Tough Laser Survey Technology for Mining

Three words that impress mine surveyors are tough, reliable and accurate. This is exactly how Maptek (Australia) describes its latest I-Site laser scanning technology which will be launched at MINExpo in Las Vegas, USA, this week. The I-Site 8810 with I-Site Studio 4.0 software is a combination developed for the daily practice of fieldwork.

The I-Site 8810 retains the long range and panoramic imaging capability of the I-Site 8800 and adds some of the must-have features of the I-Site 8400 laser scanner, plus provides some upgrades of its own. A wireless link means the scanner controller no longer needs to be tethered. A new interface and layout make for greater flexibility and faster set up. Battery time extends continuous operation to 6 hours.

Onboard controls mean that the I-Site 8810 can be operated in the field with no other peripherals attached. Optional onboard USB or tablet PC scan storage makes data easier to handle.

An integrated compass enables even easier vehicle scanning and registration. A new calibration for the vehicle mount removes the impact of the vehicle on the compass, allowing uninterrupted capture of reliable data.

Operation is simpler with the one controller for both the scanner and GPS through an integrated GPS interface. The Panasonic Toughbook is the most rugged tablet in the world, with an extended temperature range and solid-state hard disk.

The I-Site 8810 is scanner is developed for extremes. Operation at sub-zero temperatures has been extended, and the storage temperature has been extended to minus 40 degrees. The Maptek I-Site 8000 series scanners are rated to IP65 for environmental protection. Maptek’s pulse algorithm automatically analyses the multiple waveform returns, giving the I-Site 8810 scanner an accuracy of 8mm out to 200 metres. This makes it suitable for more detailed survey applications.

The I-Site 8810 is teamed with I-Site Studio 4.0 software for faster processing. Dynamic scan manipulation, and improved photo image registration are just a couple of features. Customised toolbars, point attributes and LAS import are all new to I-Site Studio 4.0.

Maptek is at Booth 6062 during MINExpo in Las Vegas from 24 to 26 September 2012 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.