Laser-scanning Software Adds Features and Functionality
Maptek has released version 3.5 of its laser-scan modeling software, I-Site Studio. This version, according to the supplier, includes
general enhancements in performance and usability. Filtering can
now be done based on point selection, rather than the entire scan
dataset. When used in conjunction with the new freehand or polygonal lasso selection tools, it reduces the time required to remove
stray points caused by dust or other transient objects. The ability to
quickly create a 3-D PDF means that rotatable models can be
shared with others who don't have specialized viewing software. I-Site Studio 3.5 users can also export to a Universal 3-D file, allowing information to be immediately shared with decision makers at
all levels. The I-Site Studio release coincides with the launch of a
dedicated geotechnical module that offers more extensive tools
than basic Studio. Stereonet plots allow users to plot slope and slope direction (dip and strike) onto a two-dimensional graph, helping to identify discontinuity sets and analyze the stability of
rock slopes. Contours can be added for pin-pointing data of interest. Rose diagrams
reveal the frequency of data vs. the direction of the data for identifying directional
trends. Coloring surfaces by the dip or strike
values of the individual facets helps to
highlight discontinuities and planar areas,
making it easy to see fractures. Overlapping
surfaces that have been scanned at different times can be compared to reveal extent
and rate of movement; for example, to identify a slow-moving failure in an open-pit
mine. Surfaces can be tinted based on
changes from a previous surface and data
can be exported to measure distances from
previous and base surface measurements.
www.maptek.com/products/i-site
As featured in Womp 2011 Vol 08 - www.womp-int.com