Case study
How Horus drives mobile mapping to the edge
Dutch innovator Horus turns vehicles into energy-efficient, real-time data centers by integrating Trimble Applanix technology into its Vertex system, delivering centimeter-level accuracy and edge computing that helps mapmakers globally reduce field time by 40%.
This solution saves time, reduces costs and opens up possibilities for use cases that really require almost real-time functionality.
— Dirk Aalbers
Horus Managing Director
Background
Mapping a new route to reality
Founded in 2011, Horus began with a simple observation: the world needed better maps, faster. Evolving from an effort to improve situational awareness for emergency responders, Horus is now a global software powerhouse specializing in turnkey mobile mapping solutions and co-creation services.
As demand for autonomous driving data and smart city infrastructure grows, the volume of sensor data has exploded. With the industry shifting toward electric vehicles (EVs), mapmakers face a new hurdle: finding professional-grade mapping systems that are lightweight and energy-efficient, without sacrificing high accuracy.
A black SUV equipped with the Vertex mobile mapping system leverages Trimble Applanix technology to capture high-accuracy data while driving.
Solution
Precision meets efficiency on the road
To solve the complex equation of power, precision and processing speed, Horus integrated Trimble Applanix solutions into its flagship product, the Vertex. This modular mobile mapping system allows clients to customize their sensor arrays while relying on a stable positioning backbone.
Horus selected the Trimble Applanix AP+ boards and the Trimble Applanix POS LV+ with built-in Trimble CenterPoint RTX. These solutions were chosen because they provide:
Centimeter-level accuracy in a compact footprint
A smaller, lightweight and low-power form factor designed for professional equipment
The computational capacity to run artificial intelligence (AI) models directly on the device
By utilizing these energy-efficient boards alongside powerful Nvidia GPUs, Horus engineered the Vertex to operate effectively on electric vehicles.
A close-up of the sensor array and camera system, designed to process complex data using AI models directly at the edge.
Results
Accelerating intelligence at the edge
The partnership between Horus’ software expertise and Trimble’s positioning reliability supports over 200 clients in more than 40 countries. By enabling edge computing — where data is analyzed within the vehicle rather than in a back office — Horus helps clients eliminate costly delays and opens up possibilities for real-time functionality.
The Vertex system requires only a single cable and can be powered by a standard 12-volt vehicle port, making it a true plug-and-play solution. By prioritizing low-power, high-accuracy components, Horus helps organizations reduce field time by 40% while improving data quality.
