Mobile geodetic measuring device – Terramon

In the beginning, it was just electronics encased in a heavy metal structure. A solution that worked, but lacked mobility and industrial design. When Geodrom approached us with the TERRAMON project, they gave us something much more valuable than just a brief – trust. Trust that we would design and manufacture a full-featured design solution for their mobile geodetic scanner. One that would not only be technically accurate, but also visually and functionally well thought out. They liked our solution so much that we produced two pieces.

From idea to mapped terrain

TERRAMON is a cutting-edge 3D terrain mapping device that uses advanced sensors located on the roof of the vehicle. Our challenge was to design a structure that is stable, lightweight, aerodynamic and modular at the same time. From design to production, we combined three technologies: CNC milling, composite lamination and 3D printing. The result is a hybrid structure made of aluminium profiles, carbon fibre laminate and ASA plastic cover parts in TERRAMON corporate colours.

Technology and materials interplay – individual parts of the structure

It was a challenge to combine multiple technologies and materials into a single unit. It was the interplay of components, each of which had to fit exactly into place. The placement of all the technologies – from the LiDAR unit, to the 360° camera system, to the precision IMU and GNSS geodetic navigation – was absolutely key. In geodesy, every millimetre counts – and we took it literally.

Supporting structure

The load-bearing part consisted of CNC-milled aluminium parts, joined into a rigid frame. At the bottom there is a massive herringbone joint with angled lines in a trapezoidal profile, which creates a self-locking effect. It is this geometric principle that ensures the exceptional strength and rigidity of the structure without the need for unnecessarily massive fixings. This design element ensures high rigidity and reliable attachment to the vehicle roof – even when deployed for long periods of time in demanding off-road conditions.

Covering and connecting elements

For the visual and functional connection of the individual parts, we used 3D printed components made of ASA plastic – UV-resistant and ready for the outdoors. We adapted their shape to the sensors and service access needs.

Laminated shell

We covered the electronics and control unit with a lightweight but extremely strong carbon cover with a cylindrical shape. The holes for the cable outlets were designed to precisely match the connector layout to minimize the risk of damage while maintaining a clean visual line. The carbon casing was created by hand laminating it into a specially made mould. In the event of servicing, the entire cover can be conveniently slid upwards and, thanks to the integrated self-locking mechanism, easily secured.

Mounting on the roof of the vehicle

The entire system is mounted on an aluminium profile, which is ended with an antenna on one side and a 3D printed TERRAMON sign on the other. At the same time, the lightening of the profiles adds an aesthetic element and supports the aerodynamics of the whole structure.

More than just the design

TERRAMON isn’t just about technology – it’s about what it looks like, how it communicates and how it works in the real world. Our approach combines product design, engineering, and prototyping into a whole that works – and represents. The result is a device that is already driving in the field today, but also represents Geodrom’s modern technology approach.

Your idea can take shape, too. Just entrust it to us.