This year at DCW, we partnered with Leica Geosystems and its new BLK autonomous solutions to bring you a UK exclusive series of live demonstrations at the show, featuring the Leica BLK ARC autonomous laser scanning module for robots combined with Spot from Boston Dynamics.
Read on to learn more about what Senior Engineer Valentina Albano has to say about the new sensors that were on show.
What does “ARC” in BLK ARC stand for?
ARC is short for Autonomous Reality Capture. The BLK ARC allows for a new level of autonomy, helping you eliminate extra work and gain efficiency. It removes the need for human intervention when scanning dangerous or hard-to-reach areas, such as site inspections in risky locations like mines or power plant facilities or quick documentation after ecological or environmental disasters. BLK ARC also helps perform frequent on-site checks by repeating the same data capture process over a set time for efficient as-built verification. These are just a few of the possible scenarios and applications for the BLK ARC.
What improvements do I gain on-site with the BLK ARC?
With the BLK ARC laser scanning module, not only can you minimize or remove human intervention but also secure workers’ safety due to remote operation. You can also capture static and mobile scans during the same mission that are automatically registered together and then upload to the HxDR cloud platform—allowing you to instantly view and share the data. You can quickly maximize productivity by reducing on-site time, planning scan missions offline, and automatically uploading scan data to the HxDR cloud. You’ll also optimize repetitive data capture tasks by using the BLK ARC for routine, autonomous scanning of site conditions, such as daily scans or timeline scans.
How does BLK ARC autonomy function?
The BLK ARC module enables autonomous robotic navigation and scanning through our GrandSLAM technology, combining three powerful SLAM methods: LiDAR SLAM, visual SLAM, and an IMU.
With LiDAR SLAM, different surfaces and unique geometry are identified and then analyzed to calculate its 3D position. In Visual SLAM, three panoramic cameras identify similarities between consecutive images to calculate the scanner’s movement through 3D space. And in IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), movements are sensed to calculate the change of position in 3D space. With the GrandSLAM technology of the BLK ARC, you can rely on the accurate autonomous movement in any area you use it.
How does the BLK ARC use GrandSLAM technology?
The BLK ARC uses Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) to position, orient, & navigate itself through 3D space to capture images and dimensionally accurate point clouds in real-time. With GrandSLAM technology, the BLK ARC collects 3D data of whatever area you put it in, identifying on its own through its integrated technology how to maneuver and acquire scans, photos, and measurements.
The Boston Dynamics Spot robot uses its close-range perception system to walk through spaces and overcome obstacles on its path. The BLK ARC then applies real-time scanning and GrandSLAM technology to enhance navigational accuracy in more challenging environments.
How do you operate the BLK ARC?
The BLK ARC operates through a browser-based user interface, where you can control robot trajectory and cameras, create user profiles, manage scan settings, and control the robot carrier. You can also perform offline mission planning in Cyclone 3DR remotely and upload those scan missions to the BLK ARC through the UI. Once the mission is complete, BLK ARC UI helps direct the data either into our legacy software, Leica Cyclone, or direct upload from the field to HxDR.
How do I map missions offline?
You can create scan paths for the BLK ARC remotely by using existing drawings, CAD models, or BIM models of a building or area from your computer, wherever you are. The mission can be sent to the robot via an internet connection, which means there’s no need for human intervention while completing its mission. And in case of significant changes on-site, such as construction progress, you can modify and adapt a scan path using the existing BIM model without going back to the field.
How is the BLK ARC “versatile?”
The BLK ARC is a module designed to be used on any robot, and anywhere the robot goes, so do the capabilities of the BLK ARC. As the BLK ARC offers offline mission planning, you can enjoy the flexibility of having the BLK ARC scan on its own and give you the data when you need it. BLK ARC also offers the versatility of capturing two types of scans during the same mission: static scans, which are best for accurate, dense, and crisp point clouds where higher data quality is needed, and mobile scans for faster data collection in larger environments where productivity is key.
How durable is the BLK ARC?
The BLK ARC has protection bars integrated into the mounting plate with a sleek and straightforward design protecting the hardware against physical damage. Be sure to comply with all handling and care instructions to ensure safety.
Will the BLK ARC work on different robots?
Yes. Currently, the BLK ARC is compatible with Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot, but soon the BLK ARC will be compatible with many different robotic platforms and carriers.
The Leica BLK ARC at DCW
Visitors to DCW 2021 experienced this ground-breaking technology in action in a mock construction environment on the show floor, alongside a presentation exploring autonomy in the built environment.
The next edition of DCW takes place on 18-19 May 2022. Register for your free ticket today and join us to get hands-on with even more ground-breaking technology.