Revolutionizing Surveying Workflows with Handheld LiDAR Scanners

In the ever changing landscape of Philadelphia, where historical architecture sits across the street from modern engineering marvels, the importance of precise surveying in construction, industrial inspection, and geospatial mapping cannot be overstated. Here, at the heart of such technological advancements, we find the emerging field of handheld LiDAR scanners, a groundbreaking tool in the realm of reality capture.

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The future of reality capture

The concept of reality capture isn't new, but the way we're doing it with handheld LiDAR scanners is uprooting traditional surveying workflows. Imagine walking through a construction site, an industrial complex, or a historical landmark with a device that captures a 3D point cloud of your environment in real-time.

That's exactly what handheld LiDAR scanners do. They use Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to accurately measure distances, creating high-resolution digital twins of physical spaces.

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ExynAI: the brain behind the brawn

What really sets the ExynPak apart is ExynAI, our proprietary post-processing pipeline. It's not just about collecting data; it's about making sense of it. ExynAI ensures that the data captured is accurate, reducing drift and errors, turning raw data into a reliable map or digital twin that professionals can trust. After quickly capturing a high fidelity 3D point cloud, ExynAi is unleashed to smooth, eliminate non-static points, downsample, and even colorize point clouds that can be exported into a variety of geospatial industry software. 

This is the algorithm at the heart of ExynAI which powers the autonomous ExynAero and portable ExynPak.

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How Does SLAM Work?

Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM) is a complex algorithm that allows a robot, such as an autonomous drone, to map an unknown environment while simultaneously tracking its position within it. It's particularly vital in navigating GPS-denied areas such as underground terrain. 

SLAM can use various sensors to visualize its surroundings, including LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras. LiDAR-based SLAM uses a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor to “see” its environment. Here’s how that process works:

  • A LiDAR sensor emits laser pulses and measures the time it takes for the laser to reflect from surrounding objects.
  • ExynAI creates a 3D point cloud map of its environment by analyzing where these points are in relation to the robot's internal measurement unit (IMU)
  • ExynAI then transforms the dense point cloud map into a voxel grid to estimate its position, allowing it to find safe flight corridors and navigate its environment intelligently.
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Pros of using LiDAR-based 3d laser scanner: 

  • GPS-Independent: SLAM systems function in enclosed spaces with feature-rich environments where GPS is degraded or unavailable. 
  • No Light, No Problem: LiDAR-based SLAM systems can operate with little to no light, making it perfect for overnight inspections, search & rescue, and surveying hard to reach areas. 
  • Real-Time Mapping: SLAM systems create maps on the go, adapting to dynamic obstacles while capturing a complete, accurate 3D model. 
  • Survey-Grade Accuracy: after capture, rich 3D point clouds can be post processed and geo-referenced for survey grade accuracy directly onsite via a ruggedized tablet. 
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Industrial Applications for Handheld LiDAR Scanners

Advantages of Handheld LiDAR Scanners

Mobility and Versatility One of the biggest advantages of a handheld 3D scanner is their mobility. The ExynPak, in particular, is designed for ease of transport and use in various environments – from the narrow streets of South Philly to the open landscapes of the Pennsylvania countryside.
Speed and Efficiency The ExynPak significantly reduces the time taken to capture and process data, allowing teams to move faster from planning to execution. A portable 3D scanning solution can be quickly set up and used, allowing for faster data collection compared to setting up stationary systems. Exyn's handheld scanner offers real-time data processing, enabling immediate analysis and decision-making on-site.
Safety in Challenging Environments In GPS-denied or hazardous environments, traditional survey methods can be risky and inefficient. The ExynPak offers a safer alternative, allowing for remote mapping without compromising on accuracy. The ability to scan from a distance reduces the need for personnel to access potentially hazardous or unstable areas. Handheld 3D scanning allows for data collection in sensitive areas without the need for disruptive setup or equipment.
Cost-Effectiveness Lower Operational Costs: The reduced need for extensive setups, fewer personnel, and quicker data collection can translate to lower overall operational costs. Their cost-effectiveness makes handheld LiDAR scanners and mapping technology a more feasible option for smaller or less-funded projects.

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3D scanning technology, particularly the ExynPak powered by ExynAI, represent the future of surveying in construction, industrial inspection, and geospatial mapping. At Exyn Technologies, we're proud to be leading this charge from our Philly headquarters, combining cutting-edge technology with local know-how. Whether it's for mapping a historic site, inspecting an industrial facility, or planning a new development, the ExynPak is the go-to portable scanner for professionals who value accuracy, efficiency, and safety.

Remember, in the world of SLAM technology, it's not just about seeing the big picture; it's about capturing every detail. And that's exactly what the ExynPak from Exyn Technologies does. So, let's map our way into the future, one point cloud at a time, right here from the City of Brotherly Love.

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