---
title: Best Practices for Collecting SLAM Data Under an Underpass or Bridge
description: When collecting SLAM data with a ROCK LiDAR unit in challenging locations like underpasses or bridges, it’s essential to follow specific steps for optimal data quality. This guide outlines the recommended approach
---

[Skip to content](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/best-practices-for-collecting-slam-data-under-an-underpass-or-bridge#main-content)

English

Show submenu for translations

![ROCK-robotic-community-logo.png\]](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ROCK-robotic-community-logo.png?width=250&height=50&name=ROCK-robotic-community-logo.png)

- [ROCK Customer Support](https://www.rockrobotic.com/support/)

Open main navigation

Close main navigation

- [ROCK Customer Support](https://www.rockrobotic.com/support/)
- English
  
  Show submenu for translations
- [www.rockrobotic.com](https://www.rockrobotic.com/)

[www.rockrobotic.com](https://www.rockrobotic.com/)

 Hello. How can we help you?

- There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

1. [ROCK Knowledgebase](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/?hsLang=en)
2. [ROCK SLAM](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en)
3. [SLAM Data Collection](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en#slam-data-collection)

October 30, 2024

# Best Practices for Collecting SLAM Data Under an Underpass or Bridge

## When collecting SLAM data with a ROCK LiDAR unit in challenging locations like underpasses or bridges, it’s essential to follow specific steps for optimal data quality. This guide outlines the recommended approach

<iframe allowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen="" webkitallowfullscreen="" src="https://komododecks.com/embed/recordings/8culmDsmTtA3E0AUUbjv?onlyRecording=1" width="100%" height="100%" style="border: 0px; position: absolute; inset: 0px;"></iframe>

### Preparing for SLAM Data Collection

To collect SLAM data efficiently, ensure the following:

- Use a compatible device like the R3 Pro V2 LiDAR.
- Familiarize yourself with the [**one-button method**](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/how-to-use-the-1-button-method-for-slam-on-r3-pro?hsLang=en) for easy operation.
- Have an **open sky environment** as you start and finish the capture for better GNSS data. 

### Step-by-Step SLAM Data Capture

Follow these steps to ensure precise data collection:

1. **Position and Activate**: Start with a **30-second static capture** in an open area before moving towards the underpass. This helps in initializing the GNSS signal for better satellite reception.
2. **Begin Walking**: Keep the device steady and positioned to avoid obstructions from the bridge structure. Aim to hold it slightly above head height for an unobstructed scan.
3. **Slow Walk and Tilt Technique**: 
     - Walk slowly along **one side** of the underpass.
     - Use a subtle **tilt** to cover the top of the underpass, capturing as much detail as possible.
     - **Repeat** this process on the opposite side for comprehensive data coverage.
4. **Ensure Loop Closure**: Return to your starting point to enhance data accuracy through loop closure. Check out additional [**loop closure tips.**](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/how-to-capture-and-process-slam-data-on-the-r3-pro?hsLang=en)

**Pro Tip**: Small tilts during the capture create a "painting" effect, covering areas that might otherwise be missed. However, avoid excessive tilting to prevent IMU issues.

### Finalizing the Capture

After collecting data:

1. Perform a **final static capture** for another 30 seconds.
2. Use the one button method to s**top data collection.**
3. **Turn off** the device.

---

Related Resources for Further Information

- Unlock LiDAR Access and Get Academy Training
- SLAM Data Processing in Rock Desktop
- R3 Pro SLAM Colorization Setup

This approach to SLAM data collection provides structured coverage under difficult conditions, helping you capture complete, accurate data for all underpass or bridge projects.

- [ROCK R3 Pro](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r3-pro?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Setup](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r3-pro?hsLang=en#setup)
    - [Data collection](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r3-pro?hsLang=en#data-collection)
    - [Updates and Maintenance](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r3-pro?hsLang=en#updates-and-maintenance)
    - [Mobile Mount](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r3-pro?hsLang=en#mobile-mount)
    - [Photogrammetry](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r3-pro?hsLang=en#photogrammetry)
- [ROCK Desktop](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-desktop?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Desktop Processing](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-desktop?hsLang=en#desktop-processing)
    - [Using ROCK Desktop](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-desktop?hsLang=en#using-rock-desktop)
    - [Desktop License](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-desktop?hsLang=en#desktop-license)
    - [Desktop Support](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-desktop?hsLang=en#desktop-support)
    - [Releases](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-desktop?hsLang=en#releases)
- [ROCK Cloud](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Overview](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#overview)
    - [Project Data](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#project-data)
    - [Managing Projections](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#managing-projections)
    - [ROCK Cloud Tools](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#rock-cloud-tools)
    - [Processing](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#processing)
    - [Deliverables & Exports](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#deliverables-exports)
    - [General](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-cloud?hsLang=en#general)
- [ROCK SLAM](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [SLAM Hardware](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en#slam-hardware)
    - [SLAM Data Collection](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en#slam-data-collection)
    - [ROCK Colorized SLAM Dock V2](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en#rock-colorized-slam-dock-v2)
    - [SLAM Data Alignment](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-slam?hsLang=en#slam-data-alignment)
- [ROCK Base Station](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-base-station?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [ROCK Base Setup](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-base-station?hsLang=en#rock-base-setup)
    - [ROCK Network](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-base-station?hsLang=en#rock-network)
    - [Base Data](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-base-station?hsLang=en#base-data)
- [ROCK Deliverables](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-deliverables?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Deliverables](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-deliverables?hsLang=en#deliverables)
    - [Ordering](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-deliverables?hsLang=en#ordering)
    - [Processing](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-deliverables?hsLang=en#processing)
- [General Knowledge](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/general-knowledge?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [ROCK](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/general-knowledge?hsLang=en#rock)
    - [Drones](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/general-knowledge?hsLang=en#drones)
    - [GPS / GNSS](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/general-knowledge?hsLang=en#gps-gnss)
    - [LiDAR](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/general-knowledge?hsLang=en#lidar)
    - [Surveying](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/general-knowledge?hsLang=en#surveying)
- [ROCK R2A & R360](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r2a-r360?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Hardware](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r2a-r360?hsLang=en#hardware)
    - [Data Collection](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r2a-r360?hsLang=en#data-collection)
    - [Aerial Data Capture](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r2a-r360?hsLang=en#aerial-data-capture)
    - [Creating Orthomosaics](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-r2a-r360?hsLang=en#creating-orthomosaics)
- [What's New](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/whats-new?hsLang=en)
- [Sales](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/sales?hsLang=en)
- [ROCK Ultra](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-ultra?hsLang=en#main-content)

    - [Setup](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-ultra?hsLang=en#setup)
    - [Data Collection](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-ultra?hsLang=en#data-collection)
    - [Settings](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/rock-ultra?hsLang=en#settings)

[![Chill listening crop-3](https://learn.rockrobotic.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ROCK-robotic-community-logo-1.png?width=120&height=24&name=ROCK-robotic-community-logo-1.png "Chill listening crop-3")](http://rockrobotic.com)

rockrobotic.com Help Center

Copyright © 2026, ROCK Robotic Inc.