GPS World

Tag: 3D modeling

  • Aurora Navigation introduces mobile visual RTK system

    Aurora Navigation introduces mobile visual RTK system

    The small, light RTK receiver integrates the Anypos App and LoRa radio for high-precision surveying, photo surveys and 3D modeling.

    Image: Aurora Navigation
    Image: Aurora Navigation

    Aurora Navigation has launched the Astra1 Mobile Visual RTK, a professional-grade GNSS receiver engineered to redefine high-precision mobile data acquisition.

    The Astra1 is an ultra-compact (60g) solution designed to deliver reliable, centimeter-level positioning and advanced 3D mapping capabilities through seamless integration with a smartphone and the proprietary Anypos App.

    The Astra1 Mobile Visual RTK is built to meet the demand for highly portable, yet exceptionally reliable, high-precision tools that simplify complex field operations.

    Full Field Functionality. Users can perform standard surveying tasks, stakeout and RAW data capture directly from their mobile device.

    Photo Survey. The system enables high-accuracy measurement of inaccessible or remote points, providing typical accuracy under 4 cm and significantly enhancing operator safety and efficiency.

    Georeferenced 3D Scanning. Astra1 allows users to capture photos with precise RTK coordinates, enabling the creation of accurate 3D models for detailed construction verification and digital twinning applications.

    Key Functional Features and Reliability:

    • Unmatched 60 grams and matchbox size
    • 1408 channels, multiple frequencies
    • 900MHz LoRa radio, compatible with Aurora Nav G1000 geodetic receiver
    • Accuracy: RTK 8mm+1PPM Horizontally, 15mm+1PPM Vertically, Photo survey <4 cm (2-15 m distance)
    • AI-enhanced reliability
    • IP67-rated
    • Mobile Visual Survey Workflow via the Anypos App, transforming a standard smartphone into a comprehensive high-precision data collector.
    Image: Aurora Navigation
    Image: Aurora Navigation

    Industry applications and vision

    Astra1 is a suitable and useful tool for professionals across multiple sectors:

    Surveying & Engineering. Streamlines field stakeout and topographic data collection with minimal equipment.

    UAV & Robotics. Serves as a lightweight PNT solution for GCP collection or base station for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and robotic platforms.

    BIM/Digital Twin. Provides the foundational high-accuracy data required for complex 3D modeling projects.

    “We designed Astra1 to address the fundamental need for portability, safety, speed, reliability and simplicity in professional geospatial data collection,” said Zhitao Lyu, founder and CEO, Aurora Navigation. “By focusing on superior performance in tough environments and integrating our Anypos App for a seamless visual workflow, we are delivering a tool that significantly boosts efficiency and safety, and provides survey-grade confidence to every user.”

    Headquartered in Calgary, Canada, Aurora Navigation is focused on developing and delivering innovative GNSS solutions. The company is committed to advancing the efficiency and reliability of geospatial data collection through its unique blend of compact hardware design and advanced positioning algorithms.

  • Golden Software enhances surface mapping package

    Golden Software enhances surface mapping package

    Image: Golden Software
    Image: Golden Software

    Golden Software’s Surfer package, designed for 3D surface mapping, now provides robust subsurface visualization and modeling functionality by incorporating many true 3D gridding and visualization tools.

    With the enhanced functionality, users can now model an additional variable, a C variable, such as a contaminant or chemical concentration, along with the traditional X, Y, Z values. Surfer also includes the ability to create a 2D map of a slice-through 3D grid, which users can move up and down through the grid, illustrating how the C value changes with depth.

    Part of Surfer’s enhancements is isosurface creation, enabling visualization of the 3D grid in the 3D view as an isosurface, providing another way to see how C data varies with depth or elevation. The new 3D-rendered volume functionality also allows users to visualize the 3D grid in the 3D view as a solid body by assigning colors to different C values, highlighting variations in the data.

    Golden Software has released a beta version of Surfer simultaneously with the new version to give users a trial of the new features while they are still in development.

    The company states that the software is suitable for geologists, geophysicists, hydrologists and environmental engineers.

  • Realism in chamber-based CRPA testing

    Realism in chamber-based CRPA testing

    Spirent Federal Systems, a PNT simulation company, offers its government customers and contractors a unique solution for anechoic-chamber-based CRPA testing: a patented “zoned chamber” approach using multi-output, multi-constellation GNSS signal simulators to emulate the movement of satellites in orbit.

    To address the limits of a standard anechoic chamber, Spirent has created independent zones configured to represent the real-world sky view, using genuine constellations and improved satellite azimuth and elevation arrival angles. Test scenarios can be multi-constellation and multi-frequency with customizable time, date and duration — now lasting hours instead of minutes.

    Because scenarios are valid for longer time periods without sacrificing realism, the zoned chamber is effective for validating all aspects of the CRPA system including beamforming, null steering and space-frequency adaptive processing/space-time adaptive processing (SFAP/STAP). CRPA systems with inertial sensors can be tested with static and dynamic scenarios using a positioner within the chamber.

    Additionally, to account for multipath and signal obscuration, Spirent has integrated a 3D environment modeling tool which generates all the variables of a multipath-rich environment in real time, including ground reflection. Interference sources such as jammers and spoofers can be added anywhere in the chamber and concurrently simulated with the GNSS signals. Authorized users can also test classified RF signals such as MNSA M-code and Y-code.

    “Spirent Federal’s goal is to get new technologies to U.S. warfighters at a speed that outpaces near-peer threats,” said Jeff Martin, vice president of Sales. “The realism of our patented zoned chamber allows advanced CRPA systems to be deployed faster with confidence they will perform in GPS-contested environments.”

    Illustration of a simulated test environment incorporating GNSS, multipath and jamming in a Spirent zoned chamber. (Image: Spirent Federal)
    Illustration of a simulated test environment incorporating GNSS, multipath and jamming in a Spirent zoned chamber. (Image: Spirent Federal)

  • Hexagon expands AR capabilities with Immersal acquisition

    Hexagon expands AR capabilities with Immersal acquisition

    Hexagon AB has acquired Immersal Oy, an innovator of spatial mapping and visual positioning solutions for producing augmented reality (AR) applications.

    AR applications enhance real-world experiences by augmenting a user’s visual perception with the display of digital content in the physical world.

    AR’s ability to weave context-specific, 3D information into physical spaces provides endless opportunities to save time, improve performance and reduce costs across a wide range of industries and applications — from surveying, construction, public safety and manufacturing to maintenance, training and navigation applications.

    An immersive experience can help boost task efficiency, improve safety protocols, optimize workflows and increase collaboration.

    The Immersal SDK (software development kit) allows developers to merge and “anchor” digital content to real-world objects – with precise accuracy to their actual location in the physical space — by enabling a user’s mobile device to locate and orient itself in the surrounding physical world using machine-readable maps.

    The maps, which are used for visual positioning, are constructed from image data supported by various mapping devices (including mobile phones) and hosted in the Immersal Cloud Service.

    “Hexagon has long been a leader in delivering smart digital realities that combine inputs from reality capture sensors with advanced visualisation software and tools to enable remote, location-based intelligence. This acquisition puts the power of these insights into the hands of those on-site, enhancing their field of view with superimposed digital information, meaning they can literally do more with what they see,” said Hexagon President and CEO Ola Rollén. “For example, direct access to information about an asset — while working with that asset — including step-by-step instructions on how to repair it, can streamline maintenance tasks while reducing material waste and re-work.”

    Immersal has years of experience developing AI and machine learning-based spatial anchor technology, which “anchors” virtual objects or models for viewing on different devices in the same position and orientation. This unlocks a wide variety of location-based solutions and services — from consumer-oriented augmented reality applications in gaming and media and entertainment to digital twin solutions on an enterprise scale.

    Immersal’s technology can map large spaces — both indoors and outdoors — and works both offline on-device and online using the Cloud Service.

    Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, Immersal will operate as part of Hexagon’s Geosystems division. The acquisition has no significant impact on Hexagon’s earnings.

    Image: Hexagon
    Image: Hexagon

  • ESA seeks ideas to augment satnav with imaging sensors, 3D maps

    ESA seeks ideas to augment satnav with imaging sensors, 3D maps

    NAVISP includes projects for autonomous and connected driving. (Image: ESA/F. Bagiana)
    NAVISP includes projects for autonomous and connected driving. (Image: ESA/F. Bagiana)

    The European Space Agency (ESA) is issuing a call for ideas to overcome GNSS service gaps in urban canyons by using imaging and 3D mapping technology. A workshop to discuss the call for ideas will be held virtually on July 6.

    According to ESA, the growing availability of high-quality image sensors and high-fidelity 3D maps — such as those within smartphone mapping apps — offer a promising way to shrink the performance gap caused by urban canyons and multipath for future mobility applications in terms of ubiquity, reliability and resilience.

    NAVISP — ESA’s Navigation Innovation and Support Programme — specifically is seeking prospects for technology demonstrations of mobility tech to support applications such as  road, maritime transport and drones. The tech would provide assisted satnav by harnessing image sensors and 3D urban models. The proof-of-concept demonstration projects or national testbeds would facilitate introduction of this technology into commercial products.

    Use cases include private or public autonomous transportation in cities, including cars, trams, scooters, bikes, urban ferries, harbors, narrow waterway navigation and future passenger drones.

    Reflected satellite navigation signals (multipath) can degrade positioning performance, especially in urban canyons with numerous artificial surfaces. (Image: EUSPA)
    Reflected satellite navigation signals (multipath) can degrade positioning performance, especially in urban canyons with numerous artificial surfaces. (Image: EUSPA)

    The NAVISP project, called a “thematic window,” is titled “Assisted GNSS with Imaging Sensors and 3-D models for Mobility Applications.” The thematic window opened on June 10 and will close on Oct. 31. During its duration, ESA is offering dedicated support to companies interested in participating in the projects and submitting outline proposals.

    On July 6, the agency is hosting an online workshop with stakeholders to raise awareness about the initiative and clarify any issues interested companies may have. ESA will present the requirements of the Thematic Window and the application process. The workshop will include presentations from high-level experts covering market perspectives, techniques involved in the use of 3D models and imaging sensors, the state of the art of these technologies and latest advances in visual navigation and artificial intelligence applied to mobility applications.

    To register for the July 6 workshop, click here. The workshop agenda is available here.

  • Topcon’s MAGNET7 construction and survey software out now

    Topcon’s MAGNET7 construction and survey software out now

    Survey and construction software suite MAGNET7 is now available from Topcon, using cloud-based connectivity to streamline workflows through GNSS receivers and other equipment.

    Photo: Topcon
    Photo: Topcon

    Survey and construction software suite MAGNET 7 is now available from Topcon Positioning Group.

    MAGNET7 uses cloud-based connectivity to streamline workflows through GNSS receivers, total stations and other positioning tools and instruments. It addresses common needs to increase productivity, efficiency and profitability levels across the job site.

    The software is also designed to improve accuracy while efficiently managing data and collaboration — in real time — with the project team.

    Enhancements in the MAGNET7 field version improve 3D model support, reporting and interactivity in working directly on a visual map. Also improved is data handling for large and complex 3D projects.

    Productivity features include an ability to connect to the newest version of the Sitelink3D job-site monitoring and management system. This enables office personnel to send machine models via the web portal directly to machines on site.

    The new connection also allows access to the Haul Truck app, which dramatically improves efficiency in the mass-haul environment by sending real-time data — including haul volumes and truck locations — directly to the master schedule.

    MAGNET7 provides new capability for calculating the International Roughness Index (IRI), a valuable indicator for resurfacing projects. The IRI data exports directly to ProVAL formats, commonly used in the paving industry, to report and validate road-surface smoothness against government guidelines.

    Also provided are enhanced terrain-modeling capabilities for surveyors and an overall increase in file-type capability.

    Addressing COVID-19

    COVID-19-related demands placed on construction and survey professionals underscore the need for comprehensive, integrated software solutions to meet those challenges head on, according to Alok Srivastava, senior director, product management.

    “The push to ramp up production levels and increase efficiency, while operating profitably, has never been greater,” Srivastava said. “Our suite — made up of field software, cloud services, tightly integrated office software and third-party integrations — is a key component of our digital ecosystem, all designed to enhance productivity in the field while helping the office efficiently manage the project dataset. It does so by tapping the power of integrated solutions to provide end-to-end workflows, superior data exchange and a far better level of collaboration.

    “We’ve long recognized that many of the basic needs and challenges of today’s survey and construction disciplines are similar. With that in mind, this solution provides compatible, comprehensive, connected answers to many of those shared issues.”

    “The need for digital connectivity, both on site and between the office and the job site, has never been greater,” Srivastava said. “With the continued push toward digitization in all facets of their jobs, today’s construction and survey professionals regularly risk loss of efficiency — and the financial costs associated with it — due to issues of incompatibility between equipment and systems. This upgrade of the MAGNET suite of productivity solutions takes connected field and office management to a new level, making the long sought-after ‘end-to-end workflow’ a reality while helping projects stay on schedule and under budget.”

  • Golden Software releases updated 3D surface mapping package

    Image: Golden Software
    Image: Golden Software

    Golden Software has improved visualization and other functionality in the new version of its Surfer gridding, contouring and 3D surface mapping package. Surfer users now have a greater number of options for displaying their scientific data in the new version, the company said.

    Surfer enables users to model data sets, apply an array of advanced analytics tools and graphically communicate the results in ways anyone can understand, Golden Software added.

    “In the new Surfer release, we worked on making it easier for users to gain insights into their data sets by providing additional visualization tools,” said Kari Dickenson, Surfer product manager. “New display options also enable users to more easily communicate the information extracted from their data.”

    The updated Surfer

    In its latest version of Surfer, Golden Software has added the peaks and depressions layer type. This layer type automatically identifies and outlines closed high and low areas, or peaks and depressions, in a grid file. In addition, a statistics report is generated for the areas, including information such as length, width, depth, volume and orientation. The feature also allows high and low areas to be colorized, annotated and displayed on their own.

    The company also added four new capabilities to 3D Views: color scale bars can be added to explain the elevation, concentration or other data values depicted by colors; VRML file format exporting enables users to export their 3D Surfer model into another 3D software package or to a 3D printer; anti-aliasing makes axes and grid lines inside the 3D model appear smoother and more professional; and improved 3D PDF exporting has reduced the PDF file size and made the file exporting process faster.

    In addition, Golden Software added several existing capabilities to the automation function so that users can write scripts to automate certain workflows. Automated features now include base from data layer type, vector base map symbology, new scale bar options, new legend options and new grid data options. Finally, the new Surfer version allows users to identify objects in vector base maps, such as polygons, polylines or points, by automatically renaming them based on any attribute, as well as select multiple polygons and choose to calculate their statistics, areas or volumes either as a single combined polygon or as individual polygons.

    Surfer Beta

    Golden Software released a Beta version of Surfer simultaneously with the new version to give customers a chance to try out new features while they are still in development. The three features the company plans to release for the spring/summer 2021 release of Surfer include 3D base maps, contour volume/area calculation and more automated features.

    The 3D base maps feature allows .DXF, .SHP and other file formats to be imported with their 3D geometry (3D polylines, polygons and polymeshes) and displayed as three-dimensional features in the 3D View.

    A new shortcut also will enable users to calculate volumes and areas above, below or between contour lines with just a few clicks of the mouse, the company said. Finally, additional functions that have been added to automation include point sample, grid project, new classed post layer options and label options for the degrees-minutes-seconds label format.

    Golden Software, headquartered in Golden, Colorado, develops 2D and 3D scientific modeling packages.

  • Bluesky launches MetroVista 3D city models online

    San Francisco. (Image: Bluesky)
    San Francisco. (Image: Bluesky)

    Highly accurate, UK city-wide 3D models are now available to view and download from Bluesky’s online Mapshop.

    The geographically accurate, photo-realistic MetroVista mesh models are available in a variety of formats ready for use in 3D GIS, CAD and other modelling software as well as visualisation, gaming and Virtual Reality workflows.

    Captured using Leica’s large-format imagery and lidar hybrid airborne sensor and generated in Skyline’s PhotoMesh software, the Bluesky MetroVista datasets of major UK cities are available online offering a compelling alternative to traditional photogrammetrically produced models.

    Now in America. In December, Bluesky launched its 3D data capture programme in the United States. The MetroVista product suite allows high-resolution imagery, both vertical and oblique, to be captured simultaneously with high-accuracy, wide-scale 3D data using an advanced Leica camera, the  CityMapper. Specifically designed for 3D city modeling and urban mapping, the system includes a traditional vertical camera as well as survey-grade oblique cameras.

    The CityMapper also includes high-performance lidar technology to accurately collect elevation data — even in shadows that are common in urban environments and can make photo-based collection difficult.

    “Since launching in the UK the MetroVista product range has received enormous offline interest from sectors such as infrastructure and building development, risk assessment, telecommunications and environmental mapping,” said Rachel Tidmarsh, managing director of Bluesky. “By making the data easy to access and consume via our online Mapshop, we hope to increase the take up from traditional users of 3D models and encourage applications such as smart city management, autonomous vehicle testing, virtual reality experiences and gaming.”

    Two seasons in the UK

    Bluesky has been capturing MetroVista data in the UK for two flying seasons. Visitors to Bluesky’s Mapshop will initially be able to select an area and download MetroVista mesh models of London, Birmingham and Cambridge with other UK and U.S. cities coming online in the future.

    Data can be supplied in a variety of proprietary and open source formats including OBJ, FBX, I3s and 3DML for use in Skyline’s TerraExplorer product suite.

    The Bluesky Mapshop also offers complete nationwide coverage of aerial photography from multiple epochs, 3D models, lidar data, thermal mapping and Bluesky’s National Tree Map. Blueskymapshop.com is easy to use and purchasing of data is simple, straightforward and secure. Account options are also available and data can be purchased with a range of easy to understand licence options, including the option of a Sub Contractor Licence.

  • Skyfish unveils UAV computing, navigation and sensor platform

    Skyfish unveils UAV computing, navigation and sensor platform

    The Skyfish platform is controlled by the tiny SkyNode computer, which integrates with optical, thermal, navigational and lidar devices along with sensors, algorithms and robotics. (Photo: Skyfish)
    The Skyfish platform is controlled by the tiny SkyNode computer, which integrates with optical, thermal, navigational and lidar devices along with sensors, algorithms and robotics. (Photo: Skyfish)

    UAV technology developer Skyfish has introduced a computing platform for commercial drones that fully automates crucial infrastructure inspection and measurement tasks.

    The Skyfish platform was unveiled and is being demonstrated at Booth #133 at the Commercial UAV Expo Americas conference being held Oct. 1-3 in Las Vegas.

    Skyfish supports DJI and PixHawk flight controllers and other popular drone architectures, as well as 3D modeling software from companies such as Bentley Systems Inc.

    Skyfish provides a smarter platform so anyone can fly, inspect and model complex infrastructure with an easy-to-use interface, the company said. The platform also pre-processes the collected infrastructure data and metadata to help create impeccable 3D models.

    Available now to selected early-adopter customers, the Skyfish platform comprises:

    • SkyNode. Application-specific, onboard microcomputer controls the Skyfish system (and any Pixhawk 2.1 or DJI A3-based airframe.)
    • SkyControl. Flight planning software that facilitates the creation and execution of complex flight plans in a few clicks.
    • SkyFish Smart Gimbal. Delivers precision angle measurement with encoded motors to capture deep, highly accurate metadata for 2D mapping and 3D modeling.
    • SkyFish M6 or a DJI Commercial Drone. An expandable and collapsible commercial-grade UAV.

    “The Skyfish platform represents a sea change in commercial drone technology for infrastructure inspection, measurement and analysis,” said Mike Barkasi, project manager at Bentley Systems. “For our infrastructure customers that want to enable the benefits of drone sourced data — but need engineering grade accuracy for their 3D modeling — I believe leveraging both the Skyfish and Bentley platforms together is a good answer.”

    “As a leader in the unmanned aerial system (UAS) industry since 2013, Vision Aerial’s been waiting for a well-designed, autonomous solution that provides both precision navigation and built-in sensor integration,” said Shane Beams, CEO at Vision Aerial. “Skyfish delivers exactly that.”

  • GPS World survey: Capturing the world with maps

    GPS World survey: Capturing the world with maps

    New sensing and software tech spurs growth

    While UAVs are an exciting new technology for mapping, most respondents to our survey recognize the continued value of hands-on, in-the-field data collection.

    Most respondents think UAVs could be used for as much as half of data collection, but very few expect UAVs to be used for more than that. UAVs are just one mobile collection method, of course. Others include autos such as SUVs, boats and all-terrain vehicles.

    What role will UAVs play in the mapping industry over the next three years? (Source: GPS World 2018 State of the Industry survey)
    What role will UAVs play in the mapping industry over the next three years? (Source: GPS World 2018 State of the GNSS Industry survey)

    We also asked respondents how they use UAVs for data collection. RGB high-resolution still-image cameras and lidar are the most frequently used, with video cameras not far behind. Other specialty cameras collect infrared or thermal imagery, while specialty sensors collect everything from temperature to pressure and methane levels.

    Whether mounted on a UAV, a vehicle, or on the ground, these technologies are used in fields as diverse as forest management, disaster response and infrastructure planning.

    For instance, urban planners rely on mapping data for land value, topography and water and electricity resources. Meanwhile, forestry experts use infrared to detect areas of disease or die-off in the early stages.

    Software in the Cloud. Turning to software, developments in cloud storage and open-source and subscription platforms are constantly improving geographic information systems (GIS). A wealth of GIS and GPS data is available from Google Maps, Apple Maps, OpenStreetMap and other applications. Specialty applications include Esri ArcGIS, Maptitude, Surfer and more. In the coming years, expect an increase in 3D modeling, digital elevation models (DEMs) and augmented reality.

    What is the most valuable sensor to use in conjunction with GPS/GNSS aboard a UAV for mapping and data-collection purposes? What role will UAVs play in the mapping industry over the next three years? (Source: GPS World 2018 State of the Industry survey)
    What is the most valuable sensor to use in conjunction with GPS/GNSS aboard a UAV for mapping and data-collection purposes? What role will UAVs play in the mapping industry over the next three years? (Source: GPS World 2018 State of the GNSS Industry survey)

    The automotive sector has been adopting digital mapping applications for use in self-driving cars, as well as fleet management, logistics control systems, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

    Every year, more satellites are launched for mapping and GIS data collection, and they don’t all provide photo imagery. For instance, NASA’s Aqua satellite detected and mapped huge concentrations of carbon monoxide drifting east across the U.S. from western wildfires — important information for public health planning.

    For more results from the 2018 State of the GNSS Industry, see this page.

  • Imaging tech from Australia’s Spookfish heads to North America

    Australian geospatial startup Spookfish has won a major Asia Pacific industry award for exporting imaging technology to the North American market.

    Spookfish has partnered with U.S.-based EagleView Technology Corporation, a North America provider of aerial imagery, and the two companies have collaborated to develop new technologies to meet the demands of the North American market.

    In mid-2017, EagleView placed its first large order for multiple Spookfish platforms following an extensive flight-test program. Spookfish is now building the platform in significant volumes to meet EagleView’s demands.

    Meanwhile, rollout of the Spookfish imaging technology for Australian customers is underway. Perth-based Spookfish offers high-resolution imagery of Perth, Melbourne and Adelaide online, with Sydney and Brisbane in the works.

    Spookfish’s technology enables rapid imaging of vast areas in high resolution from a multitude of angles at a fraction of the cost of contemporary systems, the company claims. Spookfish aims to use these capabilities to make it easy for organizations of all sizes to gain access to premium imagery content and pervasive 3D models allowing concise, accurate and cost effective decision-making.

    The Asia Pacific Spatial Excellence Awards (APSEA) showcase excellence within the spatial industry. Presented at Locate & GeoSmart Asia Conference in Adelaide, Australia, the APSEA award recognizes Spookfish’s success in innovating, commercializing and exporting its imagery capture and processing technology. Spookfish took home the APSEA Export Award after competition from companies around the Asia Pacific region.

    “This is an exciting achievement for Spookfish and the beginning of a substantial export opportunity for Australia,” said Spookfish CEO Jason Waller. “The award is a testament to the entire Spookfish team and their ability to research, innovate and successfully bring new technology into operation.

    “Spookfish has begun delivering multiple systems to our strategic partner, EagleView Technologies, with the export program generating significant revenue from capture systems and expected future royalty payments.

    “More importantly, the partnership with EagleView delivers extensive benefits to our Australian customers because as our world-leading technology continues to develop, it immediately becomes available in the domestic market.”

  • Intergeo preview: Photogrammetry heads for new markets

    We’ve entered a new golden age for photogrammetry, powered by the ease of digitizing images and their ubiquitous availability.

    Photogrammetry is the science of making measurements from photographs. While science drives the process, business is driving a wealth of associated applications.

    “Photogrammetry is ahead of its time because everything is already fully digital in this discipline,” said Heinz-Jürgen Przybilla, professor of Geodesy at Bochum University of Applied Sciences.

    UAVs, digital cameras and image sensors on the Internet of Things, in aircraft or on satellites are opening up applications that only the world of science was predicting a few years ago.

    Intergeo Show. The developments that photogrammetry is setting in motion will be on display at Intergeo 2017, Sept. 26–28 in Berlin.

    The art of using photographs for surveying, which laid the foundation for present-day photogrammetry, dates back 150 years and involves developing processes to derive information from images that go far beyond simply viewing them. In recent years, the discipline has made huge progress, with businesses discovering new application areas.

    The high level of automation makes it possible to interpret huge volumes of data from sources such as large-scale satellite imagery. The process also works in real time — a prerequisite in applications such as autonomous navigation.

    “Automation in image evaluation makes people incredibly flexible. We’re no longer restricted to viewing the world from our own height,” said Christian Heipke, president of the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS).

    Photogrammetry applications are moving into numerous sectors and tackling a host of challenges. Global change is being documented using images from space. Image data is being used to forecast crop sizes. Inaccessible structures are being monitored with the help of images from UAVs.

    As Przybilla said, image evaluations from UAVs are already being used for high-precision land register surveys. What took days manually can now be accomplished in minutes.

    Disaster Prevention. Other applications include disaster prevention and monitoring refugee movements. In many cases, drones provide a rapid overview, while satellites offer the large-scale basis for evaluating a situation.

    In architecture, 3D models from aerial images complement computer-aided design (CAD) plans.  In conjunction with virtual reality, 3D models enable design variants for a building to be depicted in the actual environment.

    Information is also being shared with disciplines such as computer vision and robotics, with “seeing robots” increasingly recording and mapping their surroundings.

    Industrial site in 3D: A digital elevation model from a series of overlapping photos taken from a UAV at 300 feet above ground level.
    Industrial site in 3D: A digital elevation model from a series of overlapping photos taken from a UAV at 300 feet above ground level. (Image: Eric Gakstatter)

    More and more, the processes and algorithms on which image evaluations are based are becoming like a “black box” for users — hard to understand from the outside. While the black box is getting bigger, scientists are refining their methods.

    “We’re increasingly combining existing data and this will leverage a huge amount of new potential,” explained Heipke. The black box for photogrammetry will be discussed at Intergeo.

    Once the process of image content recognition is automated, applications are limitless.

    Several sessions organized by the German Society for Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Geoinformation (DGPF) at Intergeo will be looking at topical issues in photogrammetry. The contents of the presentations range from new sensors and remote sensing to “engineering geodesy meets photogrammetry.” Numerous companies will also be showcasing their image-evaluation solutions at Intergeo’s specialist exhibition.