Start Scanning with NavVis MLX

Introduction

Use this guide the first time you run a scan with NavVis MLX, or as a refresher before a job. You'll need the device in its harness, a fully powered battery, and a USB-C Flash Drive in place. By the end, you'll have a complete dataset saved and ready to transfer for further processing.

1. Set Up Your Device

Before starting a scan, take a few minutes to make sure your device is set up correctly and is ready to go. Skipping this step can lead to poor data quality or interrupted sessions in the field.

Power On the Device

Put the device in a stable position and power on the device. Wait 30 seconds for it to complete the IMU initialization. Confirm there are no errors displayed before proceeding.

Put on the Harness with the device

Place the device in the harness so that the laser scanner is above shoulder height and can see past your shoulders.

2. Scanning Process

Start a New Dataset

Tap New Dataset on the display and enter the name of the dataset, and follow the on-screen instructions.

Start walking at a moderate, steady pace. Monitor the quality map on the display, the screen turns blue to indicate successful scanning coverage.

Understanding the Quality Map

The scanning path is displayed as a solid white line on the quality map.

Knowledge base: For detailed information refer to Quality Map.

Achieving full scanning coverage

If you see dark green or light green areas on the quality map, slow down and expose the laser scanner toward these areas. Keep scanning until the area turns a solid bright blue on the quality map.

Monitor Your Speed and SLAM Status

Keep the SLAM status bar green as you scan.

• If the SLAM status bar turns yellow, this indicates the laser scanner cannot detect any features. When this occurs, slow down and expose the laser scanner to geometrically visible features.

• If the SLAM status bar turns red, this indicates SLAM is lost. Stop, turn the device around slowly, and expose the laser scanner to nearby features.

Knowledge base: For detailed information refer to SLAM Status Bar.

Loop Closures

A loop closure occurs when you revisit the same location within a dataset. Loop closures help ensure the dataset's accuracy. Cross your previous path to create a loop closure.

Knowledge base: For detailed information refer to Loop Closures.

Capture Panoramic Images

Why take panoramic images?

• Panoramic images add color to your point cloud — without them, it will be gray after processing.

• Makes rooms, doors, furniture, and other objects easier to recognize, especially for non-experts.

• Improves navigation and the quality of deliverables for client reviews.

Panorama Capture Modes

There are three modes:

• Manual: Stop walking, press the trigger button below the display, wait for the camera trigger sound, then continue.

• Auto: When you hear the sound trigger, stop walking, wait 2 seconds, then continue.

• Continuous: The device captures images automatically as you walk. No button press needed.

Panorama Capture Methods

There are two different methods when capturing a panorama:

• 270° Panorama: Stop walking and short-press the button under the display. A  270° Panoramic view icon will display on the quality map.
  

• 360° Panorama: Remove the device from the harness, lift it so the bottom is level with your chin, long-press the button, then reattach the device and continue walking. A  360° Panoramic view icon will display on the quality map.
  

Knowledge base: For detailed information refer to Capturing Panoramas.

3. Check, Save and Finish

Review the quality map:

• Confirm the map is predominantly solid bright blue with no significant gaps.

• Check that panoramic image icons are distributed evenly throughout the scanned area, no large gaps.

• Open individual panoramas check for motion blur. If found, capture the panorama again while standing still.

If the quality map looks good and no major issues are present:

1. Tap Pause.

2. Tap the Save button.

3. Select Finish.

Your dataset is now saved to the USB-C Flash Drive.

4. Retrieve Your Dataset

To access your datasets

1. Remove the USB-C Flash Drive from the NavVis MLX.

2. Connect the USB-C Flash Drive to your computer.

3. Open the dataset_rec folder, your dataset will be marked with the date of capture.