Independent surveying saves time and money. For this reason, Swietelsky Baugesellschaft m.b.H. has been using construction surveying via global navigation satellite systems, or GNSS for short, in its Ebersberg branch for years. Almost every construction manager is now equipped with his own ppm10xx GNSS sensor, which provides data for measuring, staking and billing.
An important criterion for site manager Michael Huber when selecting a GNSS system was the ease of use of the device:
“We are neither surveyors nor CAD specialists, but pure users. We need a device that can quickly, reliably and easily transfer a point from the CAD planning to the construction site.”
The planning department prepares the construction sites and provides all data as DXF or DWG files, which are then uploaded to the ppm10xx GNSS sensor. The Carlson Layout software, which is installed on Android tablets, ensures smooth data exchange, as Jutta Knerr, responsible for data processing, confirms:
“The Carlson Layout software can read all DXF and DWG files in the latest format without prior editing. This makes the creation of new construction sites much easier.”
As soon as the site managers set off for the site, they have all the relevant data with them on their GNSS system. The ppm10xx GNSS is also impressive on the construction site thanks to its ease of use. Points and lines can be staked out using the graphic by tapping the relevant point and pressing “Stake out”. For checking purposes, a background map can be switched on in the field, which can be used to visually display the recorded data.
Highly accurate data even when satellites are blocked by obstructions such as trees or buildings.
The accuracy of the GNSS system is at least as important as its ease of use, and here too the ppm10xx GNSS sensor has impressed: even in difficult environments, such as in densely built-up areas, under trees and bushes or in trenches, it delivers measurement results accurate to the centimetre. As the sensor can process signals from four satellite systems at the same time, a solution is always available, even in blocked areas.
For use on the construction site, the sensor is combined with an antenna rod kit. This consists of a pluggable carbon rod that is 2 meters long and only 2.5 centimeters in diameter, in which the antenna cable and a precise GNSS helix antenna are integrated. The ppm10xx GNSS sensor is securely connected to the antenna rod via the bracket. The entire system weighs just 1.5 kilograms and therefore does not cause any strain during work.
Faster measurements, greater efficiency
Before Swietelsky Baugesellschaft m.b.H. in Ebersberg took the surveying into its own hands, it had commissioned external service providers to survey the most important facilities. This approach was associated with significantly higher costs. At the same time, the time span until the data was finally available was too long. With its own solution, the company is now independent of third parties and can survey quickly and reliably. Particularly in view of the high costs in construction, the time saved brings enormous benefits that Swietelsky Baugesellschaft m.b.H. would no longer want to do without.
Coherent overall package
In his search for a suitable solution, Swietelsky Ebersberg looked at the systems of various providers. He is also familiar with the systems of his service providers. Ultimately, the overall package of the GNSS system from PPM GmbH convinced him:
“Everything was just right here. Both the technology, which really shows an impressive performance, the simple operation of the software and the competence of ppm GmbH. We are offered a service here that suits us very well.”
The introductory phase also went smoothly. Questions that arose during the first few days of use were answered promptly and patiently by PPM GmbH. In the meantime, the systems are so familiar that the training is carried out internally.
Swietelsky Baugesellschaft m.b.H. in Ebersberg currently has a dedicated system for almost every construction manager. If further GNSS systems are required, the construction company would rely on the ppm10xx GNSS sensor again.
About Swietelsky
Swietelsky is a leading construction company in Central and Eastern Europe. With the strength of around 11,600 employees, the group generates more than three billion euros in construction output. A decentralized structure guarantees independent organizational units and rapid decisions. Economic sustainability and solid prosperity characterize the company, so that today the entire range of construction services can be offered with the highest quality, flexibility and adherence to deadlines. The Ebersberg branch is very active in civil engineering and road construction.