Precision mapping technology
Applanix Direct Georeferencing
Minimize ground points, maximize efficiency
Direct Georeferencing delivers unmatched efficiency and precision for UAV surveys and mapping, making it the top choice for diverse applications. By understanding your project's unique requirements and choosing the right technology, you can ensure optimal outcomes and elevate your mapping capabilities.
What is Direct Georeferencing?
Direct Georeferencing (DG) is a revolutionary technology that directly measures the position and orientation of airborne mapping sensors, such as digital cameras or laser scanners. By assigning a precise geographical location to each pixel from a camera image or digital point from a laser, DG eliminates the need for ground control points or any additional ground-referenced measurements. Coined by Trimble Applanix, the term describes the use of GNSS-inertial technology to reduce costs and enhance the efficiency of aerial surveys. Unlike aerial triangulation or post-processed kinematic (PPK) processing, which require extensive image overlap and ground control points, DG provides survey-grade accuracy without these prerequisites. This leads to significant time and cost savings, enabling precise data capture even in challenging or inaccessible areas.
The exterior orientation (EO) of each image is pre-computed before any point-matching or adjustment phase. Unlike a PPK position-only DGNSS solution, having the full position and orientation of the payload eliminates issues associated with automatic project setup, failed point matching and reduced sidelap.
Direct Georeferencing for LiDAR measures the position and orientation of the LiDAR with respect to the Earth. This means the 3D coordinates of a point cloud calculated from LiDAR ranges and angles can be directly assigned a geographical location, without the need for ground control points.
- UAV survey and mapping in dangerous or hazardous areas: Ideal for post-disaster surveys where ground control points are unreliable or impossible to collect.
- Mapping inaccessible areas: Perfect for terrains like swamps, glaciers, and deserts where traditional ground control measures are impractical
- Corridor mapping: Highly efficient for mapping linear features like roads, pipelines, or transmission lines without extensive ground control networks
- Using LiDAR for precision survey and mapping: Essential for accurate and efficient georeferencing of LiDAR point clouds
Not all DG solutions are created equal. Trimble Applanix ensures the highest quality with:
- Tightly integrated GNSS and IMU solutions: designed for precise and reliable data.
- Custom-engineered IMUs: specifically built for Direct Georeferencing.
- Dual IMU options for gimballed configurations: Enhanced accuracy for complex setups.
- High-quality GNSS technology: Utilizing Trimble’s industry-leading components.
- Purpose-built post-processing software: Applanix POSPac MMS, optimized for DG applications, ensures the best possible results
With decades of experience in multi-frequency, multi-constellation differential GNSS and inertial-based positioning and orientation, Applanix DG offers a robust solution for professional aerial mapping on UAVs:
- Rugged, yet lightweight hardware: designed to withstand harsh conditions without adding unnecessary weight
- Powerful but not power-hungry technology: efficiently delivers powerful performance while conserving energy
- Custom-designed components: engineered to seamlessly integrate enabling technologies
- Proven accuracy: delivers highly accurate and precise results
- Global support: Backed by a network of skilled experts