FAQ - Crane Camera

Where do I attach the Crane Camera system to the crane?

The camera is fixed to the tower crane jib, at the end or along the jib. It will not prevent the trolley movements and the trolley will not obstruct the camera lens.

The exact number of cameras and their positions along the jib are calculated on a case-by-case basis by Pix4D in the Coverage Analysis process.

How do I attach the system to the crane?

The system is fixed on the crane using a bracket supplied by Pix4D.

Depending on the crane model and manufacturer, this bracket might need to be modified. The customer is responsible for the mounting: Pix4D is not accredited to conduct operations on the crane and thus cannot accept any liability.

Should the system point straight down or be angled?

The Crane Camera should point straight down to ensure optimal 2D mapping results.

Does the system need to be fixed on a tower crane jib that is permanently horizontal?

Yes, at present the system is designed to have the camera pointing down during data capture and can only be installed on T-type tower cranes. Future developments will allow the solution to be compatible with luffing jibs.

How is the system powered?

The cameras work within the range of 100 to 240 VAC. They need to be connected to the crane power supply, typically accessible through a switch panel in the cabin. A two-meter long cable will be attached to the Crane Camera solution. The cable is a three-wire cable (L, N, GND).

What are the power requirements of the system?

AC input voltage:

• ~50 W max with heater active (case temperature < 5 °C).
• ~15 W max without the heater.

What is the input voltage of the system?

100-240 VAC via a supplied adapter inside the camera case. This option includes a case heater (case temperature < 5 °C).

How are images transferred to Pix4Dcloud?

Images are automatically uploaded for processing on the Pix4Dcloud server, via a 4G connection or via an ethernet connection. SIM cards and data plans need to be provided by the customer.

What are the ethernet connection requirements?

Users need access to at least one ethernet port with an active internet connection at the top of the crane. This can be done with an active ethernet line or a 4G router with an ethernet port.

What does Pix4D provide regarding the ethernet connection?

Pix4D provides the following:

• Ethernet extension cable for each Crane Camera.
• Weatherproof Ethernet connectors.
• Networking switch.

What are the SIM card requirements?

Users need a Micro SIM with a data plan. A complete data collection consists of approximately 200 pictures and uses about 750 MB of data. This is adjustable based on the user's needs and preferences.

By default, the camera will capture data once per working day. Based on these settings, Pix4D recommends choosing a data plan of minimum 17 GB (preferably unlimited) per SIM card, per month. Users need to make sure the plan is active on all SIM cards before the installation of the camera system.

How should we select a network provider?

Choose a 4G carrier that offers good coverage in the construction site. Test the signal strength on-site before installing the SIM. A low signal can affect the reliability of the Crane Camera solution. Once the network provider is selected, Pix4D can pre-configure the user's system.

Where do I insert the SIM card?

The SIM card needs to be placed connector-side-up on the top of the module labeled “Telit.” Pix4D will install the SIM card.

Are the images automatically processed?

When sufficient images are collected or at the end of the data capture window, the images are transferred to Pix4Dcloud where they will be processed automatically.

How quickly can I get the results?

The system is pre-configured by default to one collection per day from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm, in addition, a second collection can be added. Each camera is configured to capture 108 images per collection. The processing time per collection depends on the number of cameras and the number of photos captured.

For example, a 3-Crane Camera system captures 324 images and the processing time is around 3 to 4 hours.

The processing time is also dependent on the server load at that time.

What is the accuracy of the Crane Camera system?

Accuracy depends on the height of the crane above the structure. As a reference, at 40 meters height, an accuracy of 1-2 cm can be expected.

Can I send the images to a private server?

At the moment, this feature is not available. Please contact us for more information.

What is the weight of the system?

The system and bracket weigh approximately 8kg.

Does the camera withstand all climate conditions?

The Crane Camera system is weatherproof and designed to withstand crane vibrations. The crane movements do not affect the system accuracy or the quality of the images captured.

Is it possible to install multiple systems on the same crane and/or site?

Usually, multiple systems are installed on the same crane to guarantee optimal coverage of the site from the ground floor to the top of the building. The exact number of cameras and their positions along the jib are calculated on a case-by-case basis by Pix4D through the Coverage Analysis process. Images from multiple systems are automatically combined and processed in Pix4Dcloud.

How much does the Crane Camera system cost?

Pricing is based on a monthly subscription to the solution. For a monthly fee, users receive the Crane Camera system (under full warranty) and unlimited data processing/access. It is also possible to purchase the system. Contact us for full pricing information.

Who handles the shipping costs?

Pix4D organizes and covers the costs for shipping. In the case of international delivery, Pix4D will clear the Crane Camera for export, although the customer will be the importer of record at the destination, and will be responsible for any import authorization, customs formalities, and associated costs.

Does the system have a warranty?

The system has a warranty against failure for the entire duration of the subscription period. In case of failure, the system will immediately be replaced.

What are the outputs generated by the Crane Camera?

For each image dataset captured with the Crane Camera, the following outputs are generated: a point cloud, a textured mesh, a DSM, and an orthomosaic.

Is the Crane Camera compatible with other BIM software?

Results are compatible and can be exported to BIM software for further analysis and BIM verification.