Leica BLK 360 G2
Leica BLK360 G2: Update and Features
Progress never stands still in the world of 3D laser scanning, and Leica Geosystems' latest innovation, the BLK360 G2, sets new standards in precision and efficiency. In this article, we delve deep into the device's technical specifications, highlight its pros and cons, and evaluate its value for money—with a particular focus on measurement accuracy, scanning speed, range and visibility, ease of use, and software integration.
Technical specifications and performance
The Leica BLK360 G2 is a masterpiece of miniaturization. It packs advanced technologies into its compact 155 x 80 mm size, yet remains extremely portable at just 850 g including batteries. The scanner's slim stature not only facilitates transport but also makes it ideal for use in confined spaces.
Leica is keeping quiet about the measurement accuracy, but the device's range of 45 meters is known, which makes it suitable for a variety of projects, but not for all.
The BLK360 G2's scanning speed is a key feature that sets it apart from the competition. With four different scan settings—from under a minute to as little as three minutes—and a scan rate of 680,000 points per second, this device far surpasses its predecessor.
Its 3D point accuracy of 6 mm at a distance of 10 meters (on concrete and rough surfaces; reflective surfaces vary greatly) ensures acceptable data acquisition at medium distances. This level of precision is a good entry point into the laser scanning market.
Vorteile und Anwendungsbereiche
A key advantage of the BLK360 G2 is the Visual Inertial System (VIS) technology, which not only simplifies workflows by quickly pre-registering scans directly in the field, but also saves valuable time in the post-processing process.
The imagery functions also play an important role: users can choose between a Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) image capture in 8 seconds or a High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture in 20 seconds, which ensures optimal color representation even under difficult lighting conditions.
User-friendliness and software integration
The BLK360 G2 is ideal for those who want to capture smaller areas and a rich surface for a laser module. The BLK Live app facilitates instant data viewing and control of the scanner on compatible mobile devices. Coupled with seamless integration with the Cyclone FIELD 360 app and the entire Cyclone Suite, Leica Geosystems offers users a complete solution, from data acquisition to final data processing with Cyclone REGISTER 360 PLUS.
Significantly better image resolution than the BLK 360 G1
With its outstanding 104-megapixel color resolution, the BLK360 G2 sets new standards in the entry-level segment, enabling detailed, high-resolution image capture of its operating environment. This feature is particularly important for applications where good color and detail reproduction are critical.
In terms of 3D acquisition precision, the scanner delivers measurable accuracy, with a 3D accuracy of 4-6 mm at a distance of 10 meters and 8-10 mm at a distance of 20 meters. While Leica did not specify the angular accuracy, such values provide a robust indicator of the scanner's performance at medium distances.
Price-performance ratio
With a hefty price tag of approximately €23,000, the BLK360 G2 is certainly an investment. However, this price must be viewed in light of the time saved, the precision, and the convenience the device offers. For professional environments that scan regularly and at a high level, the BLK360 G2 could result in significant long-term savings, making it a worthwhile investment.
Efficiency in practice and coordination with software
The BLK360 G2's wide range of scan speed settings allows for precise adjustment to project-specific requirements. Visual Inertial System (VIS) technology also allows for pre-registration of scans directly in the field, which can result in significant time savings. The ease of use continues with software integration. The BLK Live app and Cyclone FIELD 360 app provide intuitive access to scanner control and immediate data quality control. Full compatibility with the Cyclone Suite perfectly rounds out workflow management.
Technology deployment and software integration
With a range of scan speeds, from under one minute to a detailed three minutes, the BLK360 G2 allows users to adapt to the requirements of their specific projects. Visual Inertial System (VIS) technology accelerates workflow through pre-registration in the field, providing a clear added value in terms of efficiency.
Seamless data integration is enabled by the companion apps, BLK Live and Cyclone FIELD 360, as well as the Cyclone Suite, making the process fluid from data collection to post-processing.
Limits of technology
Although the BLK360 G2 impresses with its performance specifications, it's also worth noting its relatively limited scanning range of 45 meters. This is a disadvantage, especially compared to other scanners designed for longer distances, and can lead to limitations in large or sprawling projects. We also noticed that the scanning times are inaccurate. They are approximately 30% longer than stated. No-go!
Due to its short battery life and memory limitations, it stops after just a few scans.
It should also be noted that despite the outstanding color resolution, pure 3D point cloud generation can be affected by range limitations in terms of its level of detail, which can be considered disadvantageous, especially in applications that require high accuracy over long distances.
Der Scanner kommt zu einem Preis von 20.536,32 EUR, was zwar ein erheblicher Betrag ist, aber angesichts der eingesparten Zeit und erhöhten Effizienz im Feld für Anwender eine lohnende Investition darstellen kann.
Die begrenzte Scanreichweite des Geräts, die bei 45 Metern liegt, kann in bestimmten Einsatzgebieten, wie beispielsweise bei großflächigen Topographiemessungen, zu einer Beschränkung führen. Dennoch muss herausgestellt werden, dass diese Einschränkung durch die hohe Bildgenauigkeit, sowie durch die präzise 3D-Punktgenauigkeit für viele standardisierte Anwendungen weniger ins Gewicht fällt.
Obwohl der Anschaffungspreis von 20.536,32 EUR für diese Leistung etwas erhöht ist, stellt der BLK360 G2 für viele Anwender in Anbetracht der erzielbaren Arbeitsabläufe und Ergebnisqualität eine sinnvolle Investition dar. Zusammengefasst reflektiert der BLK360 G2 eine imposante Balance zwischen kompakter Bauweise und ausgeklügelter Scantechnologie. Seine ordentlichen Ergebnisse bei niedrigen Entfernungen und seine Achtsamkeit im Detail machen ihn zu einem geschätzten Instrument in einem beeindruckend weiten Einsatzspektrum. Dem stehen Limitationen in der Scanreichweite und der passgenauen Anwendung für weiterreichende Projekte entgegen.
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