Greentech Lead
America: Trimble has introduced the WM-Topo survey system, a portable
topographic data collection solution for water management.
The solution includes a Trimble Nomad handheld computer and
a pole-mounted Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver.
WM-Topo system allows farmers and drainage and leveling
contractors to collect topographic data across a field that can be transferred
to Farm Works Surface software or the FmX integrated display via a USB stick,
or wirelessly via Trimble’s Connected Farm solution. The data can then be used
to create a 3D model of the field.
In addition to this, the WM-Topo system can also be used to
calculate the grade between two given points in a field in order to determine
the existing slope or check the grade accuracy of newly installed pipe. This
information allows users to make better water management decisions.
WM-Topo system features a lightweight body, so it can be
carried into hard-to-reach areas with challenging terrain or ditches which are
typically inaccessible to tractor or truck-mounted survey equipment.
The rugged design makes it ideal for use in muddy fields and
fields with mature crop cover, where vehicle access is prohibitive.
“We understand that water management is top of
mind today. The addition of the WM-Topo system to Trimble’s product mix
continues our goal of providing solutions to better meet our customers’ growing
water management needs,” said Erik Arvesen, vice president of
Trimble’s Agriculture Division. “The portable WM-Topo system is an ideal
tool to survey hard-to-reach areas with challenging terrain, crop cover or in
adverse weather conditions.”
The WM-Topo system can also be used as an alternative, or to
supplement, survey work previously conducted on the FmX display, providing a
more portable option for data collection in terrain that is difficult to
access. The system is expected to be available in the fourth quarter of
2012.