MoreRiegl USA, Orlando, Fla., announced the new 3D-RiScan Pro software update used in the company's Z-Series 3D laser scanners product line. The companion software is used to capture, store and manipulate scan data in a very user-friendly project structure.
Added Functionality
Riegl's 3D-RiScan Pro software update includes many new functions that increase field usability and improve scan data handling. New features in this 3D-RiScan Pro version include the ability to merge scans in 3D while in the field to preview "shadow" areas that may require additional scanning for full coverage. Field users can then quickly identify "shadow" areas and reposition the laser scanner to capture these missing data points.
"High Resolution" Photogrammetric functionality is now handled by 3D RisScan Pro. A high-resolution digital camera is mounted on top of the laser scanner and takes a series of photos covering the field of view of the scan data. The camera's orientation is defined with respect to the laser scanner's coordinate system and the photo images are registered. 3D-RiScan Pro's project-based system stores these images along with scan data, signal points (reflecting targets) and data used to tie multiple data into a common well-defined coordinate system. The software uses the high resolution images to texture scan data that represents true orthophotos with depth and coordinate information.
When used in conjunction with Riegl's new "High Accuracy" LMS-Z360 and other Riegl scanners, the 3D-RiScan Pro edge detection and data smoothing processes increase accuracy of merged scans in a project. The Z360's laser beam spot size can be adjusted to improve edge and fine object definition.
Robust Versatility
3D-RiScan Pro's versatility lies in its ability to offer smooth data transfer to various post-processing software packages including InnovMetric's PolyWorks and Microstation (Bentley). These post-processing packages allow users to further manipulate scan data to meet project needs.
Other 3D-RiScan Capabilities
Riegl's 3D-RiScan allows the user to embed scan data into a global coordinate system. When using well-known coordinates, often reflective targets with global coordinates obtained by total stations, and scanning multiple reflective targets at each scan position, scans can be quickly merged in the field with single precision coordinate values. The 3D-RiScan software uses automatic reflector extraction and auto-merging technologies to perform these steps quickly and flawlessly.
Another capability is the ability to construct objects based on point cloud data. For example, after scanning an architectural target from various scanning positions, 3D-RiScan can construct the building's roof based on partial scan data, adding the ability to create an accurate and photo-realistic 3D model as well as build complete "fly throughs" of projects.
Source: Riegl USA, July 2005
