Leica Geosystems Introduces Tunnel Measurement System

Leica Geosystems has introduced a new suite of integrated hardware and software solutions for the tunnel construction industry, which will provide increased precision, automation and efficiency for tunneling operations.

The new Leica Tunnel Measurement System (TMS) makes use of a Leica TPS1200 series reflectorless robotic total station and newly developed onboard and office application programs specifically developed for conventional tunnel construction.

Leica TMS was developed in cooperation with Amberg Messtechnik AG, Switzerland and is based on the extensive tunneling experience of the Amberg Group of Companies.

The TMS application programs include TMS SETout, TMS PROfile, and TMS Office. TMS SETout is a versatile setout tool that can be used on a mobile tripod for one-man setout or as a stationary console-mounted motorized round-the-clock surveyor. TMS PROfile provides automatic profile measurement for precise geometric information, exact profile compliance and reliable calculations for quantity surveying. TMS Office is used for tunnel profile design, provides multiple TMS applications, all running within a single database, and encompasses management of all measurements, setout and survey point data for every TMS software application module. Data for the full tunneling project is exported to the total station using a PCMCIA or compact flash card, allowing the total station to operate on the design data anywhere in the tunnel.

TMS SETout uses the remotely controlled reflectorless robotic total stations for rapid, efficient one-man setout of points with predefined coordinates. The TMS SETout PLUS program is designed for operation as a motorized tunnel laser by the tunneling construction crew without the need for a surveyor on the job.

TMS PROfile, which is comprised of the TMS PROscan and PROscan PLUS onboard software and TMS PROfit analysis packages, provides precise geometric data, continuous comparison of design vs. actual profiles and reliable quantity calculations. PROscan and PROscan PLUS deliver precise 3D measurement data, while TMS PROfit performs intelligent, results-oriented analysis.

Gerard Manley, vice president engineered solution sales, observed that the new Tunnel Measuring System packages offer unique user benefits. "The TMS programs provide long-term access to all project data and geometric elements directly on the total station without the need for separate field computers and time-consuming coordinate calculations. With all project data onboard, it is easy to switch between various construction tasks seamlessly and handle ad hoc work as it arises. Routine surveying tasks are performed automatically, increasing productivity and minimizing downtime. The modular software packages are scalable to meet specific job requirements, and the logical straightforward user interface makes it easy for the system to be used by both skilled surveyors and tunnel construction crews alike."

The TMS systems have been thoroughly field tested on a number of European tunnel construction jobs, and are now being introduced into the American market, according to Manley.

Leica Geosystems, with worldwide headquarters in Heerbrugg, Switzerland, develops, manufactures and markets systems for surveying, mapping and position determination. The company has a turnover of almost 700 million Swiss francs and is listed on the Swiss Exchange. Leica currently has 2,370 employees, with 600 located in the United States. It is structured in six divisions: Surveying and Engineering, GIS and Mapping, Metrology, Special Products, Consumer Products and New Businesses. Along with the Swiss facilities, the company also has development and production subsidiaries in America and Asia. Leica Geosystems has 20 wholly-owned sales subsidiaries worldwide and representation in more than 120 countries.

For sales inquiries contact Leica online at www.leica-geosystems.com or your local Leica dealer.

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