RTK data can significantly improve the reliability of outdoor scan results, but the final fusion quality depends not only on the device and signal conditions. It also depends on how the operator walks during collection.

This workflow guide explains three practical RTK collection habits that help reduce post-processing failures and improve the stability of RTK fusion results when using SHARE3DCAM scanning workflows.

SHARE3DCAM RTK Collection Tips for improving RTK fusion quality before and during field data collection

Why RTK Collection Path Matters

During field scanning, the system uses sensor data, trajectory information, and RTK-related observations to support positioning and post-processing fusion. If the walking path is too simple, too straight, or repeatedly overlaps with previous trajectories, the data may provide less useful variation for the fusion process.

In practice, a better collection path helps the system understand spatial movement more clearly. This is especially important at the beginning of a scan, in long outdoor routes, or when the system prompts the operator to adjust the walking path.

The core idea is simple:

• Start with enough route variation.
• Avoid repeating the same path too closely.
• When prompted, adjust the route instead of continuing in the same pattern.

Step 1: Start Collection with an S-Pattern Walk for the First 30 m

At the start of collection, the system may prompt the operator to walk in an S pattern for the first 30 m. This initial movement helps improve RTK fusion quality by creating a more useful route shape during the early stage of the scan.

At the beginning of collection, follow the S-pattern prompt for the first 30 m, then continue with the normal scanning route

When this prompt appears, tap Confirm and begin collection. Only the first 30 m need to follow the S-pattern route. After that, the operator can continue scanning according to the normal site route.

Recommended operation:

1. Start collection and wait for the RTK collection prompt.
2. Walk in an S pattern for the first 30 m.
3. After the initial 30 m, continue the normal scanning route.

This step is short, but it is important. It gives the system a stronger starting trajectory for later RTK fusion and helps reduce the chance of post-processing instability.

Step 2: During Collection, Shift Laterally When the RTK Indicator Appears

If an RTK indicator appears during collection, it usually means the current walking path is within the post-processing RTK fusion range. At this point, the operator should intentionally move away from the current path rather than continuing directly forward on the same line.

When the RTK indicator appears, move at least 2 m to the left or right to create enough path variation for RTK fusion

The recommended action is to shift laterally by at least 2 m to the left or right of the current path. If the site allows, forming several wandering routes with at least 2 m spacing can further improve path diversity.

Recommended operation:

1. Watch for the RTK indicator during collection.
2. When it appears, move at least 2 m to the left or right.
3. Avoid walking too close to the previous trajectory.
4. Continue scanning with a varied route where site conditions allow.

This is especially useful in open outdoor spaces, roads, courtyards, parks, construction sites, and other areas where operators may naturally walk in long straight lines.

Step 3: If a Warning Dialog Appears, Adjust the Route or Rescan

If a Warning dialog appears, the current path may be too similar to existing paths. Continuing in the same pattern can increase the risk of RTK fusion failure during post-processing.

When a warning appears, the preferred action is to find the optimal route again and rescan, rather than continuing along a repeated path

In this situation, the preferred option is to follow the optimal route again and rescan. Continuing collection is possible, but it may increase the chance of RTK fusion issues later.

Recommended operation:

1. Read the warning prompt carefully.
2. Do not continue in the same walking pattern.
3. If possible, choose the optimal route again and rescan.
4. If collection must continue, understand that RTK fusion may fail in post-processing.

The warning is not just a notification. It is a signal that the route geometry may not provide enough variation for reliable RTK fusion.

Quick Field Checklist

Before and during RTK collection, keep the following checklist in mind:

• Walk in an S pattern for the first 30 m after starting collection.
• After the first 30 m, continue with the normal scanning route.
• When the RTK indicator appears, shift left or right by more than 2 m.
• Try to create several varied paths instead of repeating the same route.
• If a warning dialog appears, rerouting or rescanning is preferred.
• Abandoned collection paths can still help improve post-processing success rate and final model quality.

Practical Scenarios Where These Tips Help

These RTK collection habits are useful for outdoor and semi-outdoor scanning tasks where route planning affects data quality, including:

• Topographic and terrain scanning
• Roadside and infrastructure documentation
• Parks, courtyards, and open-space mapping
• Construction site scanning
• Outdoor building and façade capture
• Large-area site documentation

For these projects, scanning efficiency matters, but route quality matters just as much. A few seconds of path adjustment during collection can save much more time during data processing and review.

Final Takeaway

Better RTK fusion starts in the field. For SHARE3DCAM users, the most important habits are easy to remember:

Walk in an S pattern for the first 30 m. When the RTK indicator appears, shift left or right by more than 2 m. If a warning appears, adjust the route or rescan instead of repeating the same path.

Full SHARE3DCAM RTK Collection Tips infographic for field operators