Maptek’s new I-Site 8200 ‘builds-in’ underground workflow
Mining tech pioneer Maptek Pty Ltd. on Friday debuted a new laser scanner designed specifically for underground survey applications such as measuring voids, drives, tunnels and stopes, and handling interior silo survey and stockpile measurements.
In demanding underground operations, the focus is on safety and ease of setup, requiring comprehensive scan coverage and getting an accurate model in the fastest time possible.
South Australia-based Maptek, with U.S. operations in Lakewood, Colo., said its new I-Site 8200 is ultra-versatile and features a coordinated development of all elements – scanner, accessories, scan control interface, and processing software – to “build in” underground workflow from the get go.
“As well as stepping into the surveyors’ boots to think about workflow, we bring the highest quality technical engineering to ensure portability, speed and stability without compromising accuracy,” said Maptek Manager of Laser Scanning Solutions, Athy Kalatzis. “We talk to customers. The extendable carbon fiber boom, hatch bracket and vehicle mounts have all been designed following trials and feedback.”
The I-Site 8200 has a scan window of -35 to 90 degrees vertically and 360 degrees horizontally with a 125-degree scanning aperture. The scanner’s integrated leveling automatically corrects scans before processing, whatever its orientation.
The boom extends up to 10 meters into a tunnel or over a void, and the quick release mechanism allows the scanner to be easily removed. The 3D view of the scan on the controller helps the surveyor or geologist see inside the stope.
“Maptek scanning systems are purpose-designed, but maintain a level of operational flexibility,” Kalatzis said. “We are aware that a surveyor might move from underground stopes to above ground stockpiles in the same shift. The I-Site 8200 laser scanner is versatile enough to handle the transition.”
The new scanner also has 3D view in scan control software, and scan data can be processed using Maptek’s I-Site Studio and I-Site Void software.
“We can safely scan underground, and survey inaccessible or dangerous environments,’ said Kalatzis. “We can mount our I-Site 8200 on a vehicle underground to survey drives, and tailor the instrument for specific applications such as pre and post shotcrete fill.”
Maptek said all its scanners under the I-Site brand have a signature discriminator – workflow, and the I-Site 8200 is no exception. It has all the hallmarks of the company’s existing I-Site line of scanners, including an integrated hardware and software system for 3D laser scanning, surveying and imaging.
Other features include:
- speed and accuracy of data collection
- portability
- rugged industrial design
The I-Site 8200 is rated to IP65. Australian field trials proved the scanner’s reliable operation in the underground environment. Maptek also produces I-Site 8810 and 8400 laser scanners targeting long range survey applications.
