When you are tasked with capturing the "as-built" reality of a centuries-old industrial site, you can't rely on guesswork. You need speed, precision, and a kit that understands the quirks of an ancient, complex structure.
We recently took the CHCNAV RS7 handheld SLAM scanner out to an old woollen mill to put it through its paces. This site was a maze of narrow stairwells, low ceilings, exposed beams, and lingering machinery—the ultimate test of indoor mobile mapping.
While the RS7 is a powerhouse straight out of the box, at PQS Tech, we pride ourselves on pushing our equipment to its absolute limit. Sometimes, getting the data to really shine requires a few of our own unique tweaks and accessories.
Check out the video above to see our custom-configured RS7 setup in action within the mill.
Why the RS7 is the King of Interiors
Before we get into the custom kit, it's worth highlighting why the RS7 was our weapon of choice for this project. The specs speak for themselves:
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Massive Data Density: Capturing up to 1.15 million points per second, it doesn't just scan; it documents every fissure in the stone and grain in the timber.
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Zero Blind Spots: With an ultra-wide 360° × 189° field of view, we could capture floors, ceilings, and walls in a single pass. In tight mill corridors, this is a game-changer that eliminates rework.
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The Power of SLAM: The RS7 uses Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (SLAM). This means it doesn't need GNSS/GPS to know where it is. It maps its own surroundings in real-time as you walk, making it perfect for multi-level buildings where satellite signal is non-existent.
In short, the RS7 reduces the "dance" usually required to capture complex indoor volumes, speeding up on-site time dramatically.
The Final Percent: Unlocking Peak Performance
The finished point cloud needs to be flawless to be useful for architectural restoration or BIM documentation. While the base scanner is excellent, a woollen mill presents unique challenges. Low light can hinder the visual colourisation of the scan, and long, repetitive floor plates can sometimes challenge SLAM algorithms.
That’s where we stepped in. After extensive testing, we have found the ultimate setup for the RS7, pairing it with a few of our own unique, custom accessories.
In the video, you can see how we handle transition points (like narrow, winding stairs) and how we utilise our custom peripherals to maintain maximum stability and data clarity even in the lowest light conditions of the mill basement.
We don’t just use the kit; we optimise it. We believe the best data isn't just about the sensor—it's about the configuration.
The Deliverable
By leveraging the native power of the CHCNAV RS7 and dialling it in with our custom accessories, we were able to deliver a stunning, colourised digital twin of the woollen mill. This complete dataset allows the client to navigate every room virtually, taking precise measurements of structural elements that haven't been touched in decades.
Have a challenging indoor project that needs precise "as-built" data? Contact us at enquiries@pqstech.com today to discuss how our optimised reality capture workflows can save you time and improve your project outcomes.
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