Mount and configure a Pix4D supported RTK device - Topcon

To effectively use a Pix4D-adapted RTK receiver with a mobile device, it is essential to configure the system correctly. One of the key steps is defining the camera offset—the spatial distance between the antenna and the mobile device's camera. This offset, whether automatically detected (via Pix4Dcatch and SPC+) or manually measured, is critical for ensuring centimeter-level accuracy in geolocation for scans and ground control points (GCPs).

Mount the Pix4D-adapted Topcon HIPER CR RTK rover to the device

Devices with a Known Camera Offset

This list contains the combinations of mobile devices (phones and tablets) with the Pix4D-adapted RTK devices where the camera offsets are already measured. PIX4Dcatch will automatically fill in the X, Y, Z fields with the correct camera offset values.

RTK Profile creation and connection to the RTK device

To configure the RTK profile and establish a connection with the RTK antenna, please proceed to the RTK Device Settings section located within the menu and select RTK Device Settings

Following this step, you will need to create a new profile by assigning it a name and selecting the Topcon HIPER CR model. You will also have the option to specify the offset as either Left, Right, or Custom.

Next, you will need to provide the NTRIP information for the profile. This involves entering several key details: the NTRIP caster URL, which connects your device to the correction source; the port number that enables communication; and your username and password, if required by your service provider. Additionally, make sure to select the appropriate input Coordinate Reference System (CRS) and Mountpoint for your setup.

Once you have completed the configuration and entered all necessary details, your RTK profile will be generated and saved within the PIX4Dcatch application. This means that the next time you connect your Pix4D-adapted Topcon HIPER CR RTK device, you won't need to re-enter the connection details or the NTRIP information. The application will automatically retrieve the saved profile, allowing for a quick and seamless setup process. This functionality not only saves you time but also minimizes the risk of errors that can occur when manually entering information each time. As a result, you can focus more on capturing accurate data and less on the configuration process, enhancing your overall workflow efficiency.

How to Manually Measure the Camera Offset

If you don't have the handle of the antenna with the SPC+ case, you will need to measure the offset of the antenna manually. This process involves determining the precise distances between the antenna and the mobile device's camera lens to ensure accurate geolocation of images captured. Manual measurement is essential when automatic calculations are unavailable, as accurate offsets are critical for achieving centimeter-level accuracy in your data collection. Make sure to have a measuring tool, such as a ruler or measuring tape, readily available. Carefully follow the steps outlined in the subsequent sections for measuring the X, Y, and Z axes to obtain the necessary values for setting the camera offset. This approach will help you achieve the best results when using your Pix4D-adapted RTK device.

Measure the X and Y axis

To determine the X-axis offset, start by positioning your antenna vertically. First, identify the center point of the antenna, which serves as your reference point. From this center point, measure straight down to the intersection of the Y-axis, ensuring that your measurement is taken along the vertical axis. This distance will represent how far the antenna is positioned relative to the Y-axis.

Next, to measure the distance from the camera lens to the center of the antenna, use a ruler or measuring tape. Begin at the center of the camera lens and extend the measurement directly to the center point of the antenna. It's essential to ensure that this measurement is taken horizontally to avoid any discrepancies. This distance will provide you with the X-axis offset value, which is crucial for accurately aligning your camera's position with the antenna's location. By carefully recording this measurement, you will ensure that the data captured is precise and reliable for your scanning or geolocation needs.

Measure the Z axis

Measure the depth from the center of the handle to the center of the lens for the Z axis offset. To do this accurately, first, identify the exact center point of the handle, which serves as your reference for the measurement. Using a ruler or a measuring tape, extend the measurement from this midpoint straight down to the center of the camera lens. It is important to ensure that the measurement is taken perpendicularly to maintain accuracy. 

Enter the camera offset values

With the camera offsets properly measured and recorded, they can be included in the appropriate Camera Offset Values field of the RTK Device Settings Profile dialog. Depending on the device's geographical region, centimeters or inches will be the displayed measurement unit.

The camera offset is now properly set in the Camera Offset Values X, Y, Z fields. Continue with the RTK Device Settings dialog to complete the Pix4D-adapted Topcon HIPER CR RTK connection to the device.