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Navvis VLX User Manual

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NAVVIS
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NavVis VLX
User Guide

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Summary of Contents for Navvis VLX

  • Page 1 NAVVIS NavVis VLX User Guide...
  • Page 2 NavVis VLX 3 vVis VLX 3 User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Checking the fit ......................36 Softwar Software Setup Instructions e Setup Instructions ....................................39 Updating the NavVis VLX System Software.............39 How to update the software................40 F F ormatting an SSD Car ormatting an SSD Card d ......................................43 Formatting an SSD card ................... 43 Formatting an external SSD via Script on Linux............44...
  • Page 4 Finishing the Dataset ....................89 Previewing Datasets....................90 Achie Achieving Accur ving Accurate Results ate Results ....................................93 Tips on scanning with the NavVis VLX ..............93 General Handling ....................96 Loop Closures ......................107 Loop Closures ....................107 Scanning Large Spaces ...................110 User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 5 ..................................138 Caring for your NavVis VLX ..................138 Attaching the Laser Scanner Cap................139 Replacing the NavVis VLX 2 Fan Filters ..............141 Replacing the NavVis VLX 3 Fan Filters ..............142 Cleaning the Camera Lenses .................143 Cleaning the Laser Scanners .................145 Cleaning the Display....................146 Cleaning the Housing .....................147...
  • Page 6 Backpack Accessory y ........................................154 Flying Flying ..................................................155 8. Specifications 8. Specifications ..........................................157 NavVis VLX 2 Specifications vVis VLX 2 Specifications ..................................157 Laser Scanners.......................157 Accuracy.........................157 Cameras .........................157 System operation ....................158 Display ........................158 Environment ......................159 Output........................159 Physical ........................160 Transportation Box....................160...
  • Page 7 NavVis VLX vVis VLX FCC Declar FCC Declaration of conformity ation of conformity ................................168 Statement of compliance with UK legislation Statement of compliance with UK legislation ......................168 Statement of compliance with Japan legislation Statement of compliance with Japan legislation ..........
  • Page 8 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 9: Intr 1. Introduction Oduction

    ▪ Coming soon a T T echnical Blog echnical Blog that deep dives into the NavVis technology used behind NavVis VLX Feedback If you would like to provide feedback on this NavVis VLX User Guide, please send an email to documentation@navvis.com User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 10: Navvis Vlx Intr Na Vvis Vlx Introduction Oduction

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Intr Introduction oduction NavVis VLX is the industry-leading, wearable mobile mapping system that efficiently delivers comprehensive, highly detailed reality capture data to laser scanning professionals for complex sites, both indoor and outdoor. ▪ Complete Co Complete Cov v er erage:...
  • Page 11 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Prerequisite Knowledge This documentation assumes that the user has a basic understanding of Lidar and point cloud technology. It is highly recommended that you take the free starter training available from the NavVis Academy. User Guide...

  • Page 12: Locating The Par Locating The Parts Of Y Ts Of Your Na Our Navvis Vlx Vvis Vlx

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX An overview of the different parts of NavVis VLX. NOTE: This device shown here is the NavVis VLX 3, but the corresponding parts are the  same across the NavVis VLX series. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 13 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 14: Navvis Vlx Saf Vvis Vlx Safety Pr Ety Precautions Ecautions

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX 2. Na 2. NavVis VLX Saf vVis VLX Safety Pr ety Precautions ecautions Safety The following section contains important safety information, read it carefully and always adhere to the instructions shown here. Definitions Definitions This section defines the hazard symbols shown in this User Guide.

  • Page 15: General Safety Notices

    The NavVis VLX is intended for professional use only. It should only be used by competent persons. A competent person is one who has been trained in the use of NavVis VLX by NavVis and who is familiar with the contents of this User Guide. Failure to comply with the advice given in this guide violates the safety standards of the intended device usage.
  • Page 16 A A ttention ttention ▪ Fragile components. ▪ Damage to the NavVis VLX. ▪ Always handle with care and pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid collisions. Do not drop. Do not crush. Do not use or store outside the recommended temperature range. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

  • Page 17: Laser Safety Information

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Laser Saf Laser Safety Information ety Information The NavVis VLX is equipped with Class 1 laser scanners that are safe under all conditions of normal use. W W arning arning ▪ Laser Radiation. ▪ Eye injury.

  • Page 18: Battery Safety Information

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Batter Battery Saf y Safety Information ety Information Lithium ion batteries contain a flammable electrolyte and must be handled according to these safety instructions. W W arning arning ▪ Explosion / burn hazard. ▪ May cause severe injury or death; electrolyte can burn skin and eyes.

  • Page 19: Hazardous_Environment

    The NavVis VLX is not certified for explosive or hazardous environments. Such hazardous environments can be oil plants, oil refineries, etc., and their description can be called Zone 2. More information on Zone 2 hazardous environments can be found here.

  • Page 20: Navvis Vlx Warning Message

    ▪ Go to the system settings and tap "Show Log" to view live logs. This window shows the system state in more detail. ▪ Take a screenshot of the system status and send it to NavVis technical support along with the log files (see Log Files) from the affected dataset.

  • Page 21: Setting Up Navvis Vlx Vvis Vlx

    3. Setting Up NavVis VLX vVis VLX Hardwar dware Setup Instructions e Setup Instructions This section contains information on how to setup the hardware of the NavVis VLX . Caution Caution Do not attempt to dismantle or repair your NavVis VLX. A A ttention ttention ▪...
  • Page 22 NavVis VLX vVis VLX NOTE: Only one person is required to perform all tasks.  NOTE: Time required for assembly of the device is approximately 10 minutes.  User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 23 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Contents of the box User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 24: Checking And Charging The Batteries

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Checking and Char Checking and Charging the Batteries ging the Batteries To begin scanning at least two batteries must be at 80% (4 out of 5 LED indicators on). Pr Procedur ocedure e Check the batter...
  • Page 25 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Insert the cable's blue plug into the blue socket of the charger adapter. Plug in the char Plug in the charger When the charger is plugged in, but no batteries are connected, the LED indicator turns green.
  • Page 26  during scanning, as the lifespan of the battery cells will decrease if the load is carried by only one battery. However, you can still operate NavVis VLX if the charge levels of the batteries do not match. User Guide...

  • Page 27: Adjusting The Size

    Pr Procedur ocedure e Remo Remov v e the scr e the screws With the NavVis VLX in the box, remove the two screws with the torque wrench provided. Adjust the siz Adjust the size e User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 28 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Slide the belt hook to the correct size. The device can be adjusted to the following height sizes: XS (Extra Small), S (Small), M (Medium), L (Large), and XL (Extra Large). Tighten the scr Tighten the screws...
  • Page 29 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Install the two screws with the torque wrench provided. Keep turning until you hear a sharp click. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 30: Unfolding And Switching On

    Pr Procedur ocedure e Unfold the Unfold the Na NavVis VLX vVis VLX Use the handle to unfold the NavVis VLX. Caution Caution Keep your fingers and clothes clear of the folding mechanism. Secur Secure the folding mechanism e the folding mechanism...
  • Page 31 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Tighten two locking screws shown with the torque wrench, until you hear a click (2.5 Nm). The NavVis VLX must rest in the box during this step. Inser Insert the SSD t the SSD User Guide...
  • Page 32 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Insert the SSD into the slot on the side of the NavVis VLX. Inser Insert the batteries t the batteries User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 33 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Insert the batteries into both mounts and ensure they are fully locked into position (you will hear a click). Remo Remov v e fr e from the bo om the box x User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 34 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Grasp the handle and frame, and remove the NavVis VLX from the box. Place on a le Place on a lev v el sur el surface face User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 35 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Place the NavVis VLX on a flat level surface such as a table or the floor. The belt hook and shoulder hooks must rest on the surface. Clean the sensors Clean the sensors User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 36 NavVis VLX vVis VLX If there is dust or fingerprints on the cameras or laser scanners, use a clean and dry microfiber cloth to clean them gently. Switch on the Switch on the Na NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide...
  • Page 37 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Press the power button on the side of the NNavVis VLX. Leave the device on a flat surface for 30 seconds until the device is ready (indicated with a beep). User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 38: Checking The Fit

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Checking the fit Checking the fit Pr Procedur ocedure e Putting on the belt Putting on the belt Fasten the belt tightly around your waist. The hook holster must face forward. The straps must not be twisted.
  • Page 39 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Put the hook into the holster of the belt and rest the shoulder hooks on your shoulders. T T esting the fit esting the fit User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 40 ▪ If too much weight is on your shoulders use one size larger. ▪ If too much weight is on your waist use one size smaller. To readjust the size, put the NavVis VLX back in the box, refer to Adjusting NOTE: ...

  • Page 41: Software Setup Instructions Softwar E Setup Instructions

    Help (?) menu, or from a reminder message on the Home Home screen. If the NavVis VLX System Software is older than three months , a reminder message and notification badge (red dot over the Settings Settings icon) displays in the main user interface.

  • Page 42: How To Update The Software

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX How t How to update the softwar o update the software e To update the NavVis VLX System Software from the reminder message, perform the following procedure. Befor Before y e you begin ou begin Connect the device to the internet via an Ethernet cable.
  • Page 43 NO NOT NOW T NOW on the reminder message, the reminder message will close, but the notification badge will remain until you update the NavVis VLX System Software. ▪ From the Home Home screen, tap the Help (?) Help (?) icon >...
  • Page 44 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Wait for the installation to finish. Tap FINISH FINISH. Restart the device. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 45: F F Ormatting An Ssd Car Ormatting An Ssd Card D

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX F F ormatting an SSD Car ormatting an SSD Card d F F ormatting an SSD car ormatting an SSD card d A SSD card pre-formatted is already supplied with your device. However if you want to purchase additional SSD cards and use them with the device, they must be correctly formatted.

  • Page 46: Formatting An External Ssd Via Script On Linux

    F F ormatting an external SSD via Script on Linux ormatting an external SSD via Script on Linux The following section describes how to format the external SSD on Linux. NavVis recommends formatting the external SSD using the provided Linux script. NOTE: ...

  • Page 47: Formatting An External Ssd On Ms Windows

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX F F ormatting an external SSD on MS Windows ormatting an external SSD on MS Windows The following section describes how to format the external SSD on MS Windows. Pr Procedur ocedure e Connect the SSD to an MS Windows PC with a USB cable.
  • Page 48 NavVis VLX vVis VLX From the Initialize Disk dialog, select the correct disk (Disk 2 in the example graphic),. For the partition style, select GPT (GUID Partition Table) and then click OK After initialization, the SSD shows as "Online". Right-click in the unassigned space and...
  • Page 49 NavVis VLX vVis VLX From the New Simple Volume Wizard, click Next Next. In the Simple volume size in MB field, click the arrows to select the simple volume size. Use the full size of the SSD. The default values should be OK.
  • Page 50 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Assign a drive letter to the disk to access it in File Explorer: a. Select Assign the following driv Assign the following drive letter e letter. . b. Click the arrow to select a drive letter.
  • Page 51 NavVis VLX vVis VLX a. In File system File system, select "exFAT". b. In Allocation unit siz Allocation unit size e , leave as "Default". c. In V V olume label olume label, enter "data". d. Select P P er erform a quick format form a quick format.

  • Page 52: Formatting An External Ssd To Exfat In Ubuntu

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX F F ormatting an external SSD t ormatting an external SSD to exF o exFA A T in Ubuntu T in Ubuntu The following section describes how to format the SSD drive for the exFAT file system in Ubuntu.
  • Page 53 NavVis VLX vVis VLX As the SSD drive is now unmounted, you can proceed to format it to exFAT. Execute the following command, substituting [LABEL] with a custom name for your SSD drive and [SSD_IDENTIFIER] with the device identifier: sudo mkfs.exfat -n data [SSD_IDENTIFIER] The formatting process will begin, and your SSD drive will be formatted to the exFAT file system.

  • Page 54: Using A New Ssd Formatted For Exfat From Windows

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Using a new SSD formatted for exF Using a new SSD formatted for exFA A T fr T from Windows Windows The following section describes how to format the SSD drive for the exFAT file system in windows.
  • Page 55 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 56: Using A New Ssd Formatted For Exfat From Linux

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Using a new SSD formatted for exF Using a new SSD formatted for exFA A T fr T from Linux om Linux The following section describes how to format the SSD drive for the exFAT file system in Linux.
  • Page 57 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Do not select the internal SSD with a 250 GB size NOTE:  Click the gear icon and select E E dit Filesystem… dit Filesystem… from the drop-down menu. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 58 NavVis VLX vVis VLX In the Labe Label field, type "data". Click Change Change. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 59: T T R R Anspor Ansporting Ting

    7. T 7. Tr r anspor ansport t Repacking Repacking Follow these instructions to repack your NavVis VLX back in the box. Pr Procedur ocedure e Place the Place the Na NavVis VLX vVis VLX in the bo in the box x Put the shoulder hooks into the box first.
  • Page 60 Place the belt into the slot at the back of the box. You must insert the lower side of the belt into the box first. If you purchased your NavVis VLX with six batteries, place the two extra batteries in the two compartments under the belt. Make sure all items are secure in the box.

  • Page 61: Transportation Box

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX T T r r anspor ansportation Bo tation Box x Meaning of the shipping marks on the NavVis VLX transportation box. Shipping Marks The item in the box is fragile Handle with care User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 62: Backpack Accessory

    ▪ Significant damage can occur to the device if the backpack is used to travel longer distances, such as in a plane, ship etc. ▪ We cannot accept the NavVis VLX if it is sent for maintenance in the backpack.

  • Page 63: Flying

    Flying Information about flying with the NavVis VLX as checked baggage. Most airlines classify the NavVis VLX as oversize baggage. You must book this with your airline before flying, and there may be an extra charge. Battery Preparation Before Flying...
  • Page 64 Caution ▪ Short-circuits. ▪ Damage to electronic components. ▪ After flying do not use NavVis VLX until it is at room temperature. Condensation may form inside the device when moving it from a cold to a hot environment. User Guide...

  • Page 65: Using The Na

    VLX System Intr Introduction oduction This section describes how to use the graphical user interface, how to use the functions and features, and how to achieve accurate results when you are scanning with the NavVis VLX system. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 66: Setup Onsite

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Setup Onsite Setup Onsite Pr Preparing the site for scanning eparing the site for scanning To ensure the quality of the scanned data, prepare the site so that you do not encounter any obstacles and are able to walk freely throughout the area being scanned.

  • Page 67: Starting The Navvis Vlx

    On button. 4. The NavVis System Software launches automatically after the system initializes. 5. If you need to start the software manually, tap the NavVis icon provided on the launcher bar to the left or on the desktop. 6. If this is the first time powering on the mobile mapping system, accept the license.
  • Page 68 Tap here to adjust the system volume and camera settings, gain access to log information, and ability to exit the application. ▪ Help butt Help button: on: Guidance on how to use the NavVis VLX and technical support information (see Help Menu). ▪ Batter Battery status y status:Tap the battery icons to see details.

  • Page 69: Calibrating The Accelerometer

    Accelerometer ometer The NavVis VLX automatically calibrates the accelerometer when powered on. The following screen is only displayed if there is a notification that asks you to manually calibrate the device. This manual calibration screen could display for example because the device was moved during the calibration.
  • Page 70 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Follow the instructions on the user interface to initialize SLAM. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 71: Naming Datasets

    Naming Datasets To help you identify your datasets, assign meaningful names, and determine which dataset contains which area. NavVis IVION uses the dataset names as labels in the datasets list. From the NavVis VLX main screen, tap New dataset New dataset to start a new dataset.
  • Page 72 It is recommended that the dataset name is unique. The dataset is always uniquely NOTE:  identified by the date and time of its creation. However, we recommend following the NavVis dataset naming convention: P P ar art of dataset name...
  • Page 73 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Period Apostrophe Round brackets Comma User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 74: Start Scanning

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Star Start Scanning t Scanning Star Start Scanning t Scanning Pr Procedur ocedure e Start the device Tap New Dataset New Dataset on the main screen. The system prompts the user to enter a name for the dataset before proceeding to the calibration steps.

  • Page 75: Controlling The View

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Contr Controlling the View olling the View You can interact with a live mapping view, zoom in, and zoom out in any area to check the coverage and also rotate the screen. Rotate the image like this:...

  • Page 76: Dashboard

    Dashboard d The dashboard display information and the controls required during the scan. The NavVis VLX dashboard shows the following information: ▪ The control point icon with the number of control points recorded. ▪ Start or pause icon for pausing and restarting the recording.
  • Page 77 NavVis VLX vVis VLX At the top of the dashboard, the status panel keeps track of: ▪ Time elapsed since the beginning of the scan. ▪ This gauge indicates your walking speed, informing you if you are walking or rotating too fast.

  • Page 78: Pausing The Scan

     To avoid impairing the quality of the recorded map, do not do not move faster or less carefully than normal. When you pause the NavVis VLX you can set it on the ground like this: User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 79 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 80: Triggering The Cameras

    An image is captured immediately when the camera button is pressed. As a result,  the images may contain motion blur if you are in motion. To trigger the cameras manually press the trigger button above the handle of the NavVis VLX. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 81: Smart Triggering Of Cameras

    ▪ After moving a set distance, a shutter sound will inform you that the mobile mapping system is ready to capture the next image. ▪ If you move or turn too quickly, or the NavVis VLX shakes, the cameras will not be triggered: The speed indicator at the top of the dashboard will display yellow.

  • Page 82: Navvis Vlx Cameras' Field Of View

    During stitching, input from all four of the cameras is taken into account to achieve a full panorama view. The cameras are arranged on the head of the NavVis VLX in a fixed position to enable their fields of view to overlap as much as possible.
  • Page 83 NavVis VLX vVis VLX NavVis VLX cameras' field of view sides. The illustrations show there are blind spots close to the camera head where none of the cameras can "see". This is how the operator is hidden from the images.

  • Page 84: Control Point Management

    On the NavVis VLX user interface, users can pan, rotate, zoom, and center the map during the scan to confirm what has already been scanned. After the NavVis VLX initializes, the default mode shows the pan button at the top left of the interface.
  • Page 85 NavVis VLX vVis VLX 2. To rotate the map view, tap the pan butt pan button on at the top left to switch to rotation mode. The r r otate butt otate button on appears at the top left to indicate the screen is in rotation mode.
  • Page 86 (0 meters) and is hidden. Previewing recorded images To preview recorded images during a scan with the NavVis VLX, follow these steps: 1. From the top right of the user interface, tap the image thumbnail. The scanning pauses and the captured images are displayed.
  • Page 87 NavVis VLX vVis VLX 3. From the panorama screen, tap a panorama to see a larger view of the panorama and the direction in which each image was captured (left, front, right back). 4. If you want to delete the selected panorama, tap the delete icon delete icon.
  • Page 88 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 89: Additional System Information

    Settings Tap Settings Settings above the mapping dashboard to access settings. When scanning with the NavVis VLX, this button can also be found in the right menu. Camer Camera Settings a Settings: ▪ Automatic Camera Triggering : If enabled, the cameras will trigger automatically once the mobile mapping system has moved by the minimum distance.
  • Page 90 The software will ask you to stop mapping if a severe error has occurred. NOTE: In the case of errors, read the error message carefully and refer to the  Troubleshooting instructions. Contact NavVis technical support with all available information. User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 91: Finish Scanning

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Finish Scanning Finish Scanning Finishing the Dataset Finishing the Dataset 1. Tap Finish Finish to finalize the mapping session and create a new dataset. 2. Confirm by tapping Y Y es es. A preview of the dataset is shown.

  • Page 92: Previewing Datasets

    NavVis VLX vVis VLX Pr Pre e viewing Datasets viewing Datasets 1. From the main screen, select Datasets Datasets. 2. From the Completed Datasets screen, select a dataset to preview. 3. Each saved dataset displays the following information: ▪ 2D map preview.
  • Page 93 NavVis VLX vVis VLX ▪ Duration of the scanning. ▪ Number of captured panoramas. ▪ Number of captured control points. 4. Tap on the magnifying glass icon and the Quality Map Re Quality Map Review view screen will display. ▪ Tap the X X to close the review screen.
  • Page 94 6. To see the direction that the panorama was captured (left, front, right back), select the desired panorama. To process the dataset, either upload them to NavVis IVION Processing, refer here, or if using NavVis Desktop Processing, transfer them to your processing machine and proceed there.

  • Page 95: Achieving Accur Achie Ving Accurate Results Ate Results

    Achieving Accur ving Accurate Results ate Results Tips on scanning with the Na Tips on scanning with the NavVis VLX vVis VLX The following describes some tips on achieving an accurate scan. Walking Speed Walk at a slow pace. This will help to ensure good quality.
  • Page 96 Dusty Environments The NavVis VLX is protected against dust during operation. If you scan in an environment with a lot of dust, the air intake and outlet vents on the NavVis VLX prevent dust from entering the device: ▪ The air intake vents have filters that keep dust out.
  • Page 97 5° to 35° Celsius (41° to 95° Fahrenheit), as well as in humid areas. The temperature range is determined by the built-in components of NavVis VLX such as the cameras or PC. If exposed to excessive heat, the integrated cooling system will be overloaded and other components like the CPU will not operate at their full capacity to save the device from overheating.

  • Page 98: General Handling

    The field of view (FoV) is the area detected by the cameras and laser scanners. A A ttention ttention Objects in the FoV will appear in the data collected by the NavVis VLX. Keep hands, arms, clothing, helmets, backpacks, and other objects out of the FoV while scanning.
  • Page 99 NavVis VLX vVis VLX F F oV: F oV: Fr r ont and back camer ont and back cameras as User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 100 NavVis VLX vVis VLX F F oV: Side camer oV: Side cameras as User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 101 There are two ways to move through areas with low clearance. Use the method that is most comfortable for you. 1. Bend your knees until you can fit underneath the obstruction without hitting the NavVis VLX, 2. Tilt the device in front of you. Hold the frame securely and remove the hooks from your shoulders.
  • Page 102 ▪ Check the area above your head is free before lifting the NavVis VLX back up. Collision Warnings While scanning the NavVis VLX honks loudly if an object is too close to a laser scanner. When you hear a collision warning stop moving and determine what caused it.
  • Page 103 Fall hazard. Injury. Watch your step and use the handrail. Wearing the NavVis VLX decreases your ability to see the stairs in front of you. To ensure your safety you should always hold the handrail. If you trigger the cameras while holding the handrail, your hand and arm could be visible in the resulting panoramic image.
  • Page 104 Information about taking photos with the NavVis VLX. The photos taken by the four cameras on the NavVis VLX are combined during processing into 360° panoramic images. These are used to color the point cloud and provide a realistic walk- through experience in the digital twin.
  • Page 105 In auto trigger mode the cameras are triggered after traveling a specified distance. Stop moving when the NavVis VLX beeps, and the cameras will be triggered. Use auto trigger mode in open environments to ensure enough photos are taken. When using...
  • Page 106 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Hot Swapping the Batteries Hot Swapping the Batteries Follow these instructions to swap the batteries while the NavVis VLX is powered on. Hot swapping allows near-continuous scanning. Context Context A A ttention ttention ▪ Loss of power ▪...
  • Page 107 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Example: Example: Insert one charged battery. Slide the battery into the mount. You will hear a click when the battery is fully inserted. The charge level will display in the UI. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 108 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Example: Example: Repeat with the other side. Remove the battery with low charge and replace it with a charged battery. Recharge the low batteries. It will take two hours to recharge an empty battery to 80%, and two and a half hours to...

  • Page 109: Loop Closures

    ▪ Loop closures are calculated during data processing. You will see the benefits of loop closures in your processed data, but not on the UI of your NavVis VLX. ▪ If possible, perform loop closures between indoors and outdoors.
  • Page 110 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Loop closur Loop closures in corridors es in corridors User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 111 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Loop closur Loop closure o e ov v er multiple floors er multiple floors User Guide User Guide...

  • Page 112: Scanning Large Spaces

    Walk in rows with about 3m distance in between them. Close the loops for better data quality. 360° Field of View The NavVis VLX can "hold on" to structures behind it because it has a 360° degree field of view. User Guide...
  • Page 113 The NavVis VLX has a mark on the belt hook that must be aligned with the control point on the floor or wall. If the device is equipped to use the feature, an anchor button will appear in the Mapping Dashboard.
  • Page 114 They will improve the accuracy of point clouds. Why Does Drift Error Occur? NavVis Mapping technology is based on SLAM algorithms that use the information from the sensors to incrementally build a 3D model of a building. This is a powerful and flexible approach, but like many mapping technologies, it works by chaining measurement after measurement.
  • Page 115 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Place control points in the building and measure them with a total station. The origin of this coordinate system is not the same as the origin of the dataset - rather, the person measuring the control points chooses one origin for the entire mapping site.
  • Page 116 NavVis VLX vVis VLX The post-processing algorithms undistort the datasets according to the constraints given by the control points. The algorithms also extract alignment information based on the positions of the control points and datasets. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 117 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Contr Control P ol Point P oint Post-Pr ost-Processing Stages ocessing Stages Three post-processing stages minimize the distances (errors) between the estimated and the measured control points. After a rigid transformation of the datasets to their relative location, the second and third stages undistort the datasets.
  • Page 118 NavVis VLX vVis VLX systems. 2. The software rotates and moves the dataset coordinate system until every estimated anchor pose is relatively close to its measured equivalent. The drift error remains. It is distributed across the active control points. User Guide...
  • Page 119 NavVis VLX vVis VLX The Error Log File for the first stage is datasets_proc/<dataset_name>/anchors_alignment.log . The necessary transformation from the dataset coordinate system to the anchor coordinate system is written to origin.json . That is where the nv_anchor-dataset-alignment tool collects the alignment information from.
  • Page 120 NavVis VLX vVis VLX The goal is to fit the estimated anchor poses as closely to their measured equivalents as possible. The remaining errors in the new trajectory estimate are most noticeable at the inactive control points. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 121 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Because the undistortion is done across two steps, the stage 2 error log file can be used to gauge the errors in the final trajectory estimate. When all control points are active, there is no way to tell how big the distortions along the trajectory are in-between control points.
  • Page 122 NavVis VLX vVis VLX After the Optimization stage, the errors in the trajectory estimate are as small as possible. The remaining errors can only be seen at the control points . Those errors are minimal because of the undistortion process.
  • Page 123 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Placing Contr Placing Control P ol Points oints A control point is a specific point on the floor or wall of the site. It has to be marked clearly and assigned a unique identifier. The following are recommendations for control points: ▪...
  • Page 124 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 125 NavVis VLX vVis VLX In general, we recommend uniformly distributing control points in both directions 4 contr 4 control ol points per 1000 m² points per 1000 m² (as default). For low complex halls, it is enough to calculate with 3 control points per 1000 m²...
  • Page 126 3. It includes an explanation of what the sticker is for. 4. It is made of robust material, such as intended for outdoor use. NavVis provides a PDF template for two different types of control point stickers: 1. Stickers without numbers 2.
  • Page 127 1. Select the control point button from the right menu on the user interface. 2. From the Na NavVis VLX siz vVis VLX size e screen, select the size of your belt settings. Tap Next Next. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 128 The ID entered must match the ID on the control point marker.  4. Remove the NavVis VLX from the belt hook while holding the frame and handle. Make sure the area above your head is clear. Avoid fast or jerky movements while moving the device.
  • Page 129 NavVis VLX vVis VLX 7. Edit or delete control points from the dashboard screen. Adding Ground Control Points 1. Hold the NavVis VLX by the frame. Position the belt hook at the center of the marker. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 130 NavVis VLX vVis VLX 2. Press the Control Point button on top of the NavVis VLX to add the location. The user interface indicates the control point is added. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 131 Adding Wall Control Points at Head Height or Above 1. Tilt the NavVis VLX and let it rest on your shoulders. Hold the handle with one hand. Use the other hand to position the belt hook at the center of the marker.
  • Page 132 NavVis VLX vVis VLX 2. Align the mark on the belt hook with the center of the wall control point. 3. Press the trigger button above the handle to add the location. The user interface indicates the control point is added. From the user interface, select Add...
  • Page 133 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Dataset Contr Dataset Control P ol Points Info File oints Info File For each dataset, anchors.txt contains an entry for every time a control point was added to the dataset. Control at which post-processing stage each control point is used by setting the boolean flags in this file.
  • Page 134 NavVis VLX vVis VLX ▪ Four boolean flags that control how the control point will be used during post-processing. The first flag ( use_orientation ) controls whether orientation information from the control points file will be used. This flag is currently not used and should be set to false.
  • Page 135 NOTE:  NavVis will continue to support it for backward compatibility. Control point pose entries can be activated for use by removing the # at the beginning of the control point-coordinate line and changing the coordinates to the surveyed ones (see the description of the file structure).
  • Page 136 NavVis VLX vVis VLX ▪ Fields should be separated by commas ",". ▪ .csv files where fields are separated by semicolons ";" or tab and/or numbers are given using a comma "," as the decimal separator (for example: 1.234 = 1,234) are supported but not suggested.
  • Page 137 NavVis VLX vVis VLX The remaining lines each specify: ▪ A control point's unique identifier. ▪ The control point's cartesian position (x, y, z). ▪ The last entry of each line is meant for specifying the orientation of the control point pose.
  • Page 138 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Contr Control P ol Point Err oint Error Log Files or Log Files For each dataset, the three Error Logs contain information on how closely the trajectory was matched to each control point. They can be used to gauge how accurate the mapping artifacts are, after the undistortion process.
  • Page 139 Data Pr Data Processing ocessing The raw data from the NavVis VLX must be processed to generate a point cloud and panoramic images. Data processing prepares your data for use in NavVis IVION, and other CAD or BIM software. You can process in the cloud using NavVis IVION to generate the point cloud and panoramic images.
  • Page 140 Caring for y Caring for your Na our NavVis VLX vVis VLX Caring for y Caring for your our Na NavVis VLX vVis VLX This section describes how you take care for your NavVis VLX . User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 141 Align the cap with the pins in the NavVis VLX as shown here. Example: Example: Press the cap firmly onto the NavVis VLX 3 and rotate until the logo is in the correct orientation. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 142 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 143 Replacing the Na Replacing the NavVis VLX 2 F vVis VLX 2 Fan Filters an Filters Follow these instructions to replace the fan filter on your NavVis VLX 2. We recommend you replace the fan filters once a year. Context Context...
  • Page 144 Replacing the Na Replacing the NavVis VLX 3 F vVis VLX 3 Fan Filters an Filters Follow these instructions to replace the fan filter on your NavVis VLX 3. We recommend you replace the fan filters once a year. Context Context...
  • Page 145 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Cleaning the Camer Cleaning the Camera Lenses a Lenses Follow these instructions to clean the camera lenses on your NavVis VLX. Context Context A A ttention ttention ▪ Mechanical and chemical hazard. ▪ Excessive cleaning may damage the anti-reflective coating.
  • Page 146 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Deep clean if necessary. If the lens is still dirty, put a few drops of isopropyl alcohol or commercial lens cleaner on the microfiber cloth and polish the lens again. Do not apply cleaning fluid directly onto the surface of the lens.
  • Page 147 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Cleaning the Laser Scanners Cleaning the Laser Scanners Follow these instructions to clean the laser scanners on your NavVis VLX. Context Context A A ttention ttention ▪ Mechanical and chemical hazard. ▪ Damage to the laser scanner and/or internal electrical components.
  • Page 148 Do not apply isopropyl alcohol directly onto the optical surface of the laser scanner. Cleaning the Displa Cleaning the Display y Follow these instructions to clean the display on your NavVis VLX. Pr Procedur ocedure e Polish the display.
  • Page 149 Cleaning the Box x Follow these instructions to clean the NavVis VLX box. Context Context If dirt and dust gets inside the NavVis VLX box it may damage the device. Clean the box regularly to prevent this. Pr Procedur ocedure e Empty the box.
  • Page 150 ▪ Check that storage space is available on the SSD. ▪ Update the NavVis VLX software. ▪ Record a short dataset (around one minute) to make sure the NavVis VLX is working as expected. User Guide...
  • Page 151 ▪ The device is regularly exposed handling of air freight. ▪ The device is regularly exposed to extreme environments (dust, heat, or high humidity). If you are not sure NavVis Support will advice you or your local NavVis reseller on the need for professional maintenance.
  • Page 152 Repairs Repairs Discontinue using your NavVis VLX if it is not working correctly or you suspect a component is damaged. This advice also applies if an accessory such as the belt or a battery is damaged. Submit a service request with your local NavVis reseller or NavVis Support at support.navvis.com, if purchased directly.
  • Page 153 VLX 7. T 7. Tr r anspor ansport t Repacking Repacking Follow these instructions to repack your NavVis VLX back in the box. Pr Procedur ocedure e Place the Place the Na NavVis VLX vVis VLX in the bo in the box x Put the shoulder hooks into the box first.
  • Page 154 Place the belt into the slot at the back of the box. You must insert the lower side of the belt into the box first. If you purchased your NavVis VLX with six batteries, place the two extra batteries in the two compartments under the belt. Make sure all items are secure in the box.
  • Page 155 NavVis VLX vVis VLX T T r r anspor ansportation Bo tation Box x Meaning of the shipping marks on the NavVis VLX transportation box. Shipping Marks The item in the box is fragile Handle with care User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 156 ▪ Significant damage can occur to the device if the backpack is used to travel longer distances, such as in a plane, ship etc. ▪ We cannot accept the NavVis VLX if it is sent for maintenance in the backpack.
  • Page 157 Flying Information about flying with the NavVis VLX as checked baggage. Most airlines classify the NavVis VLX as oversize baggage. You must book this with your airline before flying, and there may be an extra charge. Battery Preparation Before Flying...
  • Page 158 Caution ▪ Short-circuits. ▪ Damage to electronic components. ▪ After flying do not use NavVis VLX until it is at room temperature. Condensation may form inside the device when moving it from a cold to a hot environment. User Guide...
  • Page 159 NavVis VLX vVis VLX 8. Specifications 8. Specifications NavVis VLX 2 Specifications vVis VLX 2 Specifications Laser Scanners Laser Scanners Number of laser scanners 2 x 16 layers Laser Class 1, eye-safe per IEC 60825-1:2007 & 2014 Wavelength 903 nm...
  • Page 160 NavVis VLX vVis VLX System oper System operation ation Batteries 2 x 2 Li-ion V-Mount Micro, hot swappable Operating time 1.5 hours (with 1 set of 2 batteries). Storage 256 GB internal, 1 TB external Sensors Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, IMU Field of view (FOV) of each laser 30º...
  • Page 161 In this case, end your scanning, turn off the device, and let it cool down in a cool environment before you start a new scan. The NavVis VLX guarantees constant data quality over a wide temperature range Operating and Non-operating Operating temperature: 0°C to 35°C, non-...
  • Page 162 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Physical Physical Design Powder coated and anodized aluminum, plastic covers and protection, carbon frame Weight (with two batteries mounted) 8.5 kg Belt weight 0.4 kg Dimensions (cm) (H x W x L) 108.5 x 33 x 45...
  • Page 163 NavVis VLX vVis VLX P P ower Supply ower Supply Number of batteries supplied Number of batteries used to power device Battery type Li-ion, V-Mount Micro, hot-swappable DC output of batteries 14.4 V (nominal) Capacity per battery 6.6 Ah Energy per battery...
  • Page 164 NavVis VLX vVis VLX NavVis VLX 3 Specifications vVis VLX 3 Specifications Laser Scanners Laser Scanners Number of laser scanner 2 x 32 layers Laser Class Class 1 Laser product per IEC 60825-1:2014+A11:2021 Wavelength 905 nm Range Up to 300 m Points per second 1.280.000 per sensor...
  • Page 165 NavVis VLX vVis VLX System oper System operation ation Batteries 2 x 2 Li-ion V-Mount Micro, hot swappable Operating time 1.5 hours (with 1 set of 2 batteries). Storage Portable SSD with 1 TB storage Sensors Wi-Fi, IMU Field of view (FOV) of each laser 40º...
  • Page 166 A warning appears on the user interface if the device needs time to reach operating temperature. In temperatures above 35 °C, scanning time might be limited to prevent the NavVis VLX from overheating. A warning appears on the user interface if the device gets too hot. In this case, end your scanning, turn off the device, and let it cool down in a cool environment before you start a new scan.
  • Page 167 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Physical Physical Design Wearable Weight (with two batteries mounted) 8.5 kg Dimensions (cm) (H x W x L) 99 x 33 x 57 cm (XS) 105 x 33 x 57 cm (M) 111 x 33 x 57 cm (XL)
  • Page 168 NavVis VLX vVis VLX P P ower Supply ower Supply Number of batteries supplied Number of batteries used to power device Battery type Li-ion, V-Mount Micro, hot-swappable DC output of batteries 14.4 V (nominal) Capacity per battery 6.6 Ah Energy per battery...
  • Page 169 Statement of compliance with EU directiv ectives es NavVis GmbH declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directives 2014/53/EU and 2011/65/EU, as applicable. The technical documentation as required by the Conformity Assessment procedure is kept at the...
  • Page 170 Note: While NavVis software is running, the used frequencies of the radio transmitter are limited to the 2.4 GHz bands. If you use the device in any other way, mind the following restriction. Operation of the radio transmitter in these frequency bands is restricted to indoor use only.
  • Page 171 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Statement of compliance with Singapor Statement of compliance with Singapore e legislation legislation Conformity icons Conformity icons User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 172 From the About this VLX About this VLX screen, you can check the following: ▪ Check the software version on the NavVis VLX: The version number indicates the official release, while the software packages it depends on are numbered independently.
  • Page 173 2. Connect to the Internet. 3. Tap Check for update Check for update. 4. If an updated software version is available for the NavVis VLX, the New v New version a ersion av v ailable ailable screen appears listing the new software version and packages available.
  • Page 174 1. From the Help Help screen, click Remote suppor Remote support t . 2. Contact NavVis technical support Monday to Friday from 8AM - 6PM CET using one of the following methods: ▪ Email support@navvis.com ▪ Call +49 89 208 04 04 05...
  • Page 175 To start a remote support session: 1. Make sure you connect an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the NavVis VLX 3. 2. From the Help Help screen, Tap Remote Suppor Remote Support t .
  • Page 176 NavVis VLX vVis VLX User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 177 Log Files dialog, enter a name for the zip file containing the system logs. 3. Save the log files to a folder. Send the relevant log files to NavVis technical support. Types of Log File There are three types of log files: ▪...
  • Page 178 /var/log/NavVis/2015-04-28_NavVis.log . To pack them together into a single archive, run: tar -zcvf NavVis.log.tar.gz /var/log/NavVis This will pack all the log files in /var/log/NavVis into an archive NavVis.log.tar.gz , which can be sent to NavVis technical support. User Guide...
  • Page 179 Settings Tap Settings Settings above the mapping dashboard to access settings. When scanning with the NavVis VLX, this button can also be found in the right menu. Camer Camera Settings a Settings: ▪ Automatic Camera Triggering : If enabled, the cameras will trigger automatically once the mobile mapping system has moved by the minimum distance.
  • Page 180 The software will ask you to stop mapping if a severe error has occurred. NOTE: In the case of errors, read the error message carefully and refer to the  Troubleshooting instructions. Contact NavVis technical support with all available information. User Guide User Guide...
  • Page 181 W W arnings and Err arnings and Errors Licensing errors The following license errors may display when checking for NavVis System Software updates in the command line interface: If one of the following errors appears on the NavVis device, the INST...
  • Page 182 NavVis VLX vVis VLX Code Code Description Description W W ARN_NODE_L ARN_NODE_LO O AD_HIGH AD_HIGH Message Message: Please slow down or pause the mapping for a while. Cause: Cause: A software component has a high computation usage. This can be due to a long mapping time.
  • Page 183 NavVis VLX vVis VLX any data yet. This is most likely a hardware problem. ERR_TF_NO_MSGS_YE ERR_TF_NO_MSGS_YET T Message Message: Sorry, something went wrong. Please finish your current dataset and reboot the device Cause: Cause: A software component did not send any data yet. This is most likely a hardware problem.
  • Page 184 This is most likely a hardware problem. Unexpected Errors If the NavVis VLX has an unexpected hardware or software error, a message appears indicating the problem and advises the user to manually stop and save the dataset within 20 seconds.
  • Page 185 3. Start a new dataset. Battery Notifications If the batteries on the NavVis VLX are missing, low in charge, or empty, a notification will appear with the severity of the battery problem and how to fix it. The severity of the battery notifications...
  • Page 186 After starting the NavVis VLX, if the batteries on the device are in a warning or critical state (the charge is less than 20% or batteries are missing) a message will prompt the user to replace the batteries.
  • Page 187 (less than 30% of charge left). Before continuing, immediately insert a second fully charged battery or the NavVis VLX will initiate a safe shutdown after one minute one minute.
  • Page 188 Before continuing, immediately replace the battery with a fully charged battery. ▪ A yellow Batteries low Batteries low warning notification appears when both batteries on the NavVis VLX are low in charge. Before continuing, immediately replace both batteries with two fully charged batteries.
  • Page 189 Empty ▪ A yellow Batter Battery empty y empty warning notification appears when one of the batteries on the NavVis VLX is empty. Before continuing, immediately replace the battery with a fully charged battery. Batter Battery Status Critical y Status Critical ▪...
  • Page 190 Before continuing, replace both batteries with fully charged batteries and start the NavVis VLX again. SSD not Detected on the NavVis VLX If the SSD is not found, the following error will display: User Guide...
  • Page 191 1. If the slot for the SSD is empty, insert a correctly formatted SSD, refer to Formatting an SSD card. If the SSD is in the NavVis VLX, tap Disk Utility Disk Utility to make sure the format is exFAT or Ext4.
  • Page 192 Impr Impro o v v ed ▪ NavVis VLX now calculates and displays area according to the same metric as NavVis IVION Processing for billing purposes. Fixed ▪ The virtual keyboard no longer hides the currently selected control point input screen.
  • Page 193 The following are printable PDF documents. ▪ NavVis VLX User Guide (PDF version of this online guide). ▪ NavVis VLX Setup Poster (PDF of the Setup poster found in the box). ▪ NavVis VLX Safety and Regulatory Document (PDF of the Safety and Regulatory document found in the box).
  • Page 194 Impr Impro o v v ed ▪ NavVis VLX now calculates and displays area according to the same metric as NavVis IVION Processing for billing purposes. Fixed ▪ The virtual keyboard no longer hides the currently selected control point input screen.

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