Using Distance Distance Offset Method with LaserSoft® Connect™

We designed the LaserSoft Connect app as a free solution that bridges TruPulse rangefinders and laser offset workflows with Esri’s ArcGIS Field Maps solution, for use with any GNSS receiver. The Distance Distance method is one of three laser offset methods available to users. While each comes with its own unique workflow and gear requirements, the goal is the same.

Some assets are located in hard-to-reach or dangerous locations. Whether these assets are on roadways, dangerous or steep terrain, or private property, you’re better off keeping your distance. Instead of physically occupying the positions of assets like these, and grabbing coordinates with your GNSS receiver, use laser offset workflows to stick to safe and convenient locations only.

Understanding the Workflow

This laser offset workflow requires you to choose and occupy two separate Control Points. You’ll want a clear line of sight between Control Point 1 (CP1) and Control Point 2 (CP2). Try to create an equilateral triangle between CP1, Cp2, and the asset you will be positioning onto your map file.

To perform the Distance Distance workflow, you only need Bluetooth-compatible TruPulse laser rangefinder and a GNSS receiver. You achieve offset positioning capabilities by recording two shots to the asset. This is where the two Control Points come into play. After recording your first shot, from CP1, and your second shot, from CP2, the final step is to tell the Connect App which direction you moved when heading from CP1 to CP2. This method is especially useful when your only Laser Tech gear is a Bluetooth-enabled TruPulse rangefinder. You do not need a compass or encoder to perform the Distance Distance workflow.

Performing the Workflow

Make sure the LaserSoft Connect app is installed on your Android device. Open up ArcGIS Field Maps and head into your profile settings. Once there, tap the Offset option and select Laser Tech Connect. Next, tap on Provider and select Integrated. This video demonstrates these first steps in action with a screen recording that you can follow along with:

Here is how to perform the Distance Distance offset method with the LaserSoft Connect App and ArcGIS Field Maps:

1. Choose a CP1 location and occupy its position.
2. Start a point in ArcGIS Field Maps, tap the three dots icon for more options, and select Offset From Location. This launches LaserSoft Connect.
3. Connect your TruPulse laser rangefinder to the app via Bluetooth and establish a GPS connection.
4. Tap the Distance Distance option.
5. Measure and enter your Antenna height and Laser Height.
6. Use your GNSS receiver to record CP1’s position.
7. Use your TruPulse rangefinder to record a shot to the asset.
8. Move to Cp2 and record its position.
9. Use your TruPulse rangefinder to record a second shot to the asset
10. Tap Next, then use the arrow icons to tell the Connect app which direction you moved when heading from CP1 to CP2.

This video demonstrates each step in action, along with a screen recording that you can follow along with:

In that video, we use the TruPulse 200i laser rangefinder and a Trimble receiver. You are not limited to these devices. Any Bluetooth-enabled TruPulse rangefinder will work. You can also use any GNSS receiver. The LaserSoft Connect app is available in the Google Play store for free. Contact our team if you have any questions.