3D Laser Mapping goes mobile to map highways

3D Laser Mapping has launched StreetMapper, a revolutionary mobile system for the capture of very detailed three dimensional map data. The vehicle-mounted system uses a series of lasers to measure the position of features relative to the moving vehicle. These highly accurate measurements are then processed, using proprietary software, to produce a detailed three dimensional model of the street corridor and overhead features.

StreetMapper is already being used by Reality Mapping to enable high-speed data collection for a wide variety of applications. The company specialises in applying new technology for the rapid collection of accurate survey and mapping data. The technology has already been used to create detailed road models for post accident investigation and cliff face mapping for the monitoring of coastal erosion.

"StreetMapper will revolutionise the way we map our road network and its immediate vicinity as it provides more detailed and accurate measurements than traditional survey techniques. Operating at speeds of up to 70 km an hour we can safely conduct surveys to create highly detailed base mapping of the road network and associated assets and features including width and height restrictions. StreetMapper can also undertake road surface and safety inspections creating detailed maintenance records for our highways." Said Martin Redstall, Managing Director of Reality Mapping. StreetMapper uses laser scanning technology to measure the position of features relative to the vehicle on which the system is mounted. The lasers transmit a light pulse that is reflected off the road surface or roadside feature and bounced back to the vehicle mounted receiver. Using the time taken for each individual pulse to be returned and the known value of the speed of light the StreetMapper system can automatically calculate the distance of the feature from the vehicle.

StreetMapper is also accurately calibrated so that each laser transmits its optical pulse at a known angle and uses satellite technology to calculate the exact real world position of each laser. Using basic trigonometric principles and these measurements and values the on board computer can process over 40,000 points per second to produce highly detailed and accurate three dimensional models.

StreetMapper is the latest addition to 3D Laser Mappings product portfolio that includes both terrestrial and airborne laser scanning solutions. 3D Laser Mapping integrate laser scanner hardware systems with own software and peripherals to create robust solutions for mapping, mining and manufacturing to name just a few.