In various industries, accurate volume measurements are crucial for planning, logistics, and inventory management. Traditionally, measuring volumes involved manual methods that were time-consuming, error-prone, and lacked precision. However, with advancements in technology, the integration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and handheld scanners has revolutionized the way we calculate cubature, making the process more efficient, accurate, and convenient.
GNSS refers to a network of satellites that transmit signals to receivers on Earth. These signals allow the receivers to determine their precise geographic location. The most known GNSS system is the Global Positioning System (GPS). By utilizing GNSS technology, cubature calculations can be performed with high accuracy, especially when dealing with large areas or complex geometries.
The GNSS receiver used in the field is NavCom SF-3040 Pole-mount GNSS StarFire™ / RTK Extend™ Receiver. It provides both RTK-level accuracy up to 40 km away from the base station or stand-alone DGPS 5 cm level position accuracy anywhere in the world, any time with StarFire. The SF-3040 supports Ultra RTK™, which allows RTK accuracy (1 cm, +0.5ppm) at up to 40 km from the base station. Combined with NavCom’s industry-exclusive RTK Extend™, users can work in challenging environments and maintain RTK- level accuracy even during radio outages for up to 15 minutes.
Handheld scanners, also known as 3D laser scanners, capture detailed geometric data by emitting laser beams and measuring the time it takes for the beams to bounce back. These scanners create highly accurate and detailed 3D models of objects or environments, capturing millions of data points per second. Handheld scanners have become portable, user-friendly, and affordable, making them valuable tools for a wide range of applications.
The 3D scanner used in the field is FJD Trion S1 3D LiDAR scanner. It offers a new way to "look" at the world around you. With 320,000 scan points per second, Trion S1 3D LiDAR scanner can quickly catch high-quality scans. Powered by Leading SLAM algorithm, Trion S1 can also capture, process, and display accurate point clouds on the mobile terminal in real-time.
The field process is described in the following steps:
1. Set up GPS reference points: The first step was establishing GPS reference points within the object we intended to measure. These reference points serve as fixed coordinates to anchor the measurement process. We established four reference points around the object.
2. Scan the object: Using a handheld scanner we carefully moved around the object, capturing multiple data points. The scanner records precise measurements, including dimensions, angles, and surface contours.
3. Data processing and calculation: Once we finished the scanning, the captured data was processed using specialized software. The software analyzes the collected data points, reconstructs a 3D model, and calculates the cubature based on the dimensions and spatial information.
4. Accuracy and adjustments: The GPS coordinates obtained from the reference points contribute to the overall accuracy of the measurements. Inaccuracies due to external factors like atmospheric conditions or scanner limitations can be minimized by applying adjustments during the data processing stage.
5. The last step we performed in the field was recording the points of the object using NavCom SF-3040 GNSS receiver.
The combination of GNNS and handheld scanners offers numerous benefits and finds applications in various industries. Here are some notable advantages:
1. Time and cost savings: Traditional methods of measuring volumes often involve manual labor, which can be time-consuming and costly. GNNS and handheld scanners streamline the process, significantly reducing the time and resources required to calculate cubature.
2. Accuracy and precision: Manual measurements are prone to human error, resulting in inaccurate calculations. With GNNS and handheld scanners, measurements are highly precise, leading to reliable and consistent results.
3. Safety and accessibility: Some environments or objects may be hazardous or difficult to access manually. GNNS and handheld scanners allow measurements to be taken remotely, ensuring the safety of personnel while capturing accurate data.
4. Planning and optimization: Accurate volume calculations enable better planning and optimization of resources. Industries like construction, logistics, and warehousing can benefit from precise volume measurements when determining storage capacities, optimizing cargo loads, or planning construction projects.
By combining precise geolocation information from GNSS with the detailed point cloud data captured by handheld scanners, industries can achieve highly accurate volume measurements. This integration enhances productivity, reduces errors, and enables informed decision-making in various sectors.
Calculating cubature using GNSS receiver and handheld scanner