Nottingham, UK, 12 December 2012 – Dutch surveying company Geomaat has developed a unique method of measuring safety barrier heights on European roads. Using 3D Laser Mapping’s mobile laser mapping system StreetMapper and automated feature extraction software, Geomaat can now process laser scanned point cloud to determine the height of the existing barrier. The software then automatically codes the georeferenced 3d model, green for acceptable and red for requiring attention.
Geomaat are also exploring the use of StreetMapper data to identify and record the locations of the miniscule detection wires located along the highway. Used to record traffic volumes, speeds and temperatures, for example, these provide essential intelligence for highways managers. In a similar development Geomaat is using the same point cloud data to calculate clearances and free heights along the highway prior to extensive resurfacing projects.
“The fundamental difference of using StreetMapper versus traditional surveying techniques for highways surveys, is that we can, and do, measure everything; quickly and with minimal disruption to other road users,” commented Jolle Jelle de Vries, Managing Director of Geomaat. “That means that when additional questions arise during the course of the project we already have the answers.”
“In addition to the highly accurate point cloud measurements StreetMapper also allows us to capture 360 degree georeferenced images,” continued de Vries. “These allow us to visualise the DTM, design, barriers etc in the real world context.”
These exciting developments are a result of extensive survey projects in the southern part of the Netherlands. Working on behalf of many of the civil construction companies awarded highways maintenance projects by the Dutch Road Administration Geomaat has surveyed more than 400 kilometres of road. Using StreetMapper Geomaat was able to complete the data capture element of the project within just four days, and within four weeks they had produced a DTM and complete pavement design with milling and asphalt figures. This compares to a project length in excess of 3 months for more traditional data capture and processing methodologies.
StreetMapper has been specifically designed for the rapid 3D mapping of highways, runways, railways, infrastructure and buildings. Using vehicle-mounted lasers offering a 360-degree field of view, StreetMapper enables high precision mapping to a range of 300 metres, a capacity of 550,000 measurements per second per sensor and recorded accuracies in independent real world projects of better than 10 millimetres.
About Geomaat
Geomaat is an independent surveying specialist based in the Netherlands. Geomaat are unique in their highway surveying capabilities combining mobile mapping techniques with specialist highways design, construction and maintenance expertise. Recent projects undertaken by Geomaat that have benefited from the use of the StreetMapper mobile mapping system include a project to upgrade the A50 between Ewijk and Valburg on behalf of the Rijkswaterstaat, an executive of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment, a project to upgrade the runway at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport and surveying over 500 kilometres of highway in support of LEM Contracts (Lifetime Maintenance). For further information see www.geomaat.com
About StreetMapper
StreetMapper has been developed by UK based 3D Laser Mapping in conjunction with German based guidance and navigation specialist IGI mbH. The system employs the latest laser scanning technology for improved field performance and accuracy, precision navigation including a solution for reduced GPS coverage in urban areas, combined with a flexible, modular configuration and increased ease of use and deployment. For further information see www.streetmapper.com
About 3D Laser Mapping
3D Laser Mapping is a global developer of laser scanning solutions for sectors such as mapping, mining and manufacturing. 3D Laser Mapping specialises in integrating laser scanning hardware with their own software and peripherals to create solutions at the cutting edge of technology. Through a worldwide network of distributors 3D Laser Mapping is able to provide frontline support and service for a growing international client base. 3D Laser Mapping is also the Riegl Premier Distributor for the UK, Ireland and sub-Saharan Africa and the leading distributor of TerraScan software. For further information see www.3dlasermapping.com
About IGI
IGI mbH was founded in 1978. The primary goal of the company was to manage airborne sensor systems for flight guidance, sensor control using GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and INS (Inertial Navigation Systems). Today the portfolio includes additional sensor systems using LiDAR, digital camera systems and thermal camera systems. IGI covers a wide variety of expertise in optics, electronics, mechanics, software development, and analytics through a team of highly qualified scientists, engineers and technicians. With over 30 years of experience, IGI offers not only integration of various sensors but also complete sensor systems for airborne and terrestrial survey missions. For further information see www.igi-systems.com