ObliqueMapper: Benefits
Speed & Efficiency
ObliqueMapper allows for quick and efficient GIS data collection. Case studies show point collection rates of 2 to 4 times faster with ObliqueMapper compared to standard GPS mapping grade techniques - even when taking into account flight and photo orientation times. These results are obtainable because once photo acquisition and georeferencing are complete, the time required to collect a feature is simply how long it takes to digitize that feature. Traverse times between features and extended observation times due to poor GPS signal lock are issues commonly present during in field GIS data collection, but are absent with data collection via ObliqueMapper.
Reduced Field Time
Collection of GIS data through ObliqueMapper reduces the amount of time required in the field. Only data required for image orientation needs to be collected in the field. Hundreds of aerial oblique photos can be acquired in a relatively small amount of time and only a handful of GCPs are required to orient a photo set for digitzing. With ObliqueMapper's at-camera orientation functionality, potentially even fewer GCPs are required as GPS positions of the camera can be incorporated into the process. Rather than costly field operations, ObliqueMapper allows most types of GIS layers to be collected while in the office.
Remote/Inaccessible Area Mapping
At-camera orientation allows for the collection of features within areas that are either inaccessible or difficult to reach through typical GPS surveying techniques. GPS positions of the camera can be used to complement or even entirely replace GCPs within the area of interest. Mapping of flood extents, mountainous areas or large scale scenes (such as a building) where collection of GCPs throughout the imagery extents is prohibitive can all be mapped with ObliqueMapper.
Data Availability
With ObliqueMapper there is often no need to return to the field for new data collection. An archive of imagery allows features not initially considered to be digitized at a later time. Additionally, new photos can be flown and oriented using previously collected GCPs allowing for GIS updating or time series analysis.
Feature Quality
One of the primary benefits of ObliqueMapper is the ability to generate features that accurately resemble their real world counterparts. Often data collected via GPS requires extensive editing within GIS software to correct for positional errors. It is not uncommon for lines to be crooked and polygons to be misshaped. With ObliqueMapper there is no need for additional GIS editing as digitized features already resemble their corresponding real world features to a high degree.
