Our philosophy surrounding the use, research and learning for technology needed to collect PLACE imagery is simple – adapt, innovate, evolve.
We are continuing to see rapid improvements in platforms, software and methodologies that help PLACE and our partners collect PLACE Data from the air and street. Members such as IO Aerospace (http://io-aerospace.com/) have equipped a Lear jet with the latest LIDAR and Ultracam Aerial cameras allowing 5000 sq km to be collected in a single hour, Blue Sky (https://bluesky-world.com/) uses a range of aerial platforms and camera and lidar systems to map large areas efficiently. For smaller area collection, our current UAV platform of choice from Event38, is integrating the latest in frameless, bodyless 64MP cameras and increasing flight times of its eVTOL E400 platform to close to two hours.
Our 360HD mobile mapping systems partners Mosaic (https://www.mosaic51.com/) are continuing to improve the fidelity, accuracy, and performance of their systems. Learning from field trials means we adapt other platforms such as GoPro (used in highly inaccessible locations) and NCTech, pairing them with external dual frequency GPS receivers and antennas to provide the best possible location accuracy.
The technology is constantly evolving, which means we need to be agile to ensure that our contracting processes are simple and cost effective to respond to. Our focus is on clear product definitions and setting a price per sq. km and linear km and allowing our partners to constantly innovate and improve their efficiency and financial performance.
PLACE does occasionally conduct data collection directly, mostly for smaller areas such as small island states where UAV’s make sense to use. This allows us to as a “think-do tank” keeping us fully abreast of the realities of data collection such as time needed, challenges, as well as best practices. It also allows us to be realistic and informed about pricing for our contracted work as well as continually share our knowledge openly through updated best practices guides, webinars, and videos.