Pix4D & Emlid Scanning Kit

The Pix4D & Emlid Scanning Kit combines photogrammetry and LiDAR data from an iPhone with the RTK precision of Reach RX2 to produce highly accurate 3D reconstructions.

Reach RX2 receives corrections from an RTK network or base and calculates centimeter-accurate coordinates (1 cm ≈ 0.39 in.), which are assigned to each image captured by your iPhone using the PIX4Dcatch mobile application. During image acquisition, the iPhone's LiDAR gathers point clouds. These LiDAR points compensate for the lack of 3D data over reflective or low-texture surfaces and help identify uncovered areas to fill gaps during scanning.

Once the project is complete, the captured data is sent to the PIX4D cloud for automatic processing. There, you can generate precise 3D reconstructions for further analysis or export to third-party software.

The Scanning Kit does not require advanced surveying skills and is designed to quickly capture accurate digital models for documenting trenches and as-builts, performing volumetric measurements, and enriching aerial data with terrestrial scans in areas inaccessible to drones. It is also used in forensic applications for precise collision reconstruction.

The RTK technique allows you to get cm-level (sub-inch) accuracy, but requires a receiver (rover) and a source of corrections (a base), which can be another receiver or a correction service. Both are valid approaches. Two receivers can communicate with each other via radio or internet, giving you full independence, and are great for permanent or semi-permanent setups.

A correction service, also called an NTRIP/VRS service, always requires an internet connection, but allows you to skip the base station logistics entirely and move between job sites freely.

If you want to explore the second option, check Emlid Corrections — a professional VRS NTRIP service, built into Reach receivers, providing cm-level (sub-inch) accuracy out of the box. The first year is included for free.

Pix4D & Emlid Scanning Kit is primarily designed for creating accurate 3D reconstructions outdoors. For indoor mapping, it relies exclusively on photogrammetry, as RTK accuracy cannot be achieved due to the absence of satellite visibility. Instead, it leverages the iPhone's LiDAR data to provide detailed depth information.

To ensure high accuracy indoors, ground control marks are essential. These GCPs must be georeferenced with centimeter (sub-inch) accuracy, which is not possible with RTK technology in indoor environments due to the lack of satellite signals. For this purpose, classic geodetic techniques, such as surveying with a total station, are recommended.

The accuracy of RTK-enabled PIX4Dcatch scans can achieve an absolute geolocation accuracy of less than 5 cm (1 cm ≈ 0.39 in.). This high level of precision is achievable when using Pix4D-adapted RTK devices such as the Reach RX2.