added up to15-30 minutes per scanner setup. The new integrated, automated external camera option is said to cut the total time to less than 5 minutes per setup. With dozens of setups a day typical, the new option saves many hours each day. New commands for the integrated, external camera facility are in ScanStation C10 firmware v2.70.

Meanwhile, optional external camera support exists for an 18 Megapixel Canon EOS 60D camera. An External Camera Mounting Kit includes a bracket for this camera that conveniently attaches to the ScanStation C10’s removable carry handle slot, plus a USB cable that connects the camera to the scanner for camera control from the scanner and for automatic image transfer.

In addition to supporting the new External Camera option, Cyclone 7.4 also has the ‘Gradient Display’ point cloud display feature. It provides users with several gradient display backgrounds for point clouds, such as a blue sky and brown ground in places where there is no point cloud data, making the appearance of point cloud data more familiar to new users.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Topcon announces increased 3D scanning integration with Autodesk
    August 17, 2015
    Topcon Positioning Group says it has improved workflow compatibility for the GLS-2000 3D laser scanner and ScanMaster software with Autodesk solutions. With the latest version of Autodesk ReCap, the GLS-2000 pairs with Topcon ScanMaster software to collect, process, edit and deliver 3D point cloud data from a laser scanner. ReCap allows users to perform tasks such as scan conversion, editing and viewing point cloud data. It also provides integration with Autodesk’s portfolio of design software. Aut
  • Automatic control
    February 7, 2012
    Leica Geosystems says that sophisticated PowerDigger 2D guidance system for excavators offers automatic slope control. The system expands on its PowerSnap technology and is said to make excavating easier and more productive. The system uses a standard panel whether fitted to a dozer, excavator or grader, which is also said to save money on training and equipment, as well as reducing down time. Leica PowerDigger 2D system allows multiple elevations and slopes to be constructed at any orientation, witho
  • Leica Geosystems’ tools for site monitoring and handling GPR data
    October 11, 2017
    Leica Geosystems is offering new tools for construction firms for remote monitoring and for handling data from ground penetrating radar. With the GeoMoS Imaging package, users can stay up-to-date on remote monitoring; the live view allows observation and recording of areas of interest. A joystick provides remote access to the total station so that personnel can increase productivity and reduce time in the field.
  • Latest innovations in GPS and machine control
    February 22, 2012
    Modern satellite technology is making life easier for everyone on the construction site and in the office. Most major equipment manufacturers are now integrating GPS machine control systems into the design of excavators, bulldozers, pavers, and motor graders. For stake-less work it is a major component for automatic grading, surveying, and excavating systems, with contractors and construction companies using GPS machine control systems to improve operations.