Leica Laser Scanners technology has become a staple around the globe; arguably, almost all industries benefit from this technology, and even if you haven’t encountered it in real life, you must have seen it in the movies beginning in the 20^th century. 

Leica 3D Laser technology dates back to the 1960s when the scanners developed during this period were characteristic of projectors, lights, and cameras to perform their designated tasks accurately.

Enter the 1990s, the construction industry’s use of advanced laser scanners gained much more traction than anticipated. Therefore, laser scanners collect high dynamic range and image data to help improve efficiency and productivity.

In a world where transparency rules, a space where you need the best technological innovations to ensure that things run efficiently and effectively at all times, you need the best technical elements to get things running. Whether in construction or the oil drilling business, necessary technologies will give you an upper hand in your industry.

In this case, you need the best Leica devices for the best performance in your construction business, specifically Leica Laser Scanners. So, what exactly are these technologies, and how do they work?

What is GNSS, and how does it work?

GNSS or Global Navigation Satellite System refers to satellites’ constellations to provide specific signals from space to transmit positioning and timing data directly to GNSS receivers. These receivers will then make use of the data collected for location determination.

Thanks to the design of GNSS, they offer global coverage, hence more accuracy and a high level of performance.

GNSS follows four main criteria – accuracy, integrity, continuity, and availability for assessing the GNSS performance.

In terms of accuracy, GNSS’s performance is the difference between a receiver’s actual position and the measured performance, time, or speed.

Integrity – this means that the GNSS system can offer a threshold of confidence, which means that an alarm would be raised in the event of an anomaly in data positioning.

Continuity – The GNSS system is capable of working fully without any interruptions.

Availability refers to GNSS’s percentage of time within which the signals received by GNSS receivers can fulfill results above the accuracy, continuity criteria, and integrity of the data.

The European GNSS or E-GNSS features the use of satellite signals from the Galileo constellation and augmentation services, all offered by EGNOS. Then you have the European GNSS agency of GSA responsible for managing the European GNSS.

These happen through the GNSS Service Centre or GSC, which offers support for providing a single interface for all Galileo users.

It’s also worth noting that GSA contracted the operations of EGNOS and its service providers to ESSP (European Satellite Services Provider), enabling a single interface for all EGNOS users through the use of EGNOS user web support.

So, how does GNSS Work?

While GNSS satellites vary in design and age, their overall principle of operation remains the same. These satellites work by transmitting two carrier waves on their L-Band, L1 and L2. These carrier waves work by sending information to the Earth from satellites.

Most GNSS receivers feature an antenna and a processing unit. The antenna works to receive satellite signals, and the processing unit processes and makes sense of the signs received. But for an accurate determination of the receiver’s position, GNSS calls for the use of at least three satellites to ensure the accuracy of the information collected.

GNSS’s satellite orbits Earth every 11 hours, 58 minutes, and 2 seconds at its medium-orbit altitude to make all these possible. Each of the satellites transmits coded signals containing the details of the satellite’s actual position and orbit details and a stable time stamp collected from the atomic clock.

Then you have the time information broadcast, which runs as codes by the satellite. These codes transmitted by the satellites allow the receiver to determine the actual time for the broadcast signals continuously. These signals collected contain data used by the receiver to compute the precise location of the satellites while adjusting the satellites for accurate positioning.

Next, the receiver uses the time difference from the satellite signals reception and the specific broadcast time to compute the range or distance from the receivers to the satellite.

Once the receiver has the satellite’s precise position concerning the other satellites, it will translate its position into the Earth-based coordinates system, hence the latitude, longitude, and height positioning.

So, what makes GNSS very accurate/ precise?

The GNSS receivers precisely determine satellite and location positioning based on four factors mentioned above – longitude, latitude, height, clock error, or any other navigational solution from the receiver based on the computation of the distance from the satellites.

Signal transmission is made possible by accurate atomic clocks in the satellites. As a result, these receivers calculate the total time for the information collected from the satellite in question to reach the GNSS receivers.

For position determination, the GNSS receivers must be in the line of sight between the four satellites and the receiver’s antennas. And by using more receivers will be easy for you to improve the receiver’s position solution.

The only catch is that very few receivers can use the extra satellites. But by synchronizing the local clocks with the system’s very accurate atomic clocks on their satellites.

With high time precision, GNSS systems are ideal for use in cellular systems, financial networks, and the synchronization of power grids.

Is GNSS better than GPS?

GNSS, which represents a term encompassing all the global satellite positioning systems, works differently. Still, importantly, it’s worthwhile to mention that GPS is a component of GNSS.

Specifically, GPS refers to the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System, representing the constellation of satellites developed by the US DOD (Department of Defence). Though initially designed for use by the military, GPS was later accessible to civilians for continuous global positioning and global timing information under all weather conditions.

In short, GPS and GNSS work together or collaborate for the global location positioning needed anywhere on Earth.

However, the main difference between these systems is that while GNSS is a GNSS-compatible device using navigational satellites from all other systems beyond GPS, hence the highest level of accuracy plus reliability, not all GPS receivers are GNSS-compatible. As a result, the level of accuracy for GPS might be imperfect at other times.

That said, GPS and GNSS have the following in joint. They both have space/ satellite segments, a ground segment for ground control stations, and a user segment for GNSS and GPS receivers, not to mention the exact location of the satellites at any time in question.

The satellites will send radio signals toward the Earth. These signals will be picked by GPS and GNSS receivers; then, you have ground control stations for monitoring GNSS and tracking satellites, updating satellite positioning with ease.

How do Leica 3D Laser Scanners work?

3D laser scanners and, subsequently, laser scanning technology, refer to the non-contact and non-destructive technology designed to digitally capture the shape of the physical questions using laser lights.

Leica 3D Laser will then create point clouds as data from surface objects. 3D scanning allows for capturing physical objects in their exact sizes/ shapes as digital 3D representation systems.

The Leica 3D laser scanning process follows these steps:

• Data acquisition through Leica 3D laser scanning. In this case, the object to be scanned is placed on the digitizer’s bed. This is made possible by specialized software that will drive laser probes above the object’s surface. The laser probe will then project the line of laser light on the digitizer’s surface, where two sensor cameras continuously record the changing shape and distance of the laser lines running in 3D.
• Resultant Data. Next up, the object’s shape appears as millions of points or point clouds on your computer monitor while the laser runs around to capture the object’s shape. This is a superfast process that gathers up to 750,000 PPS.
• Modeling Choice, depending on the available applications. The collected cloud data files are then registered and merged into a 3D representation of the object and the post-professed image using specific applications.
• Inspection of Point Cloud data. The scanned data is compared to the CAD nominal data from the designer, and the result of this process is delivered as color map deviation reports in a PDF format.
• CAD modeling for Reverse Engineering. It would be best to use specialized software to create the fastest way of making the most accurate and very automated 3D digital data through reverse engineering. The point cloud data is important here as it allows for creating 3D CAD models as part of the model’s geometry. The CAD models allow for precise reproductions of scanned images and are also used to correct imperfections.

Laser design further allows for the provision of surface models or solid models for the best results needed.

Leica 3D laser scanning and Leica Total Stations are important for developing accurate designs through simultaneous models in the building phase.

Best Leica GNSS and Leica Laser Scanners in 2022.

1. Leica Viva GS14 ($8,999.00) – Best GNSS Smart Antenna

Dubbed the GNSS Smart Antenna, the Leica Viva GS14 is one of the most reliable professional smart antennas for GNSS. You might like it if you are looking for a device that delivers the highest, most demanding level of accuracy.

Thanks to the very intuitive Leica SmartWorx Viva software, it’s easy to use, which allows for the delivery of functional menu structures, clear graphics, simplified workflows, and easily understandable terminologies.

Thanks to the software setup, you get to save a significant amount of time and effort. On top of that, you have the Leica Infinity software, which complements the functions of SmartWorx Viva by processing all the information collected and sent to your office. It allows for the smoothest data transfers that help in keeping your projects on track.

The two software applications work together, joining previous survey data, hence faster and more efficient project editing. All these, and you also enjoy access to the best Active customer care.

It’s tricky: it is built for rugged and harsh environments, boasts high data accuracy, and it’s flexible to work with.

The Leica Viva GS14 is a considerably compact unit configured for varied measuring tasks, and the team comes complete with integrated mobile communications and a UHF modem. It is also user-friendly, with an integrated smart antenna to suffice the most demanding accuracy; there are no restrictions in using the Viva GS14, meaning that you can use it in any environment.

The Leica Viva GS14 has also been equipped with IP68 protection against dust. It can also withstand extreme temperatures of 40°C in addition to the +65°C integrated GSM internal technology to protect the antenna from breaking or getting lost.

Pros

• Provides clear graphics and practical menu structures
• Saves time and effort when working on any site

Cons

• The price is on the higher side

2. Leica GS18 T – Fastest GNSS RTK Rover ($14,900.00)

Regarded as the world’s fastest GNSS RTK rover, Leica GS18 T offers a remarkable level of performance. It’s ideal for use with projects that call for high-speed onsite results/ data.

One of the things that stands out from this rover is its magnetic disturbance resistance and calibration-free operation, which means that the use of the rover needs no leveling. This design makes it easy to use, and you earn points quicker without vertically holding poles.

By using the latest innovative techniques and technologies, this rover combines IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units) and GNSS to establish a proper tilt compensation solution that’s not only immune to all magnetic disturbances but also calibration-free.

Also, you get accurate positioning results when working close to metallic objects, which couldn’t be done before.

Leica gs18t is a one-of-kind GNSS RTK rover and has raised the bar relatively high for its competitors simply because it does not depend on the magnetometer to rectify the pole tilt for each measurement.

The unit has additionally incorporated a self-learning GNSS smart antenna that offers high-class performance. Also, the adaptive measurement engine with the RTK plus provides measurement engineers in the construction sites and achieves the best position, as it automatically selects the optimal signal combination.

Pros

• The incorporated Leica captive software offers a powerfully immersive experience.

• Data transfer is smooth, thus keeping the project on track

Cons

• Require high initial investment

3. Leica Zeno 20 – Best GIS Collector ($4,484.00)

This surveying equipment is more than a GPS – it is a masterpiece fusion of intelligent technologies, a high-performance GIS collector that delivers accurate, simple, and best-rugged asset management.

It’s one of the best investments for GIS field personnel as it simplifies data collection using cutting-edge technologies. Most importantly, this GIS data collector has overcome the biggest GIS challenges around data reliability and accurate device positioning in impossible areas.

It makes that possible using two specific technologies, Apogeetec and Gamtec. Apogeetec is designed to cover dense/ covered/ closed areas with maximum performance/ accuracy. At the same time, Gamtec works to increase the safety of works and results in dangerous and hard-to-reach areas – a simple aim-and-collect system.

Leica Zeno 20 integrates with mobile data capturing solutions with ZeroCollector, thanks to the integration of ArcGIS, easily interfaced with your organization’s systems.

Leica Zeno 20 is the best data capture device for GIS field personnel if you have been looking for simplicity, productivity, and accuracy. And while in the field, you can worry less about the impact of your worksite as the unit has incorporated durable IP67 dust and waterproof rating.

Additionally, downloading the android application will help stream the RTK-corrected GNSS positions, giving you the liberty to work from anywhere.

Pros

• Offers excellent accuracy thanks to the professional-grade GNSS coordination
• Saves time

Cons

• Requires training before use

4. Leica Zeno GG04 ($4,900.00) – High Accuracy Design with Smart Device Integrations 

This intelligent antenna was developed to increase confidence in data accuracy for all geospatial information. The modern version of this antenna pairs with all of the existing Zeno handheld devices.

It can collect high-accuracy data in real-time using RTK technology while applying PPP (Precise Point Positioning).

It’s IP68-rated for durability, hence its use in some of the most demanding and hardy areas, with zero need for a mobile data connection. It’s lightweight and compact.

It also offers enhanced data tracking performance thanks to the 555-channel support with an increasing number of satellites, future-proof GNSS developments, and state-of-the-art technologies. Its performance is enhanced by its smart device independence and extensive software support.

The benefit of using the Leica Zeno gg04 is that it offers users an industry-leading 555 channel tracking power through portable devices such as mobile phones. It is even better than compatible with the variations of android, windows, and intelligent apple devices.

When used in the construction industry, the rugged, easy-to-use, and flexible antenna has been equipped with RTK technology, thus applying precise positioning. 

The above encourages accurate data collection in real-time, and mind you; you don’t need mobile data to access this service even if your group is demanding.

Pros

• It can be used with a Bluetooth connection
• Works with your current tablet or smartphone

Cons

• Requires high-end hardware for data processing

5. Leica BLK360 ($7,999.00) – Smallest, Lightest Laser Imaging Scanner

The Leica BLK360 is the smallest, lightweight imaging laser scanner around. If you need something nifty but ultra-powerful, it could be an excellent imaging laser scanner for your construction business.

It allows for standard, high, and fast-resolution scanning, with a full-dome scan in the formal resolution taking 3 minutes. It also boasts 150MP generation for spherical images.

This laser scanner takes the best full-color panoramic images overlaid on high-accuracy point clouds. They are easy to use, operable on your iPad, and enhance automation workflows while streamlining the entire capture process. You don’t have to be a survey professional to use this scanner.

The Leica blk360 is one of the simplest Leica Laser Scanners; given that it is operated with the push of a button, the unit’s effectiveness comes into action with its ability to capture full-color panoramic images that have been overlaid on a high-accuracy point cloud.

The unit has also been configured to allow users to spend less time processing data, thus dedicating their time to creating meaningful deliverables thanks to the incorporated simple export process of the LGS and RCP files.

Pros

• Offers high dynamic range and thermal imaging
• Allows users to scan in high standards and fast resolutions

Cons

• Might need new software purchase or update

6. Leica RTC360 ($58,000.00) – Best for Fast 3D Reality Capturing

RTC360 Leica 3D Laser will automatically pre-register your point-to-cloud data out in the field, allowing you to quickly run a quality control check, hence higher productivity and smart decisions onsite.

It’s highly portable, automated, intuitive, and a 3D scanner designed for productivity and high-level performance.  It captures high-dynamic-range/ HDR images in under two minutes. It’s also agile, precise, and fast and allows for detailed data capture augmentation to reflect the reality on site.

The construction environment is dynamic because of the many activities and processes undertaken. But by utilizing the relevant hardware, you will be able to get things done fast and accurately; one such hardware is the Leica rtc360, which is simple to use but accurate.

If you have complex projects that you need to manage without blotting your finances, then the rtc360 laser scanner is your professional solution.

Pros

• The laser scanner will enrich the high dynamic range imagery in less than two minutes.
• The devices need little manual assistance and automatically record your moves from station to station.

Cons

• Has issues with stability

7. Leica ScanStation P40 – Best High-Speed HD 3D Scanner

This high-definition Leica 3D laser scanning device runs on the best integrated 3D laser solutions to offer unimaginable scanning speeds, high accuracy, and the capacity to handle the most demanding scanning projects.

It’s ideal for use in civil infrastructures and significant industry complex representations and the generation of 3D data for easy integration into BIM (Building Information Modelling). This Leica 3D Laser scanner boasts one of the fastest scan rates for HDR imaging at 1 million points/ second, up to 270m.

It boasts a high level of angular accuracy and unsurpassed range paired with the survey-grade and low-range noise dual-axis compensation form for foundations, with the most realistic story of clarity.

The angle with which the Leica scan station P40 approaches the dynamics of laser scanning in the construction industry gives it a better competitive edge. For one, it creates an as-built representation of a large industry complex and can generate 3D data that can be integrated into building information modeling (BIM).

Leica scanstation P40 is a high-performance unit that reduces downtime while offering the best performance under harsh environmental conditions. The scanning solutions provided by this unit are comprehensive; you will get the hardware, software, training, support, and services.

Pros

• The scan station P30/P40 delivers low-range noise
• Users will get highly detailed 3D color points

Cons

• The instrument is not easy to use

8. Leica ScanStation C10 ($10,999.00) – All-in-one Laser Scanning Solution

The Leica ScanStation C10 is an all-in-one laser scanner that can be used in any application. It’s regarded as the new scanning standard for all the pulsed scanners on the market as it is compact and easy to use.

This ScanStation C10 features a scanner, data storage, controller, battery, and video camera. It also boasts significant advancements in productivity and versatility, not to mention the best High-Definition Surveying (HDS).

All these are made possible by the scanner’s entire field of view, excellent range, a high degree of accuracy, traverse, and surveyor-friendliness.

The Leica scanstation c10 features a long-range scanner, meaning it will be effective even when located at a far, safe distance. The portable unit has incorporated a battery, an auto-adjusting video camera, a data storage option, a controller, and a laser plummet in one mobile unit.

Another advancement meant to enhance the scanner’s productivity is the smart-x-mirror, which allows the conduct of full-dome scans via the spinning mirror.

Pros

• The laser scan station is versatile.
• The. unit is compact, highly accurate, and portable

Cons

• The price is on the higher side

9. Leica ScanStation P50 ($35,000.00) – Long-Range Terrestrial Laser Scanner

The ScanStation P50 is an excellent addition to the range of long-range ScanStations on the market, and this one is specifically designed for use in terrestrial laser scanning.

It enhances your team’s productivity by making it possible to quickly scan previously inaccessible places from a safe position while onsite, hence reducing time spent on the field and less setup time. It’s ideal for use in industrial settings

it’s fast and suitable for use in challenging conditions and temperature extremes (-20°C and highs of + 50°C) thanks to its IP54 rating (dust and water resistance).

It’s a complete scanning device/ solution with integrations for a leading survey and design software for the best performance.

Professionals in the construction business can now slow down their search for a laser scanner to penetrate hard-to-reach areas. The P50 scanner has been configured to increase productivity if used to scan from a safe position on site. You can expect to use less time in the field but with high performance.

Like the other Leica systems, the unit performs exceptionally well even under challenging environmental conditions; users also don’t have to worry about the effects of dust and water thanks to the IP54 resistance rating.

Pros

• Provides high-quality HDR imaging and 3D data
• Features a low-range noise

Cons

• Requires training before usage

10. Leica GS16 ($8,800.00) – GNSS Self-Learning Smart Antenna

Leica GS16 is a high-accuracy, self-learning, add reliable smart GNSS antenna. It works with RTK technology and meets the highest measurement standards for RTKPlus and SmartLink features, making it one of the smartest scanners in the GNSS ecosystem.

The design of the antennas means that more satellite signals are captured, as RTKPlus adapts intelligently to changing conditions, hence the delivery of very accurate positioning specifics.

This antenna works with Leica’s Captivate software to turn complex collected data into realistic and easily workable 3D models. And by working with the Leica Infinity software, data processing speeds are enhanced, as you enjoy infinite possibilities.

The Advanced Leica gs16 offers real-time operations that allow coordination from the site to the office thanks to the captivate that captures and organizes data in the field and the infinity software that ensures smooth and real-time transmission of information.

Additionally, the Leica software turns complex data into a realistic and workable 3D model; using this unit is pretty straightforward. It has incorporated a standard touch technology, meaning that all the collected data can be viewed from different dimensions.

Pros

• The send-and-receive data service discourages costly construction site visits.
• Offers uninterrupted, accurate positioning

Cons

• Needs software upgrade

Conclusion

Leica Laser Scanners run on the most reliable, sophisticated, and engaging software that delivers accurate geospatial results. Investing in GNSS smart antennas and scanners would be an excellent investment in the construction business, especially in remote areas or large projects.

Even as a surveyor, you need these devices for Your Construction Business during this Coronavirus Pandemic. The antennas and scanners above are best for you to try.