FTG ENG | eBooks

06 / Trimble / Choosing the Right Layout Solution for Your Construction Projects what to look for in a robotic layout station A robotic layout solution is an easy-to-use tool that can be just as easy to implement. You can use this five-step process to help you evaluate solutions, make the best decision for your needs, and start experiencing the advantages of robotic layout for yourself. Step 1: Define your requirements Before you decide on a robotic layout solution, you want to make sure it provides the features and capabilities that are most important for your needs. Developing a list of these requirements will give you a well-defined process for evaluating specific vendor solutions. Here are some questions you'll want to answer as you define your specific requirements: Is it easy to learn and use? Why it's important: When you want layout professionals to give up familiar methods and make the switch to technology tools like a robotic layout station, you need to make it as easy as possible. Easy operation and intuitive workflows allow you to efficiently train new workers and ensure adoption of the new technology. Is it compact and rugged? You don't need a tool that's unwieldy and hard to work with or susceptible to damage. A small and durable design provides the ultimate in functionality and ensures the tool will stand up to the demands of your work. Does it offer auto-positioning capabilities? Why it's important: Having to manually level or calibrate the tool takes time and skill. Automated leveling and calibration functionalities make setup much faster and easier, while also ensuring precision when laying out points. Does it provide both a laser pointer and prism pole operation? Why it's important: Using a laser pointer with a 300-degree vertical field of tilt allows you to easily mark points on ceilings and other horizontal surfaces, as well as measure steep angles. A prism pole allows you to measure existing elevations. A tool that supports both will increase the speed and accuracy with which these typically challenging measurements can be taken. Can the tool be operated with a handheld tablet or device? Why it's important: A solution that allows you to work with a handheld device gives you freedom to move around the site and point, visualize, and position the tool from wherever you are. There's no need for an eyepiece, because the device allows you to see what the tool sees, capture images with the device's camera, and overlay data onto those images, bringing greater flexibility, efficiency, and reporting capability to the layout process.

• Cover