Innovative Embedded Software: How next-generation laser measurement solutions are created

Sii has been a leading provider of services for designing and developing software that supports these embedded technological solutions for over a decade. The Embedded Competency Center’s offerings are highly sought after by international organizations, including Leica Geosystems. Read the article to learn about the results of this forward-thinking collaboration, which resulted in the development of Leica DISTO ™ devices. 

Embedded software-based technological solutions are widely used in demanding industries for device control, computational tasks, data monitoring and analysis, communication with external systems, and protection against unauthorized access. Sii provides solutions based on embedded software and supports organizations in bringing innovation to the market. 

Leica Geosystems’ activities 

With more than 200 years of history, Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, is the trusted supplier of premium sensors, software, and services. Their precise and carefully crafted innovative products have gained recognition in various sectors, from classical surveying to heavy and building construction. With the rapid development of digital technologies, the demand for next-generation measurement devices continues to grow. 

To ensure clients’ needs are met, Leica Geosystems continuously delivers value-added features, improves efficiency, and enhances quality. Their recent project involved developing embedded software for the latest generation of handheld laser distance meters. The priority tasks were entrusted to the Sii team, which has supported the company since 2017. 

Stages of developing Leica DISTO™ Laser Distance Meters 

The main objective of the Leica Geosystems project was to develop laser distance meters that push the boundaries of what was previously possible. Its key stages involved creating and delivering software for the Leica DISTO™ X6 and D5 models. The Embedded Competency Center at Sii handled the critical task of implementation.

– To meet Leica Geosystems’ functional and performance requirements with our embedded software, we started by conducting a thorough analysis of needs and preparing the architecture for the proposed solution – explains Kamil Zorychta, Solution Architect at Sii. – We also focused on precise project estimation to maintain the right quality-to-cost ratio for the client – he adds. 

Crucial steps in the project included designing the hardware platform, selecting components, and consulting on their functionalities. Then, Sii developed the embedded software for the provided platform. The team simultaneously focused on creating unit and integration tests and assisting with manual testing. The final project phase included supporting device production through data analysis and additional software implementation. 

Challenges in creating embedded software 

Sii engineers involved in development relied on proven technologies used in the embedded industry. The new devices were built around the STM32H7 microcontroller, which offers several solutions for component communication and high performance. The microcontroller core is computationally powerful enough to implement an advanced graphical user interface. Utilizing the microcontroller and available libraries, Sii developed a method for quickly generating .jpg images without the need for additional costly RAM. 

The team provided essential integrations and enhancements to the core software of Leica Geosystems’ cross-platform device. Sii also used an API to integrate Bluetooth support for interaction with Leica Geosystems’ mobile app. 

– For handheld battery-powered devices, developing an energy management algorithm to ensure maximum efficiency is crucial – says Bartosz Pośpiech, Embedded Software Developer and Hardware Engineer at Sii. – Our team’s biggest challenge was the battery charging management algorithm, which required continuous analysis of its state and quick response to any emerging threats – he explains. 

Three teams with interdependent competencies were collaborating. Sii was responsible for the software for the HMI board, while Leica Geosystems managed hardware. Leica Geosystems provided the laser range finder module as a black box. 

Leica DISTO™ X6 and D5 Laser Distance Meters 

As a result of the collaboration between Leica Geosystems and Sii , a new generation of two flagship devices was implemented, elevating measurement technologies to the next level. The advanced Leica DISTO™ X6 and D5 laser distance meters feature modern firmware integrated with hardware developed by the Leica Geosystems team. These devices meet the highest quality standards, delivering measurement precision and reliability in any weather conditions. 

Future of Leica Geosystems and Sii

Although the project has ended, the partnership between Leica Geosystems and Sii continues. The team responsible for developing and delivering software for the distance meters participates in optimizing the device production process at the factory and provides ongoing support to the client in product development. Leica Geosystems and Sii are open to continuing the successful collaboration in future projects. 

– Understanding and integrating with Leica Geosystems’ technology, combined with our experience and competencies, allows us to improve existing products or introduce new functionalities that can increase interest among potential clients – summarizes Marek Natunewicz, Solution Architect at Sii . 

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