Precision and speed are the currencies of the modern construction site. For surveyors and construction professionals across South Africa, the pressure to deliver accurate data rapidly is higher than ever. Traditional surveying methods, while reliable, often require significant manpower and time.
Enter the robotic total station. This technology has fundamentally shifted how site work is conducted, moving the industry away from two-person crews toward efficient one-man operations.
Among the leading options available today is the Kolida Robotic Total Station, specifically the KTS-591 model. It is quickly becoming a favourite in the South African market for its blend of advanced technology and rugged reliability.
If you are looking to upgrade your equipment fleet, here is what you need to know about this robotic total station.
Kolida Robotic Total Station in South Africa – Everything You Need To Know
What is the Kolida Robotic Total Station?
The Kolida KTS-591 is an all-in-one professional robotic total station designed for layout, survey, and monitoring tasks.
Unlike manual stations that require an operator at the instrument to sight the prism, the KTS-591 utilises motorisation technology to automatically search for, lock onto, and track the prism.
This capability enables “one-man surveying.” The surveyor can control the instrument remotely from the prism pole using a data logger or controller. This autonomy significantly boosts productivity, allowing a single professional to complete tasks that traditionally required a team.
Features of the Kolida Robotic Total Station
The KTS-591 is packed with hardware and software designed to streamline the surveying workflow.
Key technical features include:
- Advanced Prism Search and Tracking: The unit can actively search for a prism within a 300-metre radius and lock onto it. If the line of sight is interrupted, it uses smart algorithms to quickly re-acquire the target.
- Long-Range Recognition: For longer-distance work, the station features Automatic Prism Recognition (APR), capable of identifying a prism up to 1200 metres away.
- High Accuracy: It offers professional-grade precision with 0.5″ to 1″ angle accuracy options, ensuring reliable data for critical projects.
- Android Operating System: Running on Android 11, the onboard system is intuitive and familiar to smartphone users. It features a large 5.5-inch touch screen (720 x 1280 px) for clear data visualisation.
- Connectivity: The device supports 4G, Wi-Fi, and long-range Bluetooth (up to 300m), enabling seamless data transfer to the office.
- K-Survey Software: The onboard software provides graphical guidance, map-driven workflows, and high-performance CAD capabilities, allowing users to draw and edit CAD files directly on the device.
The Benefits of the Kolida Robotic Total Station
Why are South African surveyors making the switch to Kolida? The benefits extend beyond just technical specifications:
- Reduced Labour Costs: The primary advantage is the ability to perform one-man surveys. You no longer need a dedicated assistant standing at the instrument, freeing up staff for other tasks.
- Increased Efficiency: With features such as “300m Search and Track,” the instrument continuously tracks the prism. When you move to a new point, there is no need to manually re-aim the station, which drastically reduces downtime between shots.
- Versatility: The KTS-591 supports a “Prism Plus Position Mode.” This allows you to mount a GNSS RTK receiver on top of your prism. If the total station loses line of sight (blocked by a vehicle or wall), the RTK position helps the station locate the prism immediately once it is back in view.
- Automated Monitoring: The system is ideal for monitoring structural displacement. Its high angular and distance accuracy allows it to detect minor shifts, and its wireless communication enables remote management of the data.
Where Can You Find Kolida Robotic Total Station For Sale in SA?
Investing in a robotic total station is a significant decision, and having local support is crucial. For genuine products and technical expertise, you should source your equipment from an authorised distributor.
Afgen is a leading supplier of surveying and construction equipment in South Africa and stocks the Kolida range. We offer full support to ensure you get the most out of your KTS-591.
If you are ready to improve your surveying capabilities with automated tracking and one-man operation, you can view the full specifications and request a quote directly from our website.
