Checklist for small-scale spatial data collection with mobile phones

The following checklist outlines the requirements for collecting mapping data using the mobile Mega Toolbox. You can refer to this list during pre-collection, collection, and post-collection stages as a quick reference guide. This ensures effective, high-quality mapping data acquisition, thereby enhancing localization stability.

Tip

You may print this checklist before each collection for reference.

Pre-collection checklist (mandatory before collection)

☐ Prepare an ARKit-supported iPhone or ARCore-supported Android phone
☐ Install the latest version of Mega Toolbox App
☐ Ensure phone battery exceeds 50% to prevent mid-collection shutdown
☐ Ensure storage has over 5 GB free space to prevent data saving failures
☐ Ensure ambient lighting is suitable; avoid strong backlight, direct sunlight, or overly dark environments
☐ Ensure the phone lens is clean; avoid fingerprints, grease, or dust affecting camera imaging

During collection (reference for on-site operation)

☐ Throughout collection, the top-left status must remain Tracking. Maintain steady movement; avoid rapid turns or sudden stops
☐ Collection duration must not exceed 15 minutes. Exceeding this limit forces collection to end and enters the saving page
☐ Do not switch apps during collection, as this may cause collection failure
☐ Avoid prolonged pointing at plain surfaces (e.g., white walls, metal), reflective surfaces, or transparent glass areas
☐ Strictly follow the collection procedure. Scan the environment comprehensively from multiple angles, including circling, tilting up/down, and near-far combinations to provide richer perspective information
☐ Ensure the recorded video covers the entire target object
☐ Avoid obstructing the lens with hands or other objects during collection
☐ Restart collection if it fails

Post-collection checklist (mandatory before upload)

☐ Collected data files use the .emp extension. Verify filename suffixes during export
☐ After transferring files to a computer, use PotPlayer or VLC Media Player to check the recorded video for blurriness, lag, or playback issues. Re-collect if problems exist