Lasermap utilizes only state-of-the-art digital cameras for both aerial and LiDAR data collection. These are accompanied by powerful on-board navigation and processing software. Twin-engine aircraft are used for data collection. Lasermap also utilizes the latest industry software products to process data and maintains the software and trained personnel to deliver the final products to our clients in the format required to meet the project needs of various mapping departments.
PROJECT CAMERAS
LiDAR Camera
The Optech Gemini 167 system used by Lasermap is the most reliable and accurate LiDAR systems available, capable of producing a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) to an accuracy of 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 in.) with point-to-point accuracies even better. Since this system can fly up to 4000 m, the system is extremely useful for large area applications where a high degree of accuracy and speed are necessary, or where accessibility is difficult. The ability to fly at a higher altitude requires fewer flight lines thus reducing project time and cost.
For more camera specifications,
ALTM_Gemini_167_Announcement 71201.pdf
Aerial Photography Cameras
For aerial photography, Lasermap utilizes both large and medium format digital camera systems. These include large format sensors, such as the Vexcel UltraCam-D and the Wehrli 3-DAS-1 airborne scanner, and the medium format Rollei camera.
Lasermap uses the UltraCam and 3-DAS-1 digital camera systems on larger aerial photography projects. These cameras provide the largest image format available (up to 86 megapixels: 11,500 pixels across track; 7,500 pixels along track) which means fewer flight lines.
The medium image format Rollei digital camera can be used along with or without the LiDAR system. The Rollei is most suitable for smaller projects or corridor projects where the swath width is not large. Used along with LiDAR, the Rollei system provides additional visual ground data that is recorded and serves to supplement the LiDAR data.
PROJECT AIRCRAFT
The LiDAR system, complete with integral GPS and IMU positioning systems, is mounted aboard the survey aircraft, which is fully equipped for the task. Piper Navajo, Aztec, Cessna, or equivalent twin-engine aircraft are typically used for fixed wing applications. While there are smaller aircraft that could be used for LiDAR operations, Lasermap has found the efficiencies generated with a larger plane result in faster collection times and better economy for the client.
PROJECT SOFTWARE
The primary software package used for processing the LiDAR data is Optech's REALM software. Additional post processing software packages are used to meet various client requirements. For example, volumetric calculations are performed using Terramodel's TerraSolid suite software. It is recognized as the industry-accepted terrain model calculation software with modules for many operations including volume determinations. Lasermap also uses Mapmetrics, ESRI ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, MicroStation, AutoCAD, and other programs within the TerraSolid suite of software.
Lasermap has developed an in-house "flood plain mapping" software package, which has proven to be superior to most other software packages. Lasermap has also developed specialized software algorithms for removing vegetation and noise levels while retaining ground elevation integrity for mapping of large flat areas with little relief and for flood risk mapping. This software is the property of Lasermap and involves a special modeling technique for elevations in the 15-45 cm range. The software enables automatic removal of LiDAR returns on the canopy of low growing vegetation without compromising the true relief of the ground. The software has been tested and has proven that 99% of the vegetation removal can be accomplished by automated means with a reliability exceeding 99%.
