Livermore, Calif. – May 6, 2010 – GeoNav Group International, Inc., with offices in Great Falls, Mont., Durango, Colo., Indianapolis, Ind. and Charlotte, N.C., is using Topcon’s IP-S2 3D mobile mapping system to quickly and accurately map the infrastructure of rural utilities in the United States.
Topcon’s IP-S2 incorporates high-accuracy GPS, inertial measurement unit technology (IMU), 360º digital imaging and a state-of-the-art vehicle-mounted laser scanner.
The intent of this mapping project is to assist in advancing the information technology interests of rural utilities and their affiliates. With the use of this new technology, GeoNav is helping electric and telephone utilities strengthen their businesses by providing massive amounts of accurate and thorough map data that has not been available to rural consumers in the past.
Erik Potter, vice president and co-founder of GeoNav, said, “Massive amounts of 3D data are being collected in urban environments and accessed by a growing number of users but there is a lack of 3D data and spatially accurate road information available for rural America. GeoNav is changing this. Ultimately 1,576 rural U.S. counties and all rural utilities will have access to this new immersive data.
“Without the new technology, the collection of GIS data for many utilities had been unaffordable and time consuming. GeoNav is accomplishing the task faster and with greater precision using Topcon’s IP-S2. Rural utilities will now have accurate, detailed and affordable GIS data, in a few months rather than the typical 18 month time frame,” he said.
Dave Henderson, IP-S2 specialist and national sales manager at Topcon Positioning Systems, said, “The opportunities for applications of this technology are vast and GeoNav has found one that will benefit an infrastructure need not addressed in the past.”
GeoNav is using multiple vehicles with the Topcon IP-S2. Potter said, “The near-term goal of the company is to have vehicles stationed throughout the U.S., driving and collecting data non-stop.”
About Topcon Positioning Systems
Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. (TPS) designs and manufactures precise positioning products and solutions for the global surveying, construction, agriculture, civil engineering, mapping and GIS, asset management and mobile control markets. TPS’ parent company, Topcon Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange – 7732), was founded in 1932.