GPS World

Tag: GIS

  • Customizable iPad Data Form for Wetlands Released

    Wetlands-Test-Pits-W

    CMTINC.COM has released the Wetland – Stakeout application for use on the Apple iPad. Besides providing Feature digitization and GPS Stakeout functions, this app will let the users create a custom data entry and report form. The form could be a simple inventory log, price quote, or job contract, or a sophisticated form for collecting GIS data.

    In particular, a customizable report form is built into the app to facilitate the data collection for wetland delineation. This wetland determination data form contains built-in logic as well as formulas for performing automatic computations. It is based on the “Wetland Determination Data Form — Arid West Region” provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The data collection form can be modified by the users for use in other regions.

    The Wetland – Stakeout app will let the users digitize the test sites in a map job or import the test sites from Shapefiles or DXF files. The users can then use the stakeout function to help them get to the test sites and record the observation data. Now that the iOS devices are able to work with some external sub-meter GPS receivers, a user could also record fairly accurate location data for the test holes that are actually dug on site. After completing the wetland data entry, the users can send the report to a PDF file and email it back to the office.

    The Wetland – Stakeout app is one of a series of GPS-based iOS apps developed by CMTINC.COM. It is now available for download from the iTunes App Store.

    Wetland-Input3

  • Sen. Warner Sends FAA Letter on UAS Regulations

    U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) sent a letter on Dec. 4 to the FAA administrator regarding the agency’s efforts to design effective regulations for unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

    Virginia is part of a multistate consortium that is one of six FAA regional test sites for studying the safe integration of unmanned aerial vehicles into the existing airspace.

    In his letter, Sen. Warner argues against requiring a pilot’s license for the operation of these vehicles, and urges the FAA to make development of a UAS regulatory framework a top priority in the new year.


  • Image Matters to Support NGA’s Accelerating Map of the World Initiative

    The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) has awarded Image Matters LLC a contract to address some of the agency’s most pressing challenges through its Accelerating Map of the World Initiative. The initiative will deliver innovative solutions that expedite and strengthen the agency’s Map of the World (MoW). MoW is foundational to the Intelligence Community’s object-based production environment.

    MoW will provide easy access to an expanded web of integrated intelligence (content within context), grounded by authoritative geospatial features, for everyday decision makers, operational users, and intelligence analysts.

    Image Matters LLC was selected for its proposed linked-data strategy addressing the integration of object-based-intelligence (OBI) with foundation geospatial intelligence. NGA seeks to enhance the capability to generate, curate, analyze and share structured OBI as linked data with originating information tracking.

    “This award builds upon a decade of advanced research and development into innovative analysis techniques for OBI,” said Harry Niedzwiadek, CEO of Image Matters LLC. “Our efforts began with NGA’s $1M Innovations in Geospatial Intelligence Award (2005), through which we pursued a vastly improved solution to what former Director James Clapper referred to as the ‘volume, velocity, variety and veracity (4V) problem’, known commonly today as the ‘Big Data problem’. Following this pioneering work, and complementary extended research with DARPA and others, we set our sights on next generation object-based production and analysis tools and services. Accelerating Map of the World has great potential to dramatically enhance the effectiveness and productivity of analysts, in a far more seamless and integrated fashion than ever before.”

  • USDA Certifies CompassData’s CompassTA Elevation Verification Software

    CompassData, a provider of geospatial data and services, announced that its CompassTA elevation accuracy software has received OCIO-ITS certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Certification allows 40,000 USDA users the opportunity to utilize CompassTA software for elevation accuracy verification of LiDAR point clouds, digital elevation models (DEM), and other raster data sets.

    “This certification provides assurance to our current and future USDA clients they are using a data verification tool that has been thoroughly scrutinized and tested by their own internal auditing process,” said Jeff Barker, CompassData product manager.

    USDA certified the CompassTA software through the Office of the Chief Information Officer – Information Technology Services (OCIO-ITS) within the Device Deployment Services Branch.

    Earlier this year, CompassData received DO-200A approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to use its CompassAA software and ground control points (GCPs) to verify the accuracy of satellite and aerial imagery for the creation of certain aviation products.

    CompassTA and CompassAA are software tools in CompassData’s CompassV&V line of Verification and Validation products. Based on the popular Topo Analyst and Accuracy Analyst software tools CompassData purchased from Spatial Information Solutions (SIS) in early 2014, the rebranded CompassV&V products include CompassAA, for orthorectified image verification, and CompassTA, for QA/QC of elevation data.

    For 20 years, CompassData has performed custom GCP collection for clients in the geospatial profession and archived those points in a database for commercial sale to other end users. The CompassV&V tools are used extensively with custom and archived GCP to verify the accuracy of geospatial imagery, surface and elevation models and many other spatial products.

    Used by numerous U.S. federal agencies under the SIS brand names, CompassV&V tools are content enhancement solutions that automate map accuracy verification and eliminate manual processing, ensuring consistent quality control of geospatial products backed up by standardized reporting procedures. Both tools establish automated workflows and generate standards-based documentation delivered along with end products.

    “Since acquiring and rebranding the CompassV&V tools, we have made administrative upgrades to enhance the user experience,” said Barker. “Additional improvements are in the works.”

    Leveraging the CompassV&V software tools, CompassData has expanded its custom Validation Service using GCPs. This service is offered for clients who prefer, or are required, to have an independent third-party perform quality assurance and supply verification reports, CompassData has licensed professionals on staff that perform Validation Services using high-quality GCPs along with the CompassV&V tools. The CompassData team can conduct this service faster and at lower cost than other firms that have to obtain their own GCPs.

  • Topcon Provides Software Add-on for Autodesk Integration

    Topcon Positioning has launched an eXchange software solution add-on for AutoCAD Civil 3D civil engineering design software. It is designed to save time by converting AutoCAD Civil 3D design data into files compatible with Topcon 3D construction solutions as well as the MAGNET software system.

    “Topcon eXchange enables construction site model designers and CAD experts to remain comfortable within their Autodesk software environments,” said Jason Hallett, vice president of global product management.  “Once design data is ready to be sent to an active project site, Topcon eXchange simply converts the Civil 3D design information — even complex road designs with defined corridors — into Topcon standard file formats, such as MJF (MAGNET Field job) for land surveying and construction layout, and TP3 (3D Topcon Project File) for machine control systems.

    “For years, the MAGNET system of software solutions has proven that easy and secure connectivity leads to measureable productivity and the new Topcon eXchange add-on is no different. After installation, users are offered the ability to log in to their own private and secure cloud-based company account from within Civil 3D, providing access to all of the project-related data that they have stored in MAGNET Enterprise,” said Hallett.

    The Topcon eXchange add-on is designed to provide a workflow for office staff to export original 3D design data for upload to the Topcon cloud.

    “Topcon eXchange bridges the geo-centric data between Autodesk’s Civil 3D and Topcon mobile workforce applications,” Hallett said.

  • MobileMapper 120, GIS Software Combine for Solution in Turkey

    Turkey MM120

    The Geomatics Group, a Spectra Precision distributor and GIS software developer in Turkey, is achieving excellent success marketing the Spectra Precision MobileMapper 120 handheld GIS mapping device running Mobile GIS software developed by the Geomatics Group, according to Spectra Precision.

    MobileMapper 120 uses a Windows open platform enabling it to run any Windows mobile application, including Spectra Precision applications for GIS or Survey, as well as third-party solutions that may better meet local regulations or specific customer requirements. The Geomatics Group has taken advantage of the Windows open platform to develop a specific application and integrated it with the MobileMapper 120 to provide a solution for its Turkish customers.

    A Geomatics Group spokesperson says that sales of the MobileMapper 120 are particularly strong in three sectors in Turkey: mapping electrical infrastructure, orthophoto survey, and mapping public land and assets. Recently, 150 units of the MobileMapper 120 with the Geomatics Mobile GIS software were sold to the Turkey General Directorate of National Property to assist in public property management. According to the spokesperson, the sub-meter accuracy of the Spectra Precision MobileMapper 120 and the Mobile GIS software’s fast and easy menu access, hierarchical database and easily modified attribute library were important features in tests conducted by the customer. In another MobileMapper 120 sale earlier this year, 48 units were sold to the Provincial Directorates of Urban Environment for use in 48 different cities.

    The spokesperson underscored the accuracy of the MobileMapper 120 that has impressed customers by reporting that one electrical grid customer who compared their ProMark 500 GNSS receiver to a MobileMapper 120, into which the Geomatics Group had installed a flying RTK option and using TUSAGA-Aktip (CORS-TR), found only a five-centimeter difference between the two receivers.

  • Drone Close Calls Cause Problems for Aircraft

    New data from the Federal Aviation Administration shows dozens of dangerous encounters around the country over the past six months, according to the Washington Post. Since June 1, commercial airlines, private pilots and air-traffic controllers have alerted the FAA to 25 episodes in which small drones came within a few seconds or a few feet of crashing into much larger aircraft. Many of the close calls occurred during takeoffs and landings at the nation’s busiest airports, presenting a new threat to aviation safety after decades of steady improvement in air travel.

    Portland International Airport (PDX) is one airport that has experienced a surge in near-collisions with small drones, including several close calls as reported by pilots, reports KGW-TV. Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley called on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop rules for drone technology.

    According to KGW, one pilot was flying his Piper Archer II just south of downtown Portland on September 20 when a small drone buzzed by his private airplane at 3,000 feet. In another incident on July 7, a Hawker Beechcraft BE35 reported passing an unmanned aircraft while flying near PDX at 2,200 feet.

    On September 11 and September 18, Port of Portland Police were notified by federal agents that someone was flying a drone 150-200 feet above their building. The FBI building sits just one-half mile from an airport runway. According to FAA reports, air traffic controllers at PDX could see the unmanned aircraft from the tower.

    Also, FAA data shows two incidents involving drones were reported in Medford, Oregon, on September 27 and October 24.

    Watch the video news story on the KGW-TV website.

  • Is Severe Weather Coming Your Way? Check Out Esri’s Map

    Esri-severe-weather-map-W

    Esri is offering a Severe Weather Public Information Map that charts instances of severe weather throughout the United States and Canada. Weather events tracked include snowstorms, tornadoes, floods, hail storms, wind storms, and short-term weather warnings issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

    The map features live feed layers. Users can click on reports and warnings to receive information about the specific location and read a short description about the issue. Radar is provided by AccuWeather and Environment Canada as part of the Esri Disaster Response Program.

  • Trimble Introduces New Solution for Interior Wall Layout

    Trimble is now offering Spectra Precision QML800 QuickMark Layout, a new solution that automates the layout of interior points and walls. The QML800 allows drywall and interior contractors to quickly and efficiently lay out points for interior building construction.

    With QML800, two lasers create a bright visible “X” directly on the point for easy, quick marking. The lasers are controlled by the mobile application running on with an Android tablet that stores the point files. When a point is selected, the lasers position the “X” at that point in less than 5 seconds. For brightest conditions, a laser pointer accessory easily aids in finding the laser beams.

    “The interior drywall contractor faces many challenges and complexities regarding scheduling, trade conflicts and layout accuracy. They need better tools and technologies that provide a quicker method of layout than tape measures,” said Mike Bank, general manager of Trimble’s Precision Tools business. “The QML800 is an affordable solution that addresses these challenges and automates the interior wall layout process.”

    On the jobsite, there are many potential causes for errors. The QML800 laser accuracy is typically 1/8 inch (3 mm), easily meeting most jobsite requirements. Misinterpreting drawings and tape measure reading errors are eliminated. Because each point is laid out independently, compounding errors from one bad point to another is eliminated. Complicated shapes, arcs and curves are now easy to layout. Multiple methods of simple point file creation are possible including CAD freeware, Excel spreadsheets and manual entry. Points can also be entered directly on the tablet at the jobsite as needed.

    The QML800 is designed to be used by layout crews without a surveying background. The tablet is intuitive with the normal swipe, scroll and enlarge functions. Compared to the traditional drawing and tape measure process, the QML800 saves labor, reduces errors and increases productivity. The solution is fast, accurate and easy to use.

    The Spectra Precision QML800 is expected to be available late November through the Spectra Precision global dealer network.

  • Interactive Senate Maps Seek to Explain International Issues

    The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee is offering a new webpage with a variety of interactive international maps using GIS technology.

    From showcasing maps reflecting worldwide GDP growth rates and unemployment rates, to highlighting Freedom House’s annual country–by–country report on political rights and civil liberties, the newly launched feature on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee website helps visually tell important global stories and trends, the committee said.

    “As chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, I want to find different ways to engage the public in key foreign policy issues, and the use of GIS technology is one way to do that,” said Chairman Menendez. “These dynamic maps help bring a new dimension to understanding international issues in a quick and visual way. From relaunching the committee’s website, to establishing a committee twitterfeed, and now utilizing this mapping technology, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is reaching out to broader and more diverse audiences to increase engagement on international issues.”

    The chairman’s maps were created using Esri’s Senate Analytical Mapping System, a product provided free–of–charge to congressional offices to conduct research and showcase trends using geospatial data visualizations.

    A screengrab of the new map feature on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee website.
    A screengrab of the new map feature on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee website.

  • LizardTech Updates Educational Licensing Program

    LizardTech, a provider of software solutions for managing and distributing digital content, is offering its complete product line to the students and faculty of higher education institutions for use in a research and teaching environment. Included in the program are the latest versions of GeoExpress, Express Server, LiDAR Compressor, and GeoGofer.

    To promote research and learning, LizardTech has included GeoExpress 9 in the educational licensing program. GeoExpress is a tool for compressing, manipulating, and viewing geospatial imagery. LizardTech has also included Express Server 9, an image server that students and faculty can use to share geospatial imagery with other researchers and students around the world. Because LizardTech software was designed with integration in mind, students can streamline their workflow by exporting imagery from GeoExpress directly to Express Server, LizardTech said.

    The educational licensing program also includes LiDAR Compressor, which turns giant point-cloud datasets into efficient MrSID files, and GeoGofer, the newest addition to the LizardTech product line. GeoGofer is LizardTech’s new organizational tool which includes search and filter features to simplify the process of finding and accessing imagery.

    Universities, schools, and research programs can get access to one of the two education bundles offered by the educational licensing program. The first educational license bundle includes one Express Server 9 license, one LiDAR compressor license, five GeoGofer licenses, and three GeoExpress 9 floating licenses with a three terabyte network data cartridge. With this bundle, the first year of support and maintenance is required and costs $1,999. From the second year onward, the annual support and maintenance fee will be $1,999 for each year.

    The second LizardTech educational license bundle includes one Express Server 9 license, two LiDAR Compressor licenses, 10 GeoGofer licenses, and 10 GeoExpress 9 floating licenses with one 10 terabyte network cartridge. The first year of support and maintenance is required and costs $2,999. From the second year onward, the annual support and maintenance fee will be $2,999 for each year.

    The software is provided at no cost to educational institutions as a right-to-use license. The license is valid for one year from the date that support was purchased and will be renewed on an annual basis upon receipt of payment for technical support and maintenance.

    “LizardTech realizes the importance of supporting academic institutions in their training of the next generation of geospatial professionals,” said Jon Skiffington, LizardTech’s director of product management. “By providing our entire geospatial line of products LizardTech is giving students and faculty the latest tools to compress and manipulate massive geospatial imagery and distribute it via the Internet to any device.”

    To learn more visit the educational licensing program page.

  • 1Spatial Launches The Little Book Of Smart Cities

    1Spatial plc, which specializes in spatial big data management, has launched The Little Book of Smart Cities, designed to provide insight into smart cities and how authoritative geospatial data is a foundation for success.

    The Little Book of Smart Cities features case studies and industry research, and explains how spatial data are fundamental to the concept of smart cities. The book details how the use of authoritative geospatial data is at the heart of a smart city. It can help city councils manage street lighting or trash-collection timetables, as well as providing the underlying information on which to build large infrastructure projects.

    “The Little Book of Smart Cities provides an insight into how authoritative spatial data benefits cities in a connected world,” commented Alison Masters, CMO, 1Spatial. “At 1Spatial we work with the users and creators of some of the largest big spatial databases to help smart city innovators solve the challenges they face. This book shines a light on spatial data and reveals how it is the very foundations on which a smart city is built.”

    1Spatial will also be showcasing 1Spatial Management Suite and Elyx GIS platform at the Smart Cities Expo, together with its consulting services, and highlighting how these can be used to help make cities smarter.

    1Spatial already has a wide offering in the arena of smart cities and has provided solutions for a number of locations, including Moorabool Shire Council in Australia and the Municipality of Schaerbeek in Belgium, which feature in The Little Book of Smart Cities. 1Spatial has a portfolio of customers across national, regional and local government, transport, utilities, land management and National Mapping Authorities.

    Han Wammes, 1Spatial Business Development Manager will be speaking in the UK Pavilion at 10.30am on Nov. 19 on the subject of “Geospatial Data: The Foundation of Smart Cities” by invitation of UK Trade and Investment. Han will look at how nearly all smart city projects have one common foundation — geospatial data. This can range from the simplest data feed to a complex, multi-partner integrated transport system.

    Smart City Expo World Congress is a benchmark in smart cities. The event introduces debate and shares pioneering approaches, highlighted by the speakers. It is a meeting point and networking opportunity for companies, government, entrepreneurs and research centers to show off their solutions, learn, share and inspire to support the development of the cities of the future.

    Pick up a copy of The Little Book of Smart Cities at Stand #F.621 and meet the 1Spatial Team. Nov. 18-20 at the Gran Via Venue, Barcelona, Spain. If you are not attending the event but would like to get your free copy of the book, visit the website.