Bringing Fixed Wing VTOL UAVs to a new accuracy frontier, from cm to mm
Proof of Concept delivered by Phase One & Pix4D using a Quantum Systems Trinity Pro
In recent years, fixed wing VTOL UAVs, payloads and photogrammetry solutions have seen an increase in adoption by the surveying market. Advancements in robotics have made fixed-wing VTOL UAV technology more reliable. The imaging industry has reached new levels with the help of smartphones, UAVs, and space exploration, highlighting the growing importance of imagery in everyday life. Photogrammetry is also becoming increasingly central to technical decision-making.
Despite the above, the fixed wing VTOL UAVs data capture still had a significant limitation in data accuracy and data capture reliability, which was created by mostly the limit imposed by fixed wing VTOL UAVs safe flight height and speed as well as standard payload capabilities.
Phase One and Pix4D have tackled the exercise to demonstrate the ability to bring VTOL UAV related technology (Quantum Systems Trinity Pro) to push boundaries, by achieving sub-1cm absolute accuracy at a sustainable, safe and efficient flight height.
Equipment and Project set up
UAV: Quantum Systems Trinity Pro (PPK)
Payload: Phase One P5 80mm lens
Software: Pix4Dmatic
Flight details and conditions:
Height: 60m / 200ft
Conditions: Cloudy day
UAV cruise speed : 18 m/s
Total number of images capture: 3660
Flight time: 45min
Instruments: Total station, Trimble S7 Robotic
Number of GCPs: 3
Number of check points: 10
GCP and check point accuracy: <= 2 mm. in XYZ-coordinates
Coordinates: ETRS89 / UTM zone 32N + DVR90 height – EPSG:25832+5799 [DVR90]
Project results
GCP mean RMS 0.036 mm
Check point mean RMS X / Y / Z 0.004 m / 0.004 m / 0.005 m
Learn more about the results here.
Phase One P5 and Pix4Dmatic
Phase One P5 is a light, metrically calibrated, ultra-high-resolution camera (128MP) designed for fixed wing UAVs such as Quantum Systems Trinity Pro which provides consistent superior imaging even in complex operational environments such as high contrast lighting conditions, windy days, and complex terrains / morphology.
Pix4Dmatic is a fast and accurate photogrammetry software that provides key inputs for decision making. Despite the total number of images and their resolution, in the Proof of Concept it was also proven that processing time for the calibration (aero triangulation) is very efficient (1 hour).
Conclusions
In this Proof of Concept, Phase One and Pix4D have demonstrated how a new standard is being set for rapid data collection with superior accuracy, providing surveyors and mapping professionals with powerful tools to capture and deliver precise geospatial data quickly with reliability for complex and demanding projects.
About Pix4D
Pix4D products are developed in Lausanne, Switzerland. Pix4D has five additional offices in the USA, Germany, Spain, Romania, and Japan. The company develops end-to-end mapping solutions that convert images into survey-grade georeferenced maps, models, and other business-critical insights using advanced algorithms based on computer vision, photogrammetry, and machine learning.
About Phase One
Phase One is a global leader in digital imaging technology. The company provides unrivaled imaging quality for a wide range of applications, from professional photography to heritage digitization, industrial inspections, aerial mapping, security and space.
For more than three decades, Phase One has developed core imaging technologies and a range of digital cameras and imaging modules, setting new standards for image quality in terms of resolution, dynamic range, color fidelity and geometric accuracy.
Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, and with regional offices strategically located in Denver, Cologne, Tel Aviv, Saku, Tokyo, Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, Phase One nurtures long-term relationships with customers, technology partners and its global network of distributors, often playing the role of digital imaging partner to customers with unique requirements. It is with this passion for service that Phase One continually exceeds expectations and drives the imaging industry forward.
We deliver Imaging Beyond Imagination.
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