Solutions for measuring, layout, scheduling

Nov. 7, 2014
Learn about: Bosch GLM 100 C Laser Measure with Bluetooth wireless technology. LoopCAD 2014 by Avenir Software Inc. The LoopCAD MJ8 Edition offers full support for MJ8 residential cooling loads.

The integration of a mobile app with a laser distance measurer increases functionality in interesting ways. For example, the Bosch GLM 100 C Laser Measure with Bluetooth wireless technology, www.boschtools.com, enables users to make accurate measurements of linear lengths up to 330 feet and angle measurements in two axis that are instantly transferrable to smart phones or tablets via the free Bosch Measurement mobile app (downloaded at Apple App store and Google Play) that syncs smart phone or tablet, for steady measurements along long range or short range targetless measurements, or in hard-to-reach locations.

In addition, Bosch offers free GLM Transfer software that supports transfer of measurement data via USB to the user’s Windows PC, with the measured values given a date and time stamp. 

Featuring ten measurement modes and memory storage of up to 50 measurements, the GLM 100 C is accurate up to 1/16th inch. The modes are: length, area, volume, angle, min/max, continuous, single indirect height, single indirect length, combined indirect height and multi-surface. The unit, which runs on a rechargeable integrated Li-ion battery, sports a large, automatically illuminated flip display with tilt screen technology for easy measuring, reading and interpreting in all directions. 

Utilizing the mobile app, GLM 100 C users can sketch or overlay measurements onto jobsite photos. The device operator takes a photo at the jobsite using the unit’s measurement camera app, enters the desired distance to be measured into the photo, and performs the measurement.

The distance is displayed directly in the picture. Repeat as needed. Measured values can be named and saved in a project folder with the date, time and type of measurement. The user can add distances by putting them in a line and calculate areas and volume by dragging measured values onto one another.

The GLM 100 C weighs 0.3 lbs., is 4.375” long and 1.18” thick, and comes with a Li-Ion battery charger, a USB cable for data transfer, a hand strap, a belt pouch and a quick-start guide.

LoopCAD 2014 by Avenir Software Inc., www.loopcad.com, is standalone software that enables the creation of professional quality circuit layout drawings for radiant heating systems. The program can draw and import floorplans (PDF, AutoCAD, JPG), supports automated and freehand circuit (loop) drawing, performs integrated heating and cooling load calculations, detailed hydronic calculations, and snowmelt design and provides 3D views.

LoopCAD, which is compatible with OEM design methods and materials, is available in three editions: Standard, Professional, and MJ8, with the Pro edition adding automated ASHRAE and CSA residential heat loss calculations during the drawing process and the MJ8 edition including ACCA-Approved Manual J (8th edition) residential heating and cooling load calculations.

The LoopCAD MJ8 Edition offers full support for MJ8 residential cooling loads including block, room and peak loads, infiltration and ventilation loads, detailed exposure diversity analysis, October cooling load calculations and room CFM estimates. The custom Review Step enables critical review of key data and settings in each project and supports quick changes and re-evaluation of results. The MJ8 Edition also features “warning flags” that are raised whenever design parameters stray outside normal values recommended by Manual J. Reports available in Manual J8 Edition include Form J1, Load Summary, Load Report, and AED Report.  

According to the software developer, LoopCAD is utilized by many radiant system manufacturers in North America. The custom OEM add-ons integrate the products, systems and settings from those manufacturers, providing software users with exacting calculations, detailed materials lists, and quotations, at no additional cost. A comprehensive video tutorial is available at the LoopCAD website, as is a fully functional free 30-day trial of the software.  

If you aren’t yet running software for scheduling, tracking and billing field service appointments, here’s a free (ad-supported) web-based solution optimized for desktop or laptop you might want to give a try: AceRoute Field Service Software www.aceroute.com. Downloadable for free (a free Google account is required) this web-based solution offers a lot of basic features for scheduling, optimizing, dispatching and tracking service calls.

Scheduling and dispatch features include a drag and drop dispatch board; route, worker, list, daily, weekly and monthly calendar views; automatic visual status tracking, resource availability check and view, and the ability to find, map and schedule for proximity or preferred worker

Work order management capabilities include recurring and one-time orders, ability to assign single or multiple workers, proximity-based job assignment and ability to track parts used. The software maintains customer data and service history and customer notes, and supports address geocoding and validation. Users can customize customer type, order type, task type and material/part types. Reports include customer billing showing parts and labor and hours worked.

Some manufacturers of laser distance meters (laser distance finders) have introduced mobile apps that transfers recorded measurements to mobile computing devices with Bluetooth interface, including smartphones and tablets.

Bill and Patti Feldman write articles and web content for trade magazines and manufacturers of building products. They can be reached at [email protected]

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Contractor, create an account today!