360-degree data collection yields 2,500 times more data points in a single second than traditional surveying gathers in an entire day
INDIANAPOLIS (Nov. 30, 2022) – HNTB has deployed the MX9 Mobile LiDAR Mapping System, an innovative surveying method that uses light detection and ranging technology. The new mapping system provides clients with highly precise, three-dimensional hard-surface scanning that yields 2,500 times more data points in a single second than traditional surveying gathers in an entire day.
“The added efficiency and cost savings of this technology is a significant value add for our clients,” said Dave McDougall, HNTB Indiana office leader and senior vice president. “With the greater detail and precision available, it will allow clients to make more informed decisions at a project’s onset while also significantly enhancing safety.”
The MX9 mounts on the roof of a vehicle and rapidly captures panoramic and multi-angle images. Unlike traditional surveying, the MX9 can capture data at 55 miles per hour without sending crews onto dangerous highways, and without the need to stop, or even slow, roadway traffic resulting in a seamless, data-rich picture of the roadway infrastructure.
“A traditional two-person survey crew, on a good day, collects about 800 data points,” said HNTB Geospatial and LiDAR Mapping section manager, William Jones. “With this technology we can collect 2 million data points per second, which means that the data is much denser and more precise to provide clients a better picture of what’s going on.”
By capturing a 360-degree picture, the technology can pick up cracks, waves and other hard-to-detect surface flaws that traditional technology may miss. The mapping system also identifies the location and condition of signage and other assets, including tunnels and rail lines.
“We are confident this technology will be a game changer in the surveying and mapping industry and look forward to continuing the deployment of the MX9 system on projects across the country,” said Jones.