Trimble Develops Next Generation 3D Laser Scanner for Industrial Plant Applications

SUNNYVALE, Calif — Trimble has introduced the Trimble CX 3D laser scanner with Trimble's proprietary WAVEPULSE™ technology. WAVEPULSE combines the high short-range accuracy of phase-shift technology with the low-noise sensitivity and high-distance characteristics of time-of-flight technology. The result is high-precision measurements over the full operating range that provides the clean 3D data needed for industrial plant scanning applications—allowing the user to realize increased productivity and reduced operating costs. And by requiring fewer setups and enabling faster processing time in an industrial plant environment, the Trimble CX solution can contribute to improved worker safety.

The Trimble CX solution is built for efficient data capture in the plant. With reliable scanning at 50,000 points per second and an 80 meter range with a 360 degree x 300 degree field of view, the solution provides widespread and efficient data capture from a single setup. A rugged design, IP54 rating and protective housing for the rotating laser allow the scanner to deliver continuous and reliable results even in difficult industrial environments. An integrated camera collects additional image information that can improve the visualization, post-processing and communication of the captured data.

The Trimble CX is supported by Trimble Access™ software for Spatial Imaging, which runs on the Trimble Tablet rugged PC. Powerful and built for industrial conditions, the Trimble Tablet combines a large, daylight readable display, IP67 environmental rating and long battery life that can easily withstand the demands of plant environments. With intuitive and streamlined Trimble Access Software, capturing data with the Trimble CX requires a very short learning curve. Data can be seamlessly transferred to Trimble's 3D scanning office software packages: Trimble RealWorks™ and Trimble LASERGen™ software.

Certified Application for Tank Measurements

The Trimble CX solution also includes 3D Extractor software specifically developed for storage tank calibration. The software can significantly reduce the time taken to calibrate storage tanks while also providing a richer data set that can be used for monitoring tank deformations. The Trimble CX is certified by the Physikalisch-Technischen Bundesanstalt (the German National Metrology Institute, PTB).

An Integral Solution for Plant Lifecycle Management

Managing a plant's lifecycle requires a clear understanding of the location and condition of the plant's assets. The Trimble CX 3D laser scanning solution can be used for a variety of industrial plant positioning applications:

* Capturing existing condition data for accurate project planning for basic and detailed design;
* Ensuring dimensions of fabricated parts prior to transportation and installation;
* Verifying as-built construction for quality assurance and additional detailed design;
* Visualizing real world conditions for training and simulation;
* Monitoring plant assets and potential movement or deformation during use;
* Planning retrofit construction projects based upon accurate data and;
* Calibrating storage tanks by determining filling tables and sump volumes.

The Trimble CX is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2009.