Dusty Robotics Enhances File-to-Field Execution with Leica AT500 Integration
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Dusty Robotics, the pioneer in automated construction layout technology, has announced a major upgrade for its FieldPrinter 2 solution by adding support for the Leica Absolute Tracker AT500 — the most portable and advanced laser tracker in Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence portfolio.
This strategic integration marks a significant leap forward in Dusty’s mission to close the gap between digital design and real-world field execution. By combining the AT500’s advanced measurement capabilities with the proven reliability of Dusty’s FieldPrinter 2, contractors can now achieve faster, simpler setup without sacrificing the company’s hallmark industrial-grade 1/16" accuracy. That level of precision remains vital for high-stakes environments like data centers, advanced manufacturing plants, and hospitals, where mistakes can translate to costly rework and delays.
Bringing Digital Models to Life Faster
"The AT500 reduces the friction between digital models and field execution," said Tessa Lau, CEO and cofounder of Dusty Robotics. "We've seen teams significantly reduce setup and repositioning time with this integration. This means less time managing equipment and more time focused on the actual construction work that delivers value to projects."
With its compact design, robust build, and industry-leading measurement volume of up to 320 meters in diameter, the Leica AT500 is engineered for demanding site conditions. Its IP54 certification provides strong protection against dust and water — perfect for rugged jobsites. A controllerless design streamlines setup, while built-in hot-swappable batteries keep operations running without interruption.
The device’s PowerLock system further enhances productivity by automatically locking on and tracking the robot even if the line of sight is temporarily blocked, minimizing delays in fast-paced jobsite environments.
A Smarter, More Connected Jobsite
One standout feature is the AT500’s innovative lightweight LMF-embedded interface, which connects easily to embedded Linux operating systems. This enables dynamic trajectory correction for the FieldPrinter 2 without requiring an industrial Ethernet real-time feature pack — simplifying deployment and minimizing the need for extra IT infrastructure.
For contractors, this means less hassle getting high-precision tools up and running, and more time keeping crews productive on-site.
Chris Jundt, Product Sales Manager - Trackers, North America at Hexagon, emphasized the practical impact: “The integration of the AT500 with Dusty's FieldPrinter 2 gives construction teams a practical solution for accelerating jobsite setup and improving workflow efficiency. This combination addresses real challenges faced by field professionals who need to quickly translate digital designs into physical execution."
Expanding Capabilities Beyond Layout
The enhanced system doesn’t just stop at layout. With the AT500, Dusty’s platform now improves floor elevation checks, flatness measurements, and detection of deviations — all critical for sectors like healthcare and advanced manufacturing, where perfect floors are non-negotiable.
This move demonstrates Dusty’s broader ambition: to evolve from layout automation into a comprehensive, connected design-to-field collaboration tool. By strengthening ties between design teams and field crews, Dusty Robotics continues to prove that automation isn’t just about machines — it’s about empowering people to work smarter and deliver projects with fewer delays and surprises.
Looking Ahead
Dusty will now offer the AT500 as part of its FieldPrinter 2 deployments, giving customers flexibility to choose the right tracker for their specific jobsite demands. By partnering with Hexagon and adopting one of the most advanced measurement tools on the market, Dusty is doubling down on its promise to make high-accuracy, automated layout easy to use, reliable, and scalable for every contractor.
To learn more about how Dusty Robotics is transforming the way buildings come to life — from file to field — visit dustyrobotics.com.
About Dusty Robotics
Dusty Robotics bridges the gap between design intent and field execution with an AI-powered, automated layout solution that prints digital models directly onto jobsite floors with unmatched precision. Trusted by top contractors like Mortenson, McCarthy, and Skanska, Dusty has printed layouts for over 100 million square feet of construction. Learn more at www.dustyrobotics.com.
Originally reported by Dusty Robotics in Construction Dive.