Trimble’s Rapid Positioning System Simplifies Layout for Contractors

David Burczyk, Segment Manager Field Solutions at Trimble, spoke with GISCafe Voice about the the company’s Rapid Positioning System, that includes Trimble RPT600 Layout Station, for layout of points and to capture them as-built measurements, and Trimble Field Link 2D software that runs on a performance tablet to control the layout station.

The tool, that includes Trimble’s advanced positioning technology, makes it possible for contractors to record and locate positions for layout points including anchor bolts, foundation layout, walls, ceilings and hangers on the construction jobsite.

AECCafe Voice: This system has some kind of location intelligence – what is Trimble’s advanced positioning technology? Is it something new added?

David Burczyk: Through a smart one-button operation, Trimble Autostationing is a patented technology that enables a user to turn on the unit and walk away while the Trimble RPT600 takes a panoramic image, detect targets and define its location relative to the project site automatically.  This unique feature reduces both mistakes and the time needed to set up on a job site and begin laying out field points.

AECCafe Voice: How does it integrate with existing building information models?

David Burczyk: The Rapid Positioning System, which includes the RPT600 and Trimble Field Link 2D, imports both 3D models and layout drawings produced in a building information model to accurately lay out points on a project site.  Measurements can also be made on a job site and exported out as a drawing file that can be integrated within a building information model.

AECCafe Voice: Can you describe a typical workflow using this system?

David Burczyk: Layout drawings are created in the 3D model and imported to Trimble Field Link 2D using our point creation software, Trimble Field Points.  As a field point is laid out using the Rapid Positioning System, the point immediately becomes an as-built record of the installed condition.  The as-built information is then exported from the Rapid Positioning System and brought back in to the 3D model through Trimble Field Points.  Any deviations between the design intent and the built condition are immediately identified by Trimble Field Points, providing true round-trip capabilities between the office and field teams.

AECCafe Voice: How common is it for customers to embrace the cloud as a way of being able to collaborate on construction projects?

David Burczyk: We’re seeing cloud-based collaboration tools continue to gain momentum and use on many construction projects.  That’s why we’ve also offering Trimble Connect, our cloud-based collaboration platform for teams involved in the design, construction and operation of buildings.  Trimble Connect meets the growing need for project teams to access, analyze, manage and share project data from anywhere at any time.

 AECCafe Voice: What security is in place on the cloud for those who are involved in a particular project?

David Burczyk: Trimble Connect provides role-based access and security features tailored to project teams to keep data secured.

Key features:

• Autostationing lets the system self-locate. No leveling required.
• 300° vertical field of view simplifies overhead work
• Highly visible green laser lets contractors mark the spot easily
• Trimble VISION technology enables contractors to control instrument remotely
• Trimble Field Link 2D provides guided workflows
• Runs on a standard tablet computer

Tags: 3D models, AEC, as-built, geospatial, GIS, layout, positioning, Trimble

Categories: analytics, asset management, data, Esri, geospatial, GIS, LBS, location based sensor fusion, location based services, location intelligence, mapping, photogrammetry, sensors, Trimble

This entry was posted on Thursday, February 5th, 2015 at 10:28 am. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.