20 Years of Geomatics World

winter 2020 Issue No 4 • Volume 28

In Alliance with GIM International WWW.GEOMATICS-WORLD.CO.UK

Plus ça Change Innovation, Resilience The Future of Geospatial Integrating UAV-based Lidar and Diversity at PCA and Photogrammetry

01_cover.indd 1 02-12-20 16:23

CONTENTS

Geomatics World is published quarterly by P. 21 20 YEARS OF GW Geomares Publishing UK Ltd on behalf of the Stephen Booth, editor from 1995 to 2017 looks Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Geomatics Professional Group and is distributed to group at the highlights of GW, and key moments in members and other subscribing professionals. geomatics.

Publisher: Durk Haarsma Editor: Ian Dowman P. 26 THE FUTURE OF GEOSPATIAL Advertising: Feline van Hettema Content Manager: Wim van Wegen Vanessa Lawrence asks “are we everyone’s Copy Editor: Claire Koers friend or do they not know we exist?” Production Manager: Myrthe van der Schuit

EDITORIAL BOARD Ruth Adams, Stephen Booth, Pat Collins, Nick Day, P. 30 INNOVATION, RESILIENCE AND DIVERSITY Ian Dowman, Kate Fairlie, James Kavanagh, Peter Folwell glances back and looks forward Jon Mills, Stuart Robson, Nathan Spencer, through the Plowman Craven lens. Thomas Wren.

OVERSEAS SOURCES Roy Dale – New Zealand P. 32 THE EVOLUTION OF THE SMART SURVEYOR Nick Day – USA Craig Hill sets out ﬁ ve trends which will bring about the next generation surveyors. CONTACT DETAILS Geomares Postbus 112 8530 AC Lemmer, The Netherlands P. 34 INTEGRATING UAV-BASED LIDAR AND Tel: +31514561854 PHOTOGRAMMETRY E-mail: [email protected] A case study using dense 3D point cloud Web: www.geomatics-world.co.uk generation with ultra-high precision from the University of Stuttgart. MATERIAL TO BE PUBLISHED While all material submitted for publication will be handled with care and every reasonable effort is made to ensure the accuracy of content in Geomatics World, the publishers will have no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content. Furthermore, the views and opinions P. 04 Editorial P. 18 Undercurrents expressed in Geomatics World are not necessarily P. 05 From the publisher P. 20 TSA Column those of the RICS. P. 06 Headlines P. 29 Issues to Consider Before P. 12 RICS Policy Watch Using UAVs for Land Reprints: Reprints of all articles are available. P. 15 Gordon Johnston Administration Projects. Please send an e-mail to [email protected] for details.

Advertising: Information about advertisement rates, FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA schedules etc. are available in a media pack. Please email Feline van Hettema bit.ly/geomaticstwitter ([email protected])

Design: ZeeDesign, Witmarsum, www.zeedesign.nl Printing: Veldhuis Media, Raalte, www.veldhuismedia.nl

winter 2020 Issue No 4 • Volume 28 COVER STORY The cover image is a in AlliAnce with GiM internAtionAl WWW.GEOMATICS-WORLD.CO.UK collage of covers from 20 Years of Geomatics World 1999 to 2020 showing key themes covered by GW.

Plus ça Change Innovation, Resilience The Future of Geospatial Integrating uAV-based lidar and Diversity at PCA and Photogrammetry

01_cover.indd 1 02-12-20 16:23

Winter 2020 3

03_contents.indd 3 03-12-20 11:23 Editorial by Ian Dowman by Durk Haarsma FROM THE PUBLISHER

The Key Message is Still Communication A Note on the End of GW

Geomatics World and its a major contribution to understanding and adapting to This is the last issue of Geomatics World. In recent predecessors have been climate change. James Kavanagh looks at policy issues years, it has become more and more difficult to published for many years, so it is and reflects on this being the final issue of GW, but also continue with printed publications. Lower income and particularly sad that this series notes some places where information on geomatics higher prices create constant pressure for publishers, of publications is coming to an can still be found. A recent addition to GW has been whether they are commercial publishers or institutes end. The cost of publishing a the column from The Survey Association and this has like RICS. hard copy magazine when so kept readers up to date on their activities and those of much can be done digitally and The Survey School. TSA has also reported on the steps Your own Geomatics World has been a joint via the internet, compounded by that they have taken to help stop instrument theft. cooperation between RICS and a publishing company restrictions imposed because these have been invaluable to practitioners. for years and years (you can read more about that link of Covid-19, have forced this and the history of Geomatics World in other parts of conclusion on us. This final The existence of GW has coincided with many changes this issue). This joint effort has not escaped from the Ian Dowman, editor of Geomatics World issue looks back on what has in geomatics and the collection, management and use real demolition that is going on in the media and, as been included in GW over the of geospatial data, but we still cannot decide on what an old-fashioned publisher and editor, that hurts. As past twenty years and at the major changes in to call our activities! James Kavanagh comments on a more forward-looking media-maker, I still believe in geomatics, and also looks to the future. this, but the point made by Vanessa Lawrence, and the beautifully made magazines filled with good journalism, Geospatial Commission, is surely the most critical - that keeping a professional community up to date, while at Stephen Booth, whose role in making GW what it we need to get the message across that geospatial the same time serving as a platform for that community. is, has been highly formative. Takes a detailed look data and location are vital for so many modern-day at what has been covered in the magazine and at activities. Many, many people have given their best to this the developments which have changed the survey magazine over the years: editors, columnists, authors, industry. Peter Folwell from PCA looks at how these I would like to thank all those who have contributed developments have affected commercial companies. to making the magazine successful. I took over Looking to the future, Vanessa Lawrence reviews from Stephen Booth who made GW the force that it the use of geospatial data in the wider international has become, and his support and inspiration have community and reflects that changes have altered been invaluable, as has help from Richard Groom, the way in which geospatial data is perceived among Technical Editor until recently. The editorial board has decision-makers around the world; changes in no also provided support and of course we thank all small part brought about by herself. She notes that contributors, especially the columnists. The staff from there is still a lot to do to promote the understanding of Geomares, led by Durk Haarsma, have always given the importance of location data. Craig Hill from Leica excellent back up, as has James Kavanagh from RICS. Geosystems looks at what a smart surveyor might look like in the future. It has been a great privilege to edit GW since 2017 and I hope that the magazine has reflected activities and We also have space to include a technical paper on developments in geomatics over that period. There Integrating UAV-based Lidar and Photogrammetry are many on-line publications which report on new using dense 3D Point Cloud Generation by Norbert products and interesting projects, but we hope that Haala and colleagues, and a short summary of how GW has provided a useful UK focus on our profession. UAVs can be used for land registration. All the elements of these papers being key to the future processing of We wish our readers an enjoyable Christmas season data. and a better 2021 than 2020!

Our columnists all reflect on changes over the last twenty years and look to the future. Gordon Johnston, as ever not letting us forget the importance of the oceans, comments on how new technology can make Ian Dowman, Editor

4 Winter 2020

04-05_editorials.indd 4 03-12-20 12:07 Editorial by Ian Dowman by Durk Haarsma FROM THE PUBLISHER

The Key Message is Still Communication A Note on the End of GW

a major contribution to understanding and adapting to This is the last issue of Geomatics World. In recent advertising and sales people, and climate change. James Kavanagh looks at policy issues years, it has become more and more difficult to the majority of the geo-companies in and reflects on this being the final issue of GW, but also continue with printed publications. Lower income and the United Kingdom. Naming names notes some places where information on geomatics higher prices create constant pressure for publishers, here would be unfair, particularly can still be found. A recent addition to GW has been whether they are commercial publishers or institutes if I forget a few, so a big thanks to the column from The Survey Association and this has like RICS. everybody involved in the production kept readers up to date on their activities and those of of Geomatics World throughout the The Survey School. TSA has also reported on the steps Your own Geomatics World has been a joint years! It might very well have been that they have taken to help stop instrument theft. cooperation between RICS and a publishing company the corona crisis that pushed us these have been invaluable to practitioners. for years and years (you can read more about that link over the edge, and somewhere at and the history of Geomatics World in other parts of the back of my mind I hope we’ll be The existence of GW has coincided with many changes this issue). This joint effort has not escaped from the back with a magazine for the UK in geomatics and the collection, management and use real demolition that is going on in the media and, as geospatial community one day. Durk Haarsma, of geospatial data, but we still cannot decide on what an old-fashioned publisher and editor, that hurts. As publisher of Geomatics World to call our activities! James Kavanagh comments on a more forward-looking media-maker, I still believe in For now, I urge you to go to the this, but the point made by Vanessa Lawrence, and the beautifully made magazines filled with good journalism, website of GIM International at Geospatial Commission, is surely the most critical - that keeping a professional community up to date, while at www.gim-international.com to find both global and UK we need to get the message across that geospatial the same time serving as a platform for that community. news, and to stay updated with what’s going on in the data and location are vital for so many modern-day world of geomatics. activities. Many, many people have given their best to this magazine over the years: editors, columnists, authors, Durk Haarsma, Publisher I would like to thank all those who have contributed to making the magazine successful. I took over from Stephen Booth who made GW the force that it has become, and his support and inspiration have been invaluable, as has help from Richard Groom, Technical Editor until recently. The editorial board has also provided support and of course we thank all contributors, especially the columnists. The staff from Geomares, led by Durk Haarsma, have always given excellent back up, as has James Kavanagh from RICS.

It has been a great privilege to edit GW since 2017 and I hope that the magazine has reflected activities and developments in geomatics over that period. There are many on-line publications which report on new products and interesting projects, but we hope that GW has provided a useful UK focus on our profession.

We wish our readers an enjoyable Christmas season and a better 2021 than 2020!

Winter 2020 5

04-05_editorials.indd 5 03-12-20 12:07 HEADLINES

Trimble and Boston Dynamics Partnership to Extend Use of HxGN Content Program Aerial Imagery Autonomous Robots in Construction Available on UP42 Geospatial Marketplace Trimble and High-resolution Boston Dynamics aerial imagery from are entering a the HxGN Content strategic alliance Program is now to integrate available on the UP42 a variety of developer platform construction for Earth observation data collection HxGN Content Program 15 cm-resolution data and analytics. technologies with imagery of Bahá’í House Of Worship, UP42 customers Boston Dynamics’ Wilmette, Illinois - RGB and NIR bands. may now choose The Spot robot can be equipped with integrated Spot robot from nearly 11 million scanning, total station and GNSS technologies. platform. The square kilometres of 30cm orthorectified imagery for North jointly-developed America and Europe and over 500,000 sq km of 15cm data solution will combine the Spot robot’s autonomous mobility for major US cities in the Hexagon aerial image library. UP42 with Trimble’s data collection sensors and field control software gives users direct access to extensive Earth observation to enable automation of repetitive tasks such as site scans, data sets and advanced processing algorithms – along with surveying and progress monitoring, while taking advantage of the cloud computing power – to create their own geospatial robot’s unique capabilities to navigate dynamic and potentially solutions easily and inexpensively. The platform provides unsafe environments. The relationship gives Trimble exclusivity all the tools UP42 customers need to develop geospatial to sell and support the Spot robot with integrated scanning, total workflows, applications, and even commercial products. station and GNSS technologies for the construction market. “The HxGN Content Program is a valuable addition to the This turnkey solution will streamline operation of the robot UP42 marketplace because it is an extremely vast library of and provide quality control for missions, enabling construction orthorectified aerial imagery available for Europe and North project managers to easily get a clear picture of jobsite progress America,” said UP42 CEO Sean Wiid. “This data can be on an ongoing basis. Trimble technologies integrated with the accessed within the UP42 console or via API, where it can robot enable accurate, scalable and rapid data acquisition be downloaded, processed, or integrated into geospatial while Trimble’s construction collaboration platforms provide products.” a continuous flow of information between field and office. In https://bit.ly/2K9hTgw addition, customers will benefit from local support and service from Trimble and its distribution partners. https://bit.ly/36KcQux IHO Releases New Standards for Hydrographic Surveys Earlier this month, the IHO released a new edition of the Standards for Esri Acquires nFrames to Prioritize 3D Capabilities Hydrographic Surveys (S-44). In addition Esri has announced its acquisition of nFrames, a German Murphy Surveys Rebranded to surveys to support the safety of technology company that develops SURE, an industry-leading as Murphy Geospatial navigation, these standards can be imagery and Lidar 3D surface reconstruction software. This will This change reflects the rapidly changing land surveying adapted for oil and gas, renewable enable the fusion of imagery with 3D GIS, allowing nFrames industry and the evolution of the company’s services to energies, dredging, geophysics and and Esri users to seamlessly capture and analyse 3D data from meet these developing needs. The company, which employs geotechnics. By clarifying the required aerial, drone and ground-based sensors in an automated end- around 300 people across offices in six countries, works with levels of accuracy, they will help define to-end process. SURE scales 3D data creation to large city and its clients to capture, collate, verify and govern geospatial the requirements in terms of technology, countrywide airborne image datasets and projects, while giving data, allowing them to reduce risk and make strategic time and human resources and will save professional photogrammetry workflows improved precision, decisions with confidence. S-44 Edition 6.0.0 valuable resources. One of the notable speed, and simplicity on premises or in the cloud. Through this Standard for Hydrographic changes in this latest version is the acquisition, Esri gains a robust production engine that transforms Growing on the concept of geospatial certainty, the firm Surveys. introduction of a new, more stringent imagery and Lidar data into point clouds, phototextured 3D has recently enhanced its offering to the market with its classification for surveys called ‘Exclusive meshes, and true orthos. Users in government; urban planning; GeoCERT platform – an integration of its people, processes Order’, which expands the standards’ applicability. This is designed or architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) can use and technology that is providing greater efficiencies for for specific critical areas such as harbours and channels with SURE to generate 3D maps at scales from individual construction its clients. The platform will ultimately be developed to minimum under keel clearance and bottom characteristics which sites to entire cities and countries. “nFrames is a leading provider incorporate artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and could be hazardous to vessels. In these specific areas, an increased of 3D image reconstruction software and services, and I am other new developments as the construction industry moves accuracy of +/- 10cm on a map can help precisely determine excited to welcome the company to the Esri family,” said Jack towards even greater technological involvement. requirements for dredging and avoid unnecessary costs. Dangermond, Esri founder and president. “As Esri continues https://bit.ly/3f7qzzk down its path of innovation to create a multidimensional

6 Winter 2020

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Bluesky and University of Leicester Partner in Lidar Pix4D Launches Software for Detailed Tree Analysis for Large-scale UAV Mapping Bluesky Switzerland-based photogrammetric leader Pix4D has announced the International commercial release of Pix4Dmatic: digital photogrammetry software for is co-funding accurate and fast corridor and large-scale mapping. Pix4Dmatic has research into been created to meet an evolving demand as professionals map bigger the use of and bigger areas around the world. Projects that would previously have Lidar, machine been mapped by aircraft are now being surveyed with drones. With learning Pix4Dmatic, these expert projects are made possible and easier. Drone and artificial flights beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS), when permitted by law, Visual representation of a Lidar scan of a intelligence are often considered the next frontier of drone mapping. Pix4Dmatic now forest. (image courtesy: Tom Potter) to create also offers support for the large datasets resulting from multiple flights by citywide easily processing over 10,000 images without compromising the results’ maps of trees enriched with new levels of information accuracy. According to Pix4D, this software will potentially open the door in an advanced postgraduate degree study in to a new era of drone mapping. Christoph Strecha, Pix4D’s founder partnership with the UK’s University of Leicester. A and CEO, explains: “Pix4Dmatic will revolutionize the way corridor and specialist in aerial mapping, Bluesky uses aircraft large-scale surveys are completed by creating the opportunity for every mounted lasers (Lidar) to capture millions of highly surveying and mapping professional to achieve high-quality and reliable accurate measurements called point clouds that results.” detail the earth’s surface and features. Bluesky has https://bit.ly/3nDsrTP already pioneered nationwide maps detailing the location, height and canopy cover of trees and this R&D project is expected to result in an automated workflow for the extraction of tree structural features and the classification of tree species. “We have recently upgraded the sensor used to capture Lidar point clouds so we have more detailed and accurate measurements than ever before. We are therefore exploring how artificial intelligence and machine learning can be applied to extract additional intelligence from this data in the most efficient, accurate and cost- effective way,” commented James Eddy, technical director at Leicestershire-based Bluesky. Pix4Dmatic, the digital photogrammetry software. https://bit.ly/3lH6OBf

Esri Acquires nFrames to Prioritize 3D Capabilities Esri has announced its acquisition of nFrames, a German experience, this acquisition enhances our ability to create technology company that develops SURE, an industry-leading extremely high-quality 3D data from imagery, which is critical for imagery and Lidar 3D surface reconstruction software. This will our customers in the municipal, planning, and AEC industries.” enable the fusion of imagery with 3D GIS, allowing nFrames https://bit.ly/3ky1oY0 and Esri users to seamlessly capture and analyse 3D data from aerial, drone and ground-based sensors in an automated end- to-end process. SURE scales 3D data creation to large city and countrywide airborne image datasets and projects, while giving professional photogrammetry workflows improved precision, speed, and simplicity on premises or in the cloud. Through this acquisition, Esri gains a robust production engine that transforms imagery and Lidar data into point clouds, phototextured 3D meshes, and true orthos. Users in government; urban planning; or architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) can use SURE to generate 3D maps at scales from individual construction sites to entire cities and countries. “nFrames is a leading provider of 3D image reconstruction software and services, and I am excited to welcome the company to the Esri family,” said Jack Dangermond, Esri founder and president. “As Esri continues down its path of innovation to create a multidimensional nFrames’ Sure software will become part of Esri’s ArcGIS platform.

Winter 2020 7

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Esri UK Signs Partnership With Drone Hardware 4 Earth Intelligence Specialist Heliguy to Create End-to-End Drone Launches Countrywide Solution for AEC Satellite Intelligence Data Esri UK today announced a new partnership with drone specialists Heliguy Earth observation company 4 Earth Intelligence to complete its end-to-end drone solution designed for the AEC industry. (4EI) has launched a suite of data layers providing The final piece in Esri UK’s strategy to offer all parts of the drone workflow, insight into a country’s wealth, demographics the partnership will provide customers with drone hardware, pilot training and transportation links. Derived from satellite and flying services from Heliguy, adding to Esri’s existing drone flight imagery and other reputable resources, including planning, data capture, data processing and GIS software. Containing the World Bank, OpenStreetMap, census records these processes in one solution provides users with a more cost-effective and historical archives, the Country Intelligence workflow and saves time. data suite has been created to support economic analysis, policymaking and SMART Sustainable Offering a compelling solution to AEC organisations looking for integrated Development Goals (SDGs) reporting. and scalable drone programmes, the new partnership aims to streamline current processes, from drone management and data capture, through to “Satellite imagery records what is happening on the data analysis and better sharing of outputs across a business, including planet rather than what is being reported and so is integration with BIM and CAD workflows. the perfect resource, when combined with multiple, validated data sources, to provide off-the-shelf Current Esri drone software customers include Skanska Norway, Arcadis resources for countrywide intelligence on economic and PCL Construction in North America, while UAV specialist Heliguy and societal health,” commented David Critchley, manages some of Europe’s largest drone programmes, working with CEO of 4 Earth Intelligence. “Whilst each layer Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Network Rail. has enormous potential to inform the creation of adaption strategies, including the delivery of SDGs, Through the new partnership, Esri UK and Heliguy will work on joint and emergency responses, the true potential of projects, aiming to introduce new and more efficient workflows by bringing the Country Intelligence suite is released when the together customers’ GIS and Survey teams who have traditionally worked layers are used in combination.” separately on drone-related projects. https://bit.ly/38Y5NB8 https://bit.ly/2Vk8hBQ

Multi-use image of Addis Ababa, combining Points of Interest & Landcover, Raw Imagery, and Wealth Index from top left to bottom right. (Image courtesy: 4EI, Mapbox, OpenStreetMap) UK Site Scan_3D drone flight planning.

University of Colorado to Establish Trimble Technology Lab The University of Colorado in Denver, USA, has received a Trimble allows the University of Colorado, Denver to integrate significant gift from Trimble to establish a state-of-the-art the latest technology into its curricula, empowering graduates Technology Lab for the College of Engineering, Design and to rapidly transform how buildings and living environments are Computing. The gift will also support the departments or designed and constructed. programmes in construction engineering and construction https://bit.ly/32TKME6 management, geography & environmental sciences, physics, and urban and regional planning. The lab will expand the university’s access and expertise in a customized suite of construction hardware and software products. The Trimble Technology Lab will provide students enrolled across relevant programmes hands- on experience with a wide breadth of Trimble solutions. The lab will expand the university’s access and expertise in project management, architectural and structural analysis, design and engineering, mixed reality, 3D scanning, office-to-field solutions, and GIS data collection and GNSS positioning. Partnering with Trimble has awarded a Trimble Technology Lab to the University of Colorado.

8 Winter 2020

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Esri UK Signs Partnership With Drone Hardware Introducing Airwards: Specialist Heliguy to Create End-to-End Drone A Unifying Global Accreditation Scheme UK Firm Invests in Revolutionary 3D Solution for AEC Championing Groundbreaking Drone Work Ground Probing Radar (GPR) System Esri UK today announced a new partnership with drone specialists Heliguy Airwards was launched in London in October. Airwards is a unifying global Award-winning sub-surface radar experts Macleod to complete its end-to-end drone solution designed for the AEC industry. accreditation scheme recognising best practice drone work. Launching in Simmonds have announced that they The final piece in Esri UK’s strategy to offer all parts of the drone workflow, association with ARPAS-UK, this digital awards scheme and not-for-profit continue to invest in their High-Density Array the partnership will provide customers with drone hardware, pilot training will champion a wide range of UAV work which is positively advancing Ground Probing Radar (HDAGPR) fleet, with the and flying services from Heliguy, adding to Esri’s existing drone flight human capabilities. Covering more than 20 different disciplines, Airwards addition of the new generation 2.1m 3D Radar planning, data capture, data processing and GIS software. Containing will recognise the very best UAV projects, companies and individuals system. This is the largest array of its type in the UK these processes in one solution provides users with a more cost-effective leading the way in innovation, responsibility and real-world solutions. currently, covering a wider footprint with each pass workflow and saves time. which enables a higher coverage per shift and a The brainchild of digital entrepreneur Richard Nichols, Airwards has been greater general efficiency when on site. Mixed with Offering a compelling solution to AEC organisations looking for integrated established to bring together the drone community and raise awareness of the company’s GPR expertise, this new system and scalable drone programmes, the new partnership aims to streamline positive drone uses with the wider general public. The independent awards opens up new markets, whilst providing existing current processes, from drone management and data capture, through to platform will champion UAV projects that are pushing boundaries, creating markets with more information than was previously data analysis and better sharing of outputs across a business, including innovative solutions and transforming industries. Winners will be selected possible in a single application. integration with BIM and CAD workflows. by a panel of expert judges who will be announced in the coming weeks. This groundbreaking unit is based on a continuous Current Esri drone software customers include Skanska Norway, Arcadis How the awards work wave – a different technology to previous ‘impulse and PCL Construction in North America, while UAV specialist Heliguy Airwards is open to a range of companies, including UAV specialists centre frequency’ based systems. The array manages some of Europe’s largest drone programmes, working with disrupting an industry, start-ups using drone technology for creative operates at between 100Mhz and 3Ghz which Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Network Rail. solutions, and large corporations driving innovation. There are more than allows it to see deeper, whilst also being able to 20 awards in total, spanning a wide variety of uses and sectors including collect high resolution information at shallower Through the new partnership, Esri UK and Heliguy will work on joint technology, operations, supporting services, industry specific and giving depths. Essentially, these advances allow the new projects, aiming to introduce new and more efficient workflows by bringing back. system to perform a single acquisition, looking for together customers’ GIS and Survey teams who have traditionally worked both shallow and deep utilities, then re-analyse the separately on drone-related projects. Entrants will be able to submit their work from 1 December 2020 until same data for pavement construction information https://bit.ly/2Vk8hBQ 12 February 2021. Award submission costs vary and winners will be and/or buried structure conditional data. announced by late May 2021. For full details on how to enter and more information, visit www.airwards.online. The application specification is vital as the unit can be optimised to collect data at motorway speeds Entrants must successfully meet the Airwards criteria to be shortlisted. for some applications, which provides the expert Amongst others, the three main criteria are: team at Macleod Simmonds with the ability to 1 Innovative: Promoting pioneering ideas that are successfully customise the operation to best fit the environment challenging the perception of what a drone is and can be. and objectives of the survey. 2 Responsible: Recognising the key aspect of safety in every drone flight to advocate legitimate behaviour as a standard best practice. In terms of deployment, the 3D Radar is easily 3 Real-world: Asking the question: ‘How are drones making a transportable and ready to survey in minutes. The difference?’ by demonstrating quantifiable outcomes and tangible data produced is of exceptional clarity, providing solutions. highly accurate data to produce a more informed report. This enables the team to choose the best route before the ground is broken, increasing the University of Colorado to Establish Trimble Technology Lab effectiveness and productivity of the field teams by Trimble allows the University of Colorado, Denver to integrate reducing the time spent on site. This results in huge the latest technology into its curricula, empowering graduates cost savings to large infrastructure projects. to rapidly transform how buildings and living environments are designed and constructed. https://bit.ly/32TKME6

Trimble has awarded a Trimble Technology Lab to the University of Colorado.

Winter 2020 9

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Stephen Slessor Thermal Mapping Helps Becomes CICES President London Solar Opportunity Map Target UK Government Green Home Grants Stephen Slessor has Launched by Greater London Authority Using a high-tech thermal imaging camera to measure heat loss from roofs, become the thirty- The London Solar Opportunity Map, created by UCL Energy Institute, aerial mapping company Bluesky International is helping to identify poorly second President has been launched by the Greater London Authority (GLA), showing insulated homes and other public buildings. of the Chartered the energy potentially available from photovoltaic (PV) installations or Institution of Civil heat from thermal collectors on all roofs and open land within the M25 The property level heat loss maps provide an accurate and up-to-date Engineering Surveyors motorway. picture that could be used to pinpoint homes eligible for financial support (CICES). Stephen such as the UK Government’s Green Homes Grants. is currently Regional Director within Scotland for The GLA launched the Solar Opportunity Map in early September Morrison Construction’s environment business, part 2020. The map was created by a team at the UCL Energy Institute and The UK Government recently announced a package of grants worth a of the Galliford Try group. He is a firm advocate of the the UCL Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis. It shows the energy total £2 billion for energy-efficient home improvements, including installing digital transformation of the civil engineering industry. potentially available, either as electricity from PV installations or as heat insulation, double glazing and replacing old boilers. The remaining £1 billion Plans for his presidential year include introducing an from thermal collectors, on all roofs and areas of open land for the whole of the package will be spent making public buildings, including schools online knowledge hub to support members in their of the capital out to the M25 motorway. It is based on a 3D model of and hospitals, more environmentally friendly, with £50 million going towards professional development and improve support and terrain, buildings, other structures and trees derived from Lidar – laser retrofitting social housing with insulation, double glazing and heat pumps. communications internationally. He is keen to keep measurements made from overflying aircraft. This is a tool that will help academic pathways to civil engineering relevant and to achieve the London Mayor’s targets of 1GW of installed solar power Geospatial colour-coded maps engaged with industry, and recently became a visiting by 2030, and 2GW by 2050. “The government announcement of support for homeowners to improve professor at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen. the energy efficiency of their homes as part of a wider green jobs package He is a self-confessed example of ‘no wrong path’ into Solar Radiation brings thermal surveys to the forefront,” commented Rachel Tidmarsh, the civil engineering professions. He left school at 16 Calculations are made of the amounts of direct and diffuse managing director of Bluesky International. “The intelligence we can derive and went on to study for a degree in quantity surveying solar radiation falling annually on all surfaces, taking account of from a thermal image can help target this money, highlighting at a glance via day release, and later gained a master’s degree in overshadowing by neighbouring buildings and trees. From these figures, properties that would benefit from additional insulation and double glazing.” construction law and dispute resolution. the solar energy potential is estimated, allowing for the slopes of roofs and for different solar technologies. A minimum threshold is set, below A specialist in aerial surveys, Bluesky has already produced thermal maps which installations are likely to be uneconomic. The character of land for a number of towns and cities across the UK, covering a significant Government Launches £2 million surfaces and their suitability for solar are represented in the map: some percentage of the population. Working with property owners, local Transport Location Data areas such as roads, woodlands and royal parks are excluded. The map authorities and energy companies, the colour-coded thermal maps, Competition is linked to the London Building Stock Model, which makes it possible combined with other types of geographic data such as a local authority The Geospatial Commission has partnered with to know the uses and potential energy reductions if solar panels were address database, are used to give accurate and up-to-date information Innovate UK to create a £2 million transport location installed. to tackle fuel poverty, manage carbon emissions and improve energy data competition to support the future of mobility for efficiency. The heat loss data maps have also been used to identify illegal the UK. Besides policymaking by the GLA, the map is intended for use by dwellings – known as beds in sheds, and even uncover cannabis factories. householders, building owners, solar installers and investors in solar The Geospatial Commission has partnered with power. Data are included in the map on some 100MW of existing solar Thermal surveys Innovate UK to create a new £2 million competition installations. Early analysis of the map shows that around a quarter of Thermal surveys are flown in the winter months, during the evening and which will look at how location data can spark the Mayor’s 2GW target could be met with PV on the roofs of 4,000 after sunset, in order to capture the widest variations in temperature that innovation and support the future of mobility for the large warehouses. Alternatively, the entire 2GW could be achieved with can occur as a result of poor insulation or excessive energy consumption. United Kingdom. installations on a third of a million houses, the majority of them built The data can be produced ready for use in a Geographical Information before 1939. System (GIS) or Bluesky can produce a list of properties with high heat loss Smarter mobility solutions, underpinned by location values. data, will enable us to make the most of our The members of the team responsible for the map are Stephen Evans, transport networks by boosting capacity, reducing Ivan Korolija, Dominic Humphrey, Gareth Simons, Paul Ruyssevelt and Undertaken using a ‘microbolometer’ thermal camera, specifically designed environmental impacts and decreasing travel times. Philip Steadman. for airborne surveying, and ideal for use in aircraft flying at night allows for This competition aims to stimulate commercial measurements of heat loss from property roofs to be recorded with higher innovation to help create geospatial solutions to precision and more consistent results than other systems currently in use in our transport challenges and support the future of the UK. mobility.

This competition follows the publication in June of the UK Geospatial Strategy, Unlocking the power of location. Under the strategy the Geospatial Commission will maximise the commercial opportunities for innovation and promote market- wide adoption of high value emerging location technologies.

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06-07-08-09-10-11_headlines.indd 10 02-12-20 16:39 HEADLINES HEADLINES

Thermal Mapping Helps Target UK Government Green Home Grants Using a high-tech thermal imaging camera to measure heat loss from roofs, aerial mapping company Bluesky International is helping to identify poorly insulated homes and other public buildings.

The property level heat loss maps provide an accurate and up-to-date picture that could be used to pinpoint homes eligible for financial support such as the UK Government’s Green Homes Grants.

The UK Government recently announced a package of grants worth a total £2 billion for energy-efficient home improvements, including installing insulation, double glazing and replacing old boilers. The remaining £1 billion of the package will be spent making public buildings, including schools and hospitals, more environmentally friendly, with £50 million going towards retrofitting social housing with insulation, double glazing and heat pumps.

Geospatial colour-coded maps “The government announcement of support for homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes as part of a wider green jobs package brings thermal surveys to the forefront,” commented Rachel Tidmarsh, Your Product Platform managing director of Bluesky International. “The intelligence we can derive from a thermal image can help target this money, highlighting at a glance for Surveying, Positioning properties that would benefit from additional insulation and double glazing.” and Machine Guidance A specialist in aerial surveys, Bluesky has already produced thermal maps for a number of towns and cities across the UK, covering a significant percentage of the population. Working with property owners, local authorities and energy companies, the colour-coded thermal maps, combined with other types of geographic data such as a local authority address database, are used to give accurate and up-to-date information to tackle fuel poverty, manage carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. The heat loss data maps have also been used to identify illegal dwellings – known as beds in sheds, and even uncover cannabis factories.

Thermal surveys Thermal surveys are flown in the winter months, during the evening and after sunset, in order to capture the widest variations in temperature that can occur as a result of poor insulation or excessive energy consumption. The data can be produced ready for use in a Geographical Information System (GIS) or Bluesky can produce a list of properties with high heat loss values.

Undertaken using a ‘microbolometer’ thermal camera, specifically designed for airborne surveying, and ideal for use in aircraft flying at night allows for measurements of heat loss from property roofs to be recorded with higher precision and more consistent results than other systems currently in use in Search and compare the UK. Get insights

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Winter 2020 11

06-07-08-09-10-11_headlines.indd 11 02-12-20 16:39 POLICY WATCH by JAMES KAVANAGH Policy watch

RICS News and a Farewell to GW

2020 – the year that just doesn’t a geospatial professional. ESG (Environmental, Social data/harnessing-data/all-mapped-out.html) stop giving and I know that Governance) disclosure and reporting frameworks are Gordon Johnston mentions the RICS evening lecture many of us wish it would hurry the thing to watch for 2021, as investment funds and series in his column and I’m delighted to add that up and finish. Difficult days and corporations move towards a more, at least publicly, this year’s Christmas lecture will be held (virtually) sour times for many, but we active stance on sustainability. Geospatial data has a on Thursday, 17 December – Julia Stolle FRICS will do seem to be turning towards really significant role to play in ESG development. The speak on the new 4th edition Boundaries Guidance something a bit brighter as World Economic Forum (WEF) has recently released an Note (GN) and the role of a surveyor in a mediated the dim, wintry light of 2021 important output on ESG connectivity with Sustainable boundary dispute. More details at https://www.rics. becomes visible on the horizon, Development Goals (SDGs). org/uk/events/conferences-seminars/boundaries-land- regime change occurs across christmas-lecture/. Free and open to all. the pond and a Covid-19 vaccine RICS NEWS gives hope, at last. That term geospatial, its growing use and acceptance, RICS has been supporting members, and staff, during James Kavanagh, Director of the RICS brings me to the end of Geomatics World. Geomatics, this new lockdown period (UK) in numerous ways. We Land Group. During these crises - Covid-19, unloved by many, hasn’t really worked for us as made all of our conferences, CPD, webinars and online political and climate - the geospatial a profession title. The adoption of the term was training free to access and use for all RICS members. profession has become even more of a vital part of controversial (see Brian Coutts’s article, Geomatics Some of the geospatial related highlights can be the global, and national, strategic fightback. I won’t World November/December 2017) and perhaps it is sourced at https://www.rics.org/uk/wbef/webinars/ go into specific details; more can be gleaned from best to see it as a traverse station (with a very large and https://www.rics.org/uk/news-insight/latest-news/ the constantly updated URLs below. But have you all error ellipse!) on the survey loop towards an evolving value-the-planet/ noticed how adept organisations, agencies and news geospatial profession. channels have become at explaining highly complex RICS has also reviewed and updated our Covid-19 issues using geospatial data and imagery? The general As mentioned, this is the final hard copy of GW. GW, information COVID-19 webpages, along with a public do seem to have much more of a grip on the and its forebear Surveying World (including the 1990s Covid-19 guide for those members working in the geospatial implications of ‘track and trace’, and those RICS divisional journal for land and minerals surveying), boundaries and neighbour disputes sectors https:// of you on social media can experience a constant has been going for nearly 30 years and there have been www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/news/ stream of geospatial related news and content. See some wonderful highlights. I wrote my first column for covid19/covid-19-guide--rics-recommendations-on- Ordnance Survey, Geospatial Commission and GW (or SW as it was then) in 2000; selective availability inspections-and-visits-for-neighbour-disputes.pdf Geospatial World. (SA) was just being turned off by the US on GPS signals, triggering a revolution in positioning and If there is an issue we have not addressed in our If anything, 2020 has accelerated the often disparate related geodetic applications – we’ve come a very long guidance, please let us know by emailing covid19@rics. sectors within Geospatial (a broad church of GIS, way. org land survey, cartography, imagery, data capture, engineering survey etc etc) to become much more All RICS output is now digital and our RICS journals (in Lionheart, an independent charity for RICS closely aligned into a Geospatial Profession. From an the case of Modus and Land Journal) have moved to professionals can offer free and confidential advice, RICS perspective, this has seen us working much a new online platform. The website www.geomatics- financial support, professional counselling and legal more closely with our colleagues on the Survey Liaison world.co.uk will migrate along with the GW archive to advice. Group and within the Geospatial Commission. Globally, the main GIM geospatial journal website www.gim- our links and collaboration with FIG, CLGE and the international.com effectively bringing GW content to Member feedback and dialogue seems to suggest that various international standards coalitions (www.ilmsc. a new global audience. The hard copy catalogue will the Geospatial profession is in rude health and actively org) underline the international unique selling point of remain in the RICS library. This has not been an easy recruiting. Indeed, we have noted an upsurge in APC/ our profession. decision for GW and RICS, but it is one which will allow AssocRICS applications in geospatial and also in the us to evolve into a more digitally orientated resource and much broader Land & Resources pathway; assessors Other big issue terms such as Geo-ethics (Benchmark to provide resources for members within the corporate and interviewers are always welcome. initiative – https://benchmarkinitiative.com/ ), environment of RICS, whilst maintaining the global geospatial economics (Spatial Finance Initiative – geospatial communications channel of GIM journal. I’m The post PG2020 Sector Advisory Forums (SAFs) https://spatialfinanceinitiative.com/ ), climate change sure that various columns will be maintained in some are being formed; the Land & Resources SAF had its monitoring, biodiversity net gain, natural capital and form and many of you will have noted a recent upsurge initial meeting in early November 2020. We expect carbon mitigation evaluation, engineering and AR tech in geospatial content with RICS Journals (Modus – Geospatial Surveying to form an Expert Working Group and many more, make this a very exciting time to be https://ww3.rics.org/uk/en/modus/technology-and- in early 2021.

12 Winter 2020

12-13-14_policywatch.indd 12 02-12-20 16:48 POLICY WATCH by JAMES KAVANAGH Policy watch

RICS News and a Farewell to GW

a geospatial professional. ESG (Environmental, Social data/harnessing-data/all-mapped-out.html) GUIDANCE Governance) disclosure and reporting frameworks are Gordon Johnston mentions the RICS evening lecture Boundaries 4th edition GN will have finished its the thing to watch for 2021, as investment funds and series in his column and I’m delighted to add that consultation period by the time you receive GW and we corporations move towards a more, at least publicly, this year’s Christmas lecture will be held (virtually) expect to launch at the 17 December evening lecture. active stance on sustainability. Geospatial data has a on Thursday, 17 December – Julia Stolle FRICS will The new GN is a full root and branch upgrade and really significant role to play in ESG development. The speak on the new 4th edition Boundaries Guidance encompasses all that was best from the seminal 3rd World Economic Forum (WEF) has recently released an Note (GN) and the role of a surveyor in a mediated edition. It features an emphasis on mediation and has important output on ESG connectivity with Sustainable boundary dispute. More details at https://www.rics. been reformatted and edited to include several new Development Goals (SDGs). org/uk/events/conferences-seminars/boundaries-land- and expanded sections: christmas-lecture/. Free and open to all. RICS NEWS • Key definitions are included in the front of the GN (as That term geospatial, its growing use and acceptance, RICS has been supporting members, and staff, during well as in an expanded glossary). brings me to the end of Geomatics World. Geomatics, this new lockdown period (UK) in numerous ways. We • Conduct (RICS Rules of Conduct) and unloved by many, hasn’t really worked for us as made all of our conferences, CPD, webinars and online professionalism is underlined and emphasized in a a profession title. The adoption of the term was training free to access and use for all RICS members. new section. controversial (see Brian Coutts’s article, Geomatics Some of the geospatial related highlights can be • A completely revised ‘setting up the project’ section World November/December 2017) and perhaps it is sourced at https://www.rics.org/uk/wbef/webinars/ focuses on the anticipated role of the expert in the best to see it as a traverse station (with a very large and https://www.rics.org/uk/news-insight/latest-news/ process. error ellipse!) on the survey loop towards an evolving value-the-planet/ • Expanded and updated ‘research’ and ‘site visit/ geospatial profession. measured survey’ sections – with a completely new RICS has also reviewed and updated our Covid-19 ‘features on the ground’ sub section. As mentioned, this is the final hard copy of GW. GW, information COVID-19 webpages, along with a • Updated sections on Litigation, Alternative Dispute and its forebear Surveying World (including the 1990s Covid-19 guide for those members working in the Resolution (ADR) and recording the outcome with RICS divisional journal for land and minerals surveying), boundaries and neighbour disputes sectors https:// HM Land Registry. has been going for nearly 30 years and there have been www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/news/ • Extensive supporting appendixes on mediation some wonderful highlights. I wrote my first column for covid19/covid-19-guide--rics-recommendations-on- processes, model terms of reference, entering GW (or SW as it was then) in 2000; selective availability inspections-and-visits-for-neighbour-disputes.pdf neighbouring land advice and highways agency (SA) was just being turned off by the US on GPS advice. signals, triggering a revolution in positioning and If there is an issue we have not addressed in our • A customized survey accuracy table and a new data related geodetic applications – we’ve come a very long guidance, please let us know by emailing covid19@rics. provenance table. way. org RICS Dispute Resolution Service (DRS) and Property All RICS output is now digital and our RICS journals (in Lionheart, an independent charity for RICS Litigation Association (with the support of the Civil the case of Modus and Land Journal) have moved to professionals can offer free and confidential advice, Justice Council) have just launched a new Boundary a new online platform. The website www.geomatics- financial support, professional counselling and legal Disputes Mediation Service https://www.rics.org/uk/ world.co.uk will migrate along with the GW archive to advice. products/dispute-resolution-service/drs-services/ the main GIM geospatial journal website www.gim- boundary-disputes-mediation-service/ . We expect the international.com effectively bringing GW content to Member feedback and dialogue seems to suggest that new 4th edition to form a primary part of the framework a new global audience. The hard copy catalogue will the Geospatial profession is in rude health and actively for best practice in this joint service. remain in the RICS library. This has not been an easy recruiting. Indeed, we have noted an upsurge in APC/ decision for GW and RICS, but it is one which will allow AssocRICS applications in geospatial and also in the Imagery 6th edition GN should be in consultation in Dec us to evolve into a more digitally orientated resource and much broader Land & Resources pathway; assessors 2020. This new edition is, again, a completely updated to provide resources for members within the corporate and interviewers are always welcome. and reformatted edition. We have collaborated with environment of RICS, whilst maintaining the global our colleagues on the SLG, RSPsoc, ARPAS (UAVs) geospatial communications channel of GIM journal. I’m The post PG2020 Sector Advisory Forums (SAFs) and other imagery industry experts for a wide-ranging sure that various columns will be maintained in some are being formed; the Land & Resources SAF had its expert working group process. The 2010 Vertical aerial form and many of you will have noted a recent upsurge initial meeting in early November 2020. We expect photography and digital imagery 5th edition GN is used in geospatial content with RICS Journals (Modus – Geospatial Surveying to form an Expert Working Group heavily in aerial imagery procurement procedures and https://ww3.rics.org/uk/en/modus/technology-and- in early 2021. the new 2020 has extended its remit into UAV imagery

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and sensors, restated ‘traditional’ aerial imagery best • Agriculture Bill 2020 https://www.gov.uk/ practice and included information on the use of EO government/news/agriculture-bill-to-boost- (earth observation) imagery and data. We expect the environment-and-food-production – as above. new GN to be launched in spring 2021, well in time for GeoBusiness 2021 https://www.geobusinessshow. HM LAND REGISTRY com/ The HM Government emphasis on planning, housing and development for the post Covid-19 and Brexit economic recovery has at its heart the establishment of a digital and data driven restructure of processes and procedures. HM Land Registry has been at the forefront of recent developments and has been commissioned by the Geospatial Commission to undertake a project to explore the potential of a new POLICY transactional, multi-source data service, and the The Geospatial Commission has been busy launching impact it could have on housing, land, and property the ‘Unlocking the power of location: The UK’s related processes. A review of several recent HM Land Geospatial Strategy’ (June 2020) - https://www.gov. Registry initiatives: uk/government/publications/unlocking-the-power- of-locationthe-uks-geospatial-strategy, moving • E-signatures https://hmlandregistry.blog. forward on understanding the skills challenges facing gov.uk/2020/07/09/electronic-signatures-in- the geospatial profession and also becoming more conveyancing/. inﬂ uential on a number of key policy fronts. • Registered Leases and Restrictive Covenants datasets https://www.gov.uk/government/news/hm- RICS responded to a number of policy consultations land-registry-backs-innovation-and-transparency- during Autumn 2020; the HM Government National with-new-data-releases. Data Strategy was a bit of a beast of a document but • HMLR and RoS release ‘Inspire’ land ownership still worth responding to. We also responded to the polygon data https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ inspire-data-to-be-shared-under-open-terms. • Planning for the future white paper -https://www.gov. uk/government/publications/planning-for-the-future With OS also adding to the open data mix with their – this was a full spectrum RICS response, but we new https://osdatahub.os.uk/ the UK is really looking to made sure to emphasize the role of geospatial data geospatial data to help rebuild its economy. in the proposed digitally driven planning system of the future. As mentioned, I want to underline that RICS is here for its members during these crises; we have opened • Environment Bill 2020 https://www.gov.uk/ new ‘yammer’ based digital communities for members government/publications/environment-bill-2020/30- and I’ll be in contact. Do make sure your RICS contact january-2020-environment-bill-2020-policy-statement details are up to date. – the new biodiversity net gain and environmental land management aspects of the post Common It’s been a pleasure and an honour to write this column Agricultural Payments (CAP) will bring enormous for GW, signing off for now. change to land management in the UK. Geospatial data will be at the heart of the new payments and If you have any comments, do contact me at monitoring scheme(s). [email protected]

14 Winter 2020

12-13-14_policywatch.indd 14 02-12-20 16:48 by GORDON JOHNSTON LAND AND RESOURCES BOARD

Plus ça Change

We live in challenging and ever-changing times, The closing date for the UK National plus ça change. For many of us the impact of the Data Strategy is 2 December, so pandemic will be significant and create a lasting you need to be quick to get your effect. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought the thoughts in. See https://www. concept of data and, in particular, geospatial data gov.uk/government/consultations/ into the mainstream. Through GIS we have been uk-national-data-strategy-nds- able to track and appreciate some of the trends consultation/uk-national-data- of the pandemic. In early November, we also got strategy-consultation a relatively clear impression of how the voting in the US election played out through the use The IOGP Geomatics Committee of maps to show the electoral votes per state. has a new Task Force to look at Behind these maps and GIS dashboards, there software that uses geospatial is a tremendous amount of data that has had data. The GIGS, or the geospatial Gordon Johnston, Chair of the RICS to be collected, managed, and made available. integrity of geoscience software, Geomatics Professional Group. Gordon In general therefore I believe the future of the Task Force is working to ensure that welcomes your comments and thoughts geospatial profession is strong and very much digital applications can consume so please email to the following address one that will be part of any recovery. I’d like to data correctly with minimal user [email protected] think that one aspect of the surveying profession intervention and that we can trust and that will continue is the strength of the personal verify the integrity of the underlying networks, bonds and friendships that develop calculations and operations. See also through work. Personal relationships may not https://www.iogp.org/blog/geomatics/trust-but-verify- feature high on the job description or in career new-geomatics-task-force-puts-geospatial-integrity-on- guides, but in these times, they can be really the-digitalisation-map/ important. In the digital virtual world it may be a challenge to develop these. In relation to the UK’s Geospatial Commission, its strategy 2020-2025 “Unlocking the Power of Location” MOVING TO DIGITAL was published in June and offers a chance to comment Building networks may take a different approach, but and provide expert insight before the next phase. it’s heartening to see the engagement of members Current topics such as the National Underground Asset on the digital platforms for meetings, seminars and Register (NUAR) project, a skills analysis review, and workshops. I suspect quite a number of those online opportunities for involvement through Geovation, albeit are attending when they would probably not have been using virtual digital methods, all bode well for the future. able to be present physically. Looking forward, the https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/ traditional RICS Geomatics lecture series will transfer uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/894755/ to a digital and virtual platform and I encourage you all, Geospatial_Strategy.pdf when the announcements and invites are published, to sign up and get engaged in what promises to be an Traditionally, each year in October, many of us would be interesting array of topics and speakers. attending the biggest show in Geomatics: INTERGEO. Sadly, as with almost every other event, it has had More and more activities are to be found exclusively to be cancelled and replaced with a digitally-based online and in a virtual or digital form and here in the UK virtual version. The InterGEO conference with themes there are a number of important publications that have covering Smart Cities, BIM and trends in Surveying was been opened for consultation and comment. These as strong as ever. types of initiatives are almost all now handled and managed in an online environment so if you are SKILLS not signed up, logged in, or a member, then the Trailblazer apprenticeships have been operating chances are you will be missing out on opportunities to since 2018 and have developed some traction but influence how the geospatial profession develops in the are not yet, at least in my view, a roaring success. future. In general, the Trailblazer has suffered from some

Winter 2020 15

15-16-17_geomaticschair.indd 15 02-12-20 16:40 LAND AND RESOURCES BOARD LAND AND RESOURCES BOARD

government rules and limits on how it is funded, but to have personnel deployed could be advantageous. project has competent personnel involved. The costs it does offer an opportunity for those interested in the The introduction of digital sensors, global positioning of undertaking work offshore are still significant and the geospatial profession, either at Level 3 or at Level 6, and satellite-based telecommunications have all associated risks can still develop, in spite of plans to to gain a qualification that supports their career and contributed to and facilitated the development of mitigate them. Some regions there have certification offers the opportunity to become a member of one remotely monitored and autonomous operations. This requirements and require the surveyor to maintain a of the professional institutions. I believe there are is now regularly being adopted for various surveys, logbook. In this way, a potential client can have some a number of reasons why it has been hard for the some of which still carry a marine crew and have assurance that there are qualified and competent very dedicated people involved in developing and scientific survey personnel on board, others that rely personnel on the project. In the UK, the Hydrographic promoting these courses to attract more apprentices upon automated and robotic craft, either on the sea Society has commenced the development of an onto various courses. There is a lack of funding for surface or submerged at depth. Autonomous and Accreditation Scheme to enable surveyors to gain travel which is important as many potential students remotely controlled craft are now being developed acceptance at a certain level of competence. It will would be required to either travel long distances (in to work not only alone or in support of a mother be really interesting to see how this will influence and comparison to their work) or even stay overnight. Not ship, but also to be deployed as a fleet of (relatively) impact on our profession. ideal for the one day a week “day release” scheduling. small vessels, each fitted with sensor packages, that The geospatial apprenticeship has not attracted any provide a force multiplier. We already have virtual SPACE specific reviews on the apprenticeship review site ( vessel management that relies on digital streaming Talking of technologies, it’s come to my notice that https://www.ratemyapprenticeship.co.uk/ ) which of views to provide the spatial context in and around the various satellite-based positioning systems all is disappointing and perhaps indicates that there is various ports. It is therefore only a matter of time before updated their constellations this year with GPS setting more to do to promote these relatively new courses. automated survey operations are developed to be SVN 75 operational, China’s BeiDou launching its A further challenge for geospatial is what I consider more commonplace and accepted as the default. I for as a disjoint between the general secondary schools’ one believe a discussion around standards in relation curriculum that is perhaps not geared or connected to this type of operation and the transfer of geospatial into applied apprenticeships like geospatial. In relation data is overdue. Until some standardization comes to that point, we need to ensure that the teachers and into being, there will be inefficiencies and limits to the the schools’ careers advisors are aware and appreciate integration of such systems. Remote surveying will what geospatial has to offer. It’s a work in progress potentially still offer a much more cost-effective option and with the Geospatial Commission looking at the for surveying, meet the aims of the Net Zero Emissions skills required for the future it does need some clear and of course it will change the skills portfolio required thinking, innovative plans and a committed environment for offshore and hydrographic surveying. In 1975, it to develop and implement a sustainable set of paths for was estimated that in the North Sea alone there were the geospatial profession. over 400 surveyors and engineers engaged exclusively on survey work for the oil and gas industry. How times Members of the RICS as representatives of the have changed. profession are active, vocal and aiming to ensure that the voice of surveyors is heard. There is an opportunity Just as land surveying technologies and skills have to influence and direct the strategy. Again this is a evolved with automated digital sensors, integrated digital effort. units, greater data capture and coloured rendition in some virtual form, so too has the hydrographic REMOTE surveyor had the benefit of new technologies. Prior Remote - no, not the device to control the daytime to the 60s, almost all hydrographic surveying was to television during the Covid-19 crisis, but the trend support transportation of goods and maintain safe to develop operational capability that supports passage for commercial trading vessels and navies. governments’ aims to create net zero fuel emissions That changed with the advent of offshore oil and gas for marine services and, in this context, offshore and exploration. The new digital systems and, in particular, hydrographic survey services. There are already clear the availability of telecommunications from ship, vessel, opportunities to adopt technologies that support this or some other platform, to shore, are supporting strategy. The ocean is a big place; it is not well covered remote surveys and this presents some challenges by surveys and weather and conditions can often be for both the surveyor and the client in determining hazardous, so any technology that removes the need what skills are necessary and how to ensure that the Remote: A glider in the Antarctic. (Image courtesy: David White)

16 Winter 2020

15-16-17_geomaticschair.indd 16 02-12-20 16:40 LAND AND RESOURCES BOARD LAND AND RESOURCES BOARD

to have personnel deployed could be advantageous. project has competent personnel involved. The costs 54th satellite and GLONASS adding a further satellite The introduction of digital sensors, global positioning of undertaking work offshore are still significant and the to its constellation. It really is now a utility and so also and satellite-based telecommunications have all associated risks can still develop, in spite of plans to strategic. The pressure on the radio frequencies has contributed to and facilitated the development of mitigate them. Some regions there have certification never been greater, so it will be interesting to see what remotely monitored and autonomous operations. This requirements and require the surveyor to maintain a path the UK adopts since its June 2020 investment in is now regularly being adopted for various surveys, logbook. In this way, a potential client can have some OneWeb. some of which still carry a marine crew and have assurance that there are qualified and competent scientific survey personnel on board, others that rely personnel on the project. In the UK, the Hydrographic AND FINALLY…. upon automated and robotic craft, either on the sea Society has commenced the development of an I’ve been very fortunate and privileged to have been surface or submerged at depth. Autonomous and Accreditation Scheme to enable surveyors to gain able to contribute to Geomatics World over the last remotely controlled craft are now being developed acceptance at a certain level of competence. It will few years and I sincerely hope that you will all be able to work not only alone or in support of a mother be really interesting to see how this will influence and to benefit from the future digital articles and blogs that ship, but also to be deployed as a fleet of (relatively) impact on our profession. will continue going forward. After over a quarter of a small vessels, each fitted with sensor packages, that century, it will be odd to not receive a GW through provide a force multiplier. We already have virtual SPACE the letter post. I don’t have one of the first volumes vessel management that relies on digital streaming Talking of technologies, it’s come to my notice that published but I did find some extracts from an earlier of views to provide the spatial context in and around the various satellite-based positioning systems all publication simply called “Chartered Surveyor”. The various ports. It is therefore only a matter of time before updated their constellations this year with GPS setting articles related to technology, boundaries, an apparent automated survey operations are developed to be SVN 75 operational, China’s BeiDou launching its skills gap and the use of satellites. Plus ca change! more commonplace and accepted as the default. I for one believe a discussion around standards in relation to this type of operation and the transfer of geospatial data is overdue. Until some standardization comes into being, there will be inefficiencies and limits to the integration of such systems. Remote surveying will potentially still offer a much more cost-effective option for surveying, meet the aims of the Net Zero Emissions and of course it will change the skills portfolio required for offshore and hydrographic surveying. In 1975, it was estimated that in the North Sea alone there were over 400 surveyors and engineers engaged exclusively on survey work for the oil and gas industry. How times have changed.

Just as land surveying technologies and skills have evolved with automated digital sensors, integrated units, greater data capture and coloured rendition in some virtual form, so too has the hydrographic surveyor had the benefit of new technologies. Prior to the 60s, almost all hydrographic surveying was to support transportation of goods and maintain safe passage for commercial trading vessels and navies. That changed with the advent of offshore oil and gas exploration. The new digital systems and, in particular, the availability of telecommunications from ship, vessel, or some other platform, to shore, are supporting remote surveys and this presents some challenges for both the surveyor and the client in determining what skills are necessary and how to ensure that the Remote: A glider in the Antarctic. (Image courtesy: David White)

Winter 2020 17

15-16-17_geomaticschair.indd 17 02-12-20 16:40 UNDERCURRENTS by MALCOLM DRAPER WITH STEPHEN BOOTH UNDERCURRENTS

So Farewell and Thanks to All Two events we covered in May/June 2015 were a visit to the British Library to view the Magna Carta exhibition. As we commented, “Its influence flows through 800 years of history, through the Civil War, the American Declaration of Independence, the Chartists, the Suffragettes and even inspired the drafters of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.” As this is the last printed witticisms that guided his business life. Like my Undercurrents you will see, dad’s six P’s: proper preparation prevents piss-pour We mustn’t forget the GEO events run by PV we look back at some past performance! My American friend added to the list with, Publications. The 2013 was especially memorable issues. It’s been nearly 25 “I tell ‘em what I’m gonna tell ‘em, then I tell ’em, then I as it was the setting for a grand reunion of former years since GW former editor tell’em what I told ‘em!”. employees of JA Story & Partners, the “Jasbeens”. Stephen Booth took over the joint writing of the column from We’ve enjoyed seminars like that at the Royal Over the years, we have helped answer many questions Peter Gilbert, Surveying World’s Geographical Society (RGS) two years ago given by for readers. In Nov/Dec 2015, we recorded how many first editor, with Malcolm Alastair Macdonald. He was the author of “Mapping miles in the coastline of Great Britain? 19,491 according Draper. the World”, a book about his time working for the to Ordnance Survey (note that excludes Northern Directorate of Overseas Surveys (DOS) after the Ireland). Last year, before the era of Covid-19, we asked We’ve literally travelled the world Second World War. Bilby Towers, CTS theodolites and readers for poetry involving surveying. Dr Arthur Allan for copy for this column. We’ve Tellurometers were the technology back then. came up trumps with this ditty, the author of which was Malcolm Draper visited the National Archives at Kew, Martin Hotine, head of DOS: Owner of Rentalengt The Science Museum at South As readers will know, we’ve tirelessly plugged the Royal Kensington, The Military Intelligence Geographical Society’s lectures, many of which remain When the last observation is taken, Museum at Chicksands, Bletchley memorable. The most impressive were those told And the theodolite stowed in its box, Park, The Royal Society and many more. by travellers who went on foot. They told great tales And the surveyor’s coffined up also, from their explorations like Bear Grylls and Levison And his soul at St Peter’s gate knocks, We’ve enjoyed reporting from exhibitions, conferences Wood. Then this surveyor, not understanding, and seminars. Perhaps one of the best was FIG That of all earthly troubles he’s rid, in Washington DC in 2002. The country was still Exhibitions we have enjoyed and encouraged readers Says to Peter, “Come over and tell me, coming to grips with 9/11 (everywhere signs flashed to visit include “Sunken cities – Egypt’s lost worlds” at What projection you use and what grid? “Stay alert!”). The cream was not so much FIG but a the British Museum. At London’s Science Museum, And Peter will answer benignly, concurrent Little Richard concert, to which five of us “Fox Talbot: the dawn of the photograph”. The Design “There’s no need to fuss about that, Brits blagged our way in. The guy had lost none of Museum’s “Ferrari Under the Skin”. A stand-out was Projections and grids don’t concern us, his trademark, “Le whap boppa looma, le whap bam the British Library’s Cook’s Voyages, celebrating Ain’t you ‘eard, this is Heaven – it’s flat!” boom”. I still have the sequin that fell from the great James Cook’s three voyages in the 18th century to the man’s outfit. Southern Ocean. A talented surveyor and cartographer, MISCELLANY Cook took with him to assist navigation a copy of This section of our column has contained many FIG in Munich in October 2006. Although the opening Harrison’s H4 Chronometer; and took home Ormai, an witticisms, bon mots, jokes or wordplay. Let’s recall ceremony (always a chance for local organisers to islander from Huahine (celebrated in Joshua Reynold’s a few, but first a very recent one from north of the shine) was a tad dour, it was nevertheless all about famous painting) to meet the King and receive the border. A newspaper headline we liked for its focus on meeting surveyors from around the world and they gift of a suit of armour! The exhibition coincided with the important outcome of the US presidential election: all seemed to be having the same problems! I was another on Oceania at the Royal Academy showing “South Ayr golf course owner loses election”. chatting to an American surveyor, who runs a private stick charts and other navigation aids from the And in memory of Donald Trump: The Chinese built a firm, and I asked him if he had any little sayings or Pacific islands. Meanwhile, the RGS heard a lecture border wall 2000 years ago and they still don’t have on Hunting for the Southern Continent by Alasdair any Mexicans. MacLeod which included a private view of the Society’s Staying with headlines running unchecked, we were collection of Cook memorabilia, like his cooking pots! intrigued by “Panda mating fails; veterinarian takes over”. In October 2016, we headed off to Belgium, the guests Undercurrents has always been a signed-up of Professor Jan De Graeve, to view my collection “lexophilist” (the joy of word play). Here’s a few from the of old electronic instruments and calculators in the archives beginning with a personal favourite. “Pushing the Boundaries” exhibition; now all safely housed at the University of Ghent. Whilst there, we • Police were summoned to a day care centre where a visited the best car museum in Europe, Autoworld in three-year old was resisting a rest. Brussels. It was a fantastic day out. Don’t miss it if • A dentist and a manicurist married: they fought tooth you’re ever in Belgium; it’s not just for petrol-heads! and nail.

18 Winter 2020

18-19_undercurrents.indd 18 03-12-20 11:30 UNDERCURRENTS by MALCOLM DRAPER WITH STEPHEN BOOTH UNDERCURRENTS

So Farewell and Thanks to All Two events we covered in May/June 2015 were a • A woman who fell into an upholstery machine is now visit to the British Library to view the Magna Carta fully recovered. exhibition. As we commented, “Its influence flows • If people from Poland are called Poles, why aren’t through 800 years of history, through the Civil War, the people from Holland called Holes? American Declaration of Independence, the Chartists, • And on a safari park’s sign: “Elephants, please stay in the Suffragettes and even inspired the drafters of the your car”. Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.” witticisms that guided his business life. Like my Employee evaluations have also been a rich source for dad’s six P’s: proper preparation prevents piss-pour We mustn’t forget the GEO events run by PV Undercurrents: performance! My American friend added to the list with, Publications. The 2013 was especially memorable • He has reached rock bottom and has started to dig. “I tell ‘em what I’m gonna tell ‘em, then I tell ’em, then I as it was the setting for a grand reunion of former • A gross ignoramus – 144 times worse than an tell’em what I told ‘em!”. employees of JA Story & Partners, the “Jasbeens”. ordinary ignoramus. • He’s got a full six-pack but lacks the thing that holds We’ve enjoyed seminars like that at the Royal Over the years, we have helped answer many questions it together. Geographical Society (RGS) two years ago given by for readers. In Nov/Dec 2015, we recorded how many Alastair Macdonald. He was the author of “Mapping miles in the coastline of Great Britain? 19,491 according uc NOBEL AWARDS the World”, a book about his time working for the to Ordnance Survey (note that excludes Northern The Ig Nobel Awards for 2020 happened entirely online Directorate of Overseas Surveys (DOS) after the Ireland). Last year, before the era of Covid-19, we asked this year. The awards go to some of the world’s most Second World War. Bilby Towers, CTS theodolites and readers for poetry involving surveying. Dr Arthur Allan pointless academic research studies. Past years have Tellurometers were the technology back then. came up trumps with this ditty, the author of which was found that a fly in a glass of wine can be detected by Martin Hotine, head of DOS: smell, and that taking a roller coaster ride can shift a As readers will know, we’ve tirelessly plugged the Royal kidney stone. We have also seen the invention of a Geographical Society’s lectures, many of which remain When the last observation is taken, self-colonoscopy device. This year’s crop included the memorable. The most impressive were those told And the theodolite stowed in its box, Acoustics Prize, which went to an international team by travellers who went on foot. They told great tales And the surveyor’s coffined up also, for inducing a female Chinese alligator to bellow in an from their explorations like Bear Grylls and Levison And his soul at St Peter’s gate knocks, airtight chamber filled with helium-enriched air. Wood. Then this surveyor, not understanding, That of all earthly troubles he’s rid, The Psychology Prize went to Miranda Giacomin Exhibitions we have enjoyed and encouraged readers Says to Peter, “Come over and tell me, and Nicholas Rule for devising a method to identify to visit include “Sunken cities – Egypt’s lost worlds” at What projection you use and what grid? narcissists by examining their eyebrows. And our the British Museum. At London’s Science Museum, And Peter will answer benignly, favourite, the Economics Prize, went to an international “Fox Talbot: the dawn of the photograph”. The Design “There’s no need to fuss about that, team for trying to quantify the relationship between Museum’s “Ferrari Under the Skin”. A stand-out was Projections and grids don’t concern us, different countries’ national income inequality and the the British Library’s Cook’s Voyages, celebrating Ain’t you ‘eard, this is Heaven – it’s flat!” average amount of mouth-to-mouth kissing. James Cook’s three voyages in the 18th century to the If you want to see them all go to https://www. Southern Ocean. A talented surveyor and cartographer, MISCELLANY improbable.com/ig-about/winners/ Cook took with him to assist navigation a copy of This section of our column has contained many Harrison’s H4 Chronometer; and took home Ormai, an witticisms, bon mots, jokes or wordplay. Let’s recall ADIEU, UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN islander from Huahine (celebrated in Joshua Reynold’s a few, but first a very recent one from north of the We hope you’ve enjoyed this column down the years. famous painting) to meet the King and receive the border. A newspaper headline we liked for its focus on Let’s sign off with a little beaut’ we picked up via the gift of a suit of armour! The exhibition coincided with the important outcome of the US presidential election: web: another on Oceania at the Royal Academy showing “South Ayr golf course owner loses election”. • Q. My child will not eat fish, stick charts and other navigation aids from the And in memory of Donald Trump: The Chinese built a what can I replace it with? Pacific islands. Meanwhile, the RGS heard a lecture border wall 2000 years ago and they still don’t have A. A cat. Cats love fish. on Hunting for the Southern Continent by Alasdair any Mexicans. MacLeod which included a private view of the Society’s Staying with headlines running unchecked, we were A big thank you to all our many fans, far and wide, over collection of Cook memorabilia, like his cooking pots! intrigued by “Panda mating fails; the years. Farewell for now. And in the words of the veterinarian takes over”. great Irish comedian, Dave Allen, ‘May your god go In October 2016, we headed off to Belgium, the guests Undercurrents has always been a signed-up with you’. of Professor Jan De Graeve, to view my collection “lexophilist” (the joy of word play). Here’s a few from the of old electronic instruments and calculators in the archives beginning with a personal favourite. Undercurrents is a joint column by Malcolm Draper and former GW “Pushing the Boundaries” exhibition; now all safely editor Stephen Booth. Do feel free to drop us a line with any (vaguely!) housed at the University of Ghent. Whilst there, we • Police were summoned to a day care centre where a relevant surveying stories to: [email protected]. For the sake of a visited the best car museum in Europe, Autoworld in three-year old was resisting a rest. good story we are always prepared to change names, details etc to Brussels. It was a fantastic day out. Don’t miss it if • A dentist and a manicurist married: they fought tooth protect the innocent as well as the guilty. you’re ever in Belgium; it’s not just for petrol-heads! and nail.

Winter 2020 19

18-19_undercurrents.indd 19 03-12-20 11:30 TSA NEWS

Streamer Innovative Thinking Through Changing Times

Fotobijschrift

As we look towards 2021, it is with some sadness NEW TSA MEMBERS that Geomatics World will not be reporting on what TSA Membership has doubled in size since 2006 and we hope will be the start of a sustained period of currently stands at 197 companies. The newest members recovery for the profession. While the impact of include Subscan UDS Ltd, Affiliate Member, Via East the Covid-19 crisis is likely to be felt for some time, Midlands Ltd, and Supplier Member, SEP Geospatial Ltd. TSA has taken steps to ensure the Association will continue to support and inform Members. THE SURVEY SCHOOL Staff at The Survey School continue to ensure that the TSA has taken soundings from Members on their desire implemented H&S procedures provide a Covid-19 - safe to move events online. The result of our poll indicated that environment. The School is now registered as an NHS 81% of Members were interested in online networking Contact Tracing facility. sessions. TSA prides itself on being a dynamic and responsive trade body and, as a result, will initially be TSA Surveying Course 55 commences on 21 January running a ‘drop-in’ hour on Zoom for TSA Members. 2021 and the School also runs a range of short courses, The aim will be to allow them to discuss challenges in covering all the ways in which geospatial data is now used. a supportive and confidential environment. Providing TSA Members benefit from a 25% discount on all courses opportunities to connect is very much part of addressing and a huge 50% off the Level 3 Diploma in Engineering the hugely important mental health issues that have arisen Surveying. For dates, booking and full information see the in these challenging times. TSA continues to provide school’s website www.surveyschool.org.uk resources to ensure that members are aware of all the support packages available, combined with business NEW COUNCIL MEMBERS AND AWARDS support and relevant webinars. The online sessions are TSA shared many of the significant milestones in TSA’s also an opportunity for the Secretariat and Council to make history with Geomatics World readers and in this final sure Members are fully up to speed with those benefits. edition it is fitting that we welcome our new TSA Council Members, Claire Fenwick, Maddy Lees and Andy Roberts During the pandemic, TSA has had a series of online and also highlight some of the recent graduates of the TSA Survey Liaison Group (SLG) meetings with RICS, CICES Surveying Course. They are all inspiring role models for the and the Geospatial Commission. The SLG normally meets future of our profession. twice a year, but six online meetings have already been held and more are scheduled. Sponsored by TSA, the Vice-President’s Award presented at the Survey School in 2019 went to Jessica Hurp of Secretary General Rachel Tyrrell says, “We have also been Evolution Surveys Ltd, who was commended for her in regular contact with the GEOBusiness team, as they attention to detail, care, and the hard work she put into the have had to change their plans a few times during the year TSA Surveying Course. and have always kept us up to date. The main focus is on how to make the online world a truly meaningful and Among the 31 graduates present for the Graduation engaging one, providing real value and not just never- Ceremony in 2018 were Jasim Hosani and Ali Alshehhi, ending screen-time and ‘Zoom fatigue’.” two students from Abu Dhabi, who travelled to Worcester specifically for the hands-on training in the principles of TSA is unable to make firm plans for 2021 but it is hoped surveying provided at School. that physical meetings will resume.

TSA From Abu Dhabi to Worcester for practical training TSA President Adam Bradley with Jessica Hurp, winner of the Vice- at The Survey School. President’s Award on Graduation Day from The Survey School in 2019.

20 Winter 2020

20_tsacolumn.indd 20 02-12-20 16:40 by STEPHEN BOOTH HISTORY

20 Years of GW

Editor from 1995 to 2017, Stephen Booth looks back on an era that has seen technology change the nature of surveying, moving from the field to the desktop.

This exercise involved trawling so resolution. So, we were entering began decades of economic growth, back through 20 years of GWs and an era of innovation driven by marred only by the financial crash, some Surveying Worlds from before technology and sometimes by the pandemic and the end of the trig September/October 2001, when events. In the meantime, what pillar. It was the age of “Smart”: by the title changed name. It’s been would today’s GW readers think 2017 (Jan/Feb), smartphones were a lengthy task. I was constantly of the choice made by readers 20 being used for progress recording on distracted by the many interesting years ago of ‘Surveyor of the 20th construction sites. articles and especially juicy items in Century’: head of the Directorate of Undercurrents which I had to read Overseas Surveys, Martin Hotine? Meanwhile, the ubiquitous total again. station, which first arrived in the Meanwhile, many were anxious and 1970s, had added GPS and MILLENNIUM’S EVE on tenterhooks about the threat of photogrammetry via image capture the millennium bug. However, the to its onboard totality by the end of new millennium came without any the millennium’s first decade. of the expected bugs, largely due to the diligent attention of many IT RICS: CONFERENCES specialists. AND A PROUD HISTORY In 1999, the RICS Land Survey Satellite positioning was moving Division, later renamed Geomatics, ahead rapidly. In 1999, the EU held a successful biennial decided to develop Europe’s own conference and was celebrating its satellite navigation system, Galileo. 50th anniversary. Keynote speaker GW reported on the plans following Professor David Rhind, former DG of a major conference in Nice in OSGB, told surveyors that societal November 2002. Meanwhile, the US change, technological development and Russia had plans to upgrade and the need for a radical review their systems, the latter to complete of education and training was their Glonass system. Of course, as necessary if we were to keep pace Professor Paul Cross pointed out in in the field of geomatics. The impact The eve of the Millennium. an article for Showcase 2000 issue of the Web, globalisation and de- No 1, “the real drivers. . . do not skilling would also play a part. On the eve of the millennium, the come from surveyors and engineers. edition of Surveying World for . . the real pressures. . . come largely The conference also looked back Nov/Dec 1999 set much of the from the transportation sector.” at the history of the division through scene for the coming decades. A a brilliantly informative series of striking cover image of Washington Cross-listed potential applications recollections put together by the DC taken from the Ikonos-II satellite like meteorology, geophysical then President, the late Professor some 400 miles out in space hazards, climate change, machine Michael Cooper. Tales of hardship heralded the coming growth of control, flood risk, farming, and derring-do in surveying and aerial imagery and remote sensing. oceanography and timing for cell mapping around the world were The satellite was offering 1 metre phones with GPS chips were soon recounted. But we were about to resolution in B&W and 4 metres appearing alongside other handheld embark on an era when surveyors in colour. Today, there are micro devices. Important in the adoption of increasingly moved from behind the satellites that capture full colour GPS was President Clinton’s order instrument to the detail pole and imagery, lidar, infrared, multispectral to remove selective availability from to the comfort of the office desk. and SAR, all to within a metre or the satellites’ signals. The move As Iain Greenway observed, ‘there >

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would be no more Land Rovers and Day” tsunami of 2004 triggered the technology to spatial data gathering, along with robotic operation. This sunsets’. A consequence has been dispatch of MapAction teams to processing and presentation would meant that the instrument could be that surveying has become more SE Asia, while HMS Scott captured provide exciting opportunities. His left standing and the surveyor could attractive as a career to women side-scan sonar data from a ruptured firm was one of the first in the UK move around, capturing points (still only 7% noted GW in Jan/Feb seafloor off Aceh in Indonesia, to apply high-resolution 3D imaging with a detail pole in contact with 2002). It was a time when land and reported in Mar/Apr 2005. techniques made possible by digital the instrument. Overlooked in this hydrographic surveying became part photography and laser scanners revolutionary move, first pioneered of the RICS’s “property profession” Our News columns regularly found such as the Cyrax, to be joined by Spectra Precision a decade (2004 Sept/Oct). We reported in stories in the national news media by several competitors. By using earlier, was the risk of theft of an detail (sometimes too much!) from relevant to geomatics. We reported photogrammetry, the firm expanded unattended instrument as well as around the world, fulfilling our how geomatics aided the search into the growing demand for lone working risks for surveyors. contribution to members’ CPD for the lost Malaysian Airlines flight digital solutions in the film industry. Nevertheless, most of today’s quota, on conferences, lectures, MH370 (2016 Jan/Feb. News, Later applications included crime instruments are controlled from seminars, exhibitions, workshops p.07). In 2013 May/Jun we reported scene mapping, 3D street scene tablet or pad computers or from and congresses. We visited Cairo, an important lesson for someone modelling, heritage recording, remote sites if installed as part of a Las Vegas, Washington, Munich, about knowing exactly where you artworks and accident investigation. monitoring system. Ireland and a host of German cities are when drilling holes: a piling drill as Intergeo continued its annual tour. pierced a tunnel on Network Rail’s New words and phrases entered the Software made great strides, Northern City Line (News p.07, see language of geomatics; for example, helped along as always by faster Hydrography is too often the also GW Mar/Apr 2014 p.06). the Blue Economy (not to be processing and ever more storage overlooked branch of geomatics. confused with Bluetooth), Internet of capacity. This is continuing today However, GW was saved by having Things (IoT), Point Clouds, Big Data with a growing move to cloud two hydrographers as Faculty (once described by a researcher computing and pay-as-you go chairs - Ruth Adams and Gordon as the ‘exhaust’ from millions of software. At last, clients were taking Johnston. Ted Read was also a credit card transactions) and the buried services seriously and at regular contributor on near shore word ‘Smart’ got capitalised, while last we had the tools to do it - with and river applications. as early as 2001 Robert Fowler ground penetrating radar and the highlighted the threat to privacy processing power to reveal the EVENTS posed by GIS and data miners. For world beneath. In 2014 (Jan/Feb), The year 2001 was overshadowed GW, it was a time driven by phrases Esri’s Jack Dangermond predicted by the terrible events of 11 like ‘growing the business’ and that web GIS was set to transform September (9/11). It surely became ‘moving up the property ladder’. cartography. Andy Coote (Jan/Feb a major driver in geospatial 2019) looked at the rise of GeoAI technologies for tracking, tracing, DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES with a quote: “to create machines GIS and analytics. The “Boxing It has been a time of disruptive capable of being sentient, you xxx_GW mar-apr cover.qxd 16/2/05 5:56 pm Page 1 technologies (and even more would first have to program in the disruptive politics, none of which is seven deadly sins: envy, gluttony, likely to stop any time soon). BIM, greed, lust, pride, sloth and wrath.” Our planet’s star - scintillations and robots, UAVs, Google Earth (and geomagnetic storms. maps), RTK networks and point LAND: BOUNDARIES, Issue No 3 ■ March/April 2005 ■ Volume 13 clouds arrived. As did terrestrial REGISTRATION AND The cover for Nov/Dec 2010 was technologies such as Bluetooth, MOVEMENT a startling pic of the Sun, heralding inertial units, 360 degree panoramic New technologies have helped an intriguing article on Ionospheric cameras and handheld laser land registration. We attracted high scintillations, geomagnetic storms scanners guided by SLAM. Airborne calibre authors for GW in this area of on the star and how it could lidar was now able to see through practice; for example, Stig Enemark, threaten global communications and the water column to a depth of over Robin McLaren (Crowd Sourcing GPS infrastructure. 30 metres (News Jul/Aug 2015). for land administration), Peter Dale In 2011 (Mar/Apr), indoor mobile and Paul van der Molen. In 2016,

<< PINPOINT FARADAY – PERSONAL NAVIGATION – GEOMATICS AND THE TSUNAMI >> EMERGING GEOMATICS mapping arrived with Trimble’s we were part of the campaign to ■ Anywhere, anytime – the SPACE project ■ PCA’s 40 years ■ Digital mobile devices for navigation ■ The narrowly educated surveyor ■ Technology boost for East Midlands ■ Action, Land, Bathymetry and the Tsunami ■ Writing in GW’s sister publication, TIMMS Cart. dissuade the Government from Showcase 2000 issue No 1, Simon privatising the Land Registry, Sponsored by the RICS Barnes argued that the emergence Instrument manufacturers now including a spirited and detailed HMS Scott images the seabed disruption of geomatics as a catch-all word offered reflectorless distance repulse from former chief registrar, from the tsunami. to describe the application of measurement on total stations, John Manthorpe (May/Jun).

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FC GW March-April 2013:FC GW Nov-Dec 2012.qxd 21/02/2013 18:32 Page 1 along with robotic operation. This of war or peace, of life or death to MARCH | APRIL 2013 GeomaticsWorld Issue No 3 : Volume 21 meant that the instrument could be nations” (2010 Jan/Feb). We also left standing and the surveyor could covered India and Pakistan’s bizarre move around, capturing points multi-enclave dispute of Cooch with a detail pole in contact with Behar (2012 Jul/Aug). the instrument. Overlooked in this revolutionary move, first pioneered Land and its displacement, by Spectra Precision a decade otherwise known as earthquakes, earlier, was the risk of theft of an was reviewed in 2012 Mar/Apr by unattended instrument as well as our New Zealand correspondent lone working risks for surveyors. Roy Dale, followed in May/June Nevertheless, most of today’s with a startling cover pic of NZ’s instruments are controlled from 4-metre shifting Greendale fault.

BIM: repeat the Helping to unravel DGI 2013: Too many points: Building Surveys: message even if you Easter Island’s maritime security LiDAR or is it time for survey tablet or pad computers or from lose the will to live mysterious statues highlighted photogrammetry? with Zebedee? And a report on the Christchurch remote sites if installed as part of a Earthquake by Malcolm Anderson, monitoring system. coincidently visiting the country Don’t miss GEO-South @ Holiday Inn Elstree 1&2 May @ WWW.PVPUBS.COM (2011 May/June). Software made great strides, Maritime disputes in SE Asia.

helped along as always by faster MAJORFC GW Sept-Oct 2015:FC GW Nov-Dec PROJECTS 2012.qxd 24/08/2015 09:29 Page 1 processing and ever more storage Land, of course, is at the heart SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2015 capacity. This is continuing today of boundary disputes, a topic we GeomaticsWorld Issue No 6 : Volume 23 with a growing move to cloud regularly returned to, usually under computing and pay-as-you go the auspices of David Powell or Carl software. At last, clients were taking Calvert. There was keen interest buried services seriously and at in international boundaries too. last we had the tools to do it - with The 2013 Mar/Apr issue featured ground penetrating radar and the Maritime Boundary Disputes in SE processing power to reveal the Asia by Robert Beckman. The article world beneath. In 2014 (Jan/Feb), remains an important introduction to Esri’s Jack Dangermond predicted the key issues in one of the world’s Surveying for geographical and spatial information in the 21st century that web GIS was set to transform flash points. Carl Calvert reported Geomatics: it’s all about robust measurement cartography. Andy Coote (Jan/Feb from Durham’s IBRU (International The future for Measurement The Sagrada Familia: Plaques, geodetic HxGN LIVE! 2015: surveyors is BIM techniques for geometry and a pendulums and shaping smart 2019) looked at the rise of GeoAI Boundary Research Unit) and Lord consulting vessel sensor offsets client in no hurry James Joyce change with a quote: “to create machines Curzon’s dictum: “Frontiers are capable of being sentient, you indeed the razor’s edge on which FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION FOR PROFESSIONAL SURVEYORS see page 3 would first have to program in the hang suspended the modern issues

seven deadly sins: envy, gluttony, FC GW May-June 2012.qxd 30/04/2012 15:07 Page 1 Construction continues at the Sagrada greed, lust, pride, sloth and wrath.” Familia, begun in 1882. GeomaticsWorld MAY | JUNE 2012 LAND: BOUNDARIES, Issue No 4 : Volume 20 We have covered projects as REGISTRATION AND diverse as Mapping for D-Day MOVEMENT (2004 July/Aug and Mapping in the New technologies have helped coastal zone for D-Day, 2014 July/ land registration. We attracted high Aug), Lewis & Clark’s mapping of calibre authors for GW in this area of Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase for practice; for example, Stig Enemark, $15 million from France, thereby Robin McLaren (Crowd Sourcing doubling the size of the infant US for land administration), Peter Dale (2004 July/Aug). But perhaps one and Paul van der Molen. In 2016, of the most extraordinary projects Surveying for geographical and spatial information in the 21st century

we were part of the campaign to Repairing New Can 19th c. mapping GeoForum hears Marine Marking the was Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia Zealand’s shaken help in retracing Map Addict technology and retirement of dissuade the Government from cadastra boundaries? author Oceanology Leica’s 360° man cathedral, where work began in privatising the Land Registry, 1882 and has still to be completed. including a spirited and detailed Current target is 2026, to coincide repulse from former chief registrar, with the centenary of architect John Manthorpe (May/Jun). Shifting ground and shifting titles. Gaudi’s death (2015 Sep/Oct). >

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The British Museum’s Great Court Michael Elfick, surveyor on Sydney Covington, author Andro Linklater, project saw some extraordinary Opera House, on the challenges John Wright, Jack Weightman, surveying challenges in a roof of setting out those sweeping roof Professor Mike Cooper, Mike Fort, made up of hundreds of individual sails (2005 July/Aug and Sept/Oct). Stan Longdin, Eric Radcliffe, John triangular glass panels (July/August In Jan/Feb 2011, Mike again gave Grant, Bob Blow, Rear Admiral 2000). At Heathrow’s T5, the job for us a fascinating article, this time on Steve Richie, Alan Wright, Ken Hall, contractors was not to lay a pipe Gertrude Bell: surveyor, mapper and Frank Shepherd, Richard Bullard, or a cable but to lay it and record kingmaker (to which one might add Ian Harley, Tim Leon, Graham precisely where it was. archaeologist, explorer, mountaineer Brown, Mike Curtis, Harry Glennie, Europe’s biggest infrastructure and boundary maker). Sir David Haslam, Jonathan Davy, project for much of the early 2000s, Derek and Greg Simmons, Brian the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, had MANUFACTURERS Hart, Doug Hodges, Keith Pope, only just started and was not AND DEVELOPERS Ordnance Survey DGs Brian Irwin, expected to be completed before Even before the millennium, there John Kelsey and Peter McMaster (“I 2007. In the meantime, trains would was an emerging trend for survey left school with a kilt and rifle so how continue to speed across northern instrument manufacturers to watch on earth have I landed up here!”). France, through the tunnel and out for pioneering measurement Apologies if I’ve missed someone. emerge into Britain’s ailing 19th The historic Ironbridge captured and technology and, if it worked, to century rail network before arriving analysed. buy up the developers. Leica For RICS, this has been a time at Waterloo; St Pancras was just a Geosystems was a typical example of transition from Division to dream. intricate detail in hard-to-reach of this, acquiring laser scanner Professional Group, from presidents places to be captured. The 2002 developers Cyra Technologies in to chairs. It is perhaps invidious REGULATORY AND March/April issue featured a striking 2001 and itself becoming part of to highlight the RICS Geomatics DATA UNDERPIN GEOMATICS cover showing CAD captured details Hexagon. Shortly afterwards, GPS presidents and chairs who were A new Land Registration Act came of the intricate structure of the Iron pioneers Trimble acquired Spectra excellent contributors to GW, but I into force in 2003 and, in 2004, Bridge in Shropshire, a UN World Precision, which added a range must record my thanks to Richard the Land Registry’s Index map was Heritage Site. The survey was carried of total stations to their portfolio Bullard, Mike Curtis, David Powell, vectorised, while in 2014 (Sept/ out on the 225-year-old structure (following an abortive in-house Rob Mahoney, Ruth Adams, Chris Oct), the PAS 128 standard for utility by English Heritage’s Metric Survey attempt to develop a total station). Preston and Gordon Johnston surveying arrived. Major countrywide Team using photogrammetry, laser They later added Zeiss Oberkochen who were contributors, not just databases were growing; OSGB scanning and reflectorless EDM, and Nikon’s total stations, followed with regular columns but through launched Mastermap, large scale while in 2014 (July/Aug), John by laser scanner developers Mensi significant and insightful articles seamless layered mapping of Hallett-Jones showed how a digital and Callidus. Topcon, a large too. Britain, while Getmapping launched camera imaged the Banqueting Japanese conglomerate with the imagery-based Millennium Map House in Whitehall. interests spanning surveying and During this period, a number and others were building height optometry, merged with Sokkia. of significant academics in our datasets and land use. Even the UK For surveying’s own heritage, In 2001, Showcase found over field retired and their work was Hydrographic Office was developing Struve’s Arc became a UNESCO a dozen GPS survey receiver celebrated through special days, a marine spatial data information world heritage monument. manufacturers in the survey market. colloquiums and seminars. system, while INSPIRE, the Marine Undercurrents noted that Heinrich That number was whittled down Professors Peter Dale, Vidal Bill and Location Strategy (2009 Wild’s T2 theodolite, which first saw to less than half that two decades Ashkenazi, Paul Cross and Ian Mar/Apr) tried to bring order. the light of day in 1920, was still later. Trimble supplier Survey Dowman provided memorable going strong more than 80 years Supplies rebranded as Korec. My events. Throughout this period, HERITAGE AND DIGITAL later with the instrument working on thanks to all these companies and there were a number of regular DOCUMENTATION Canary Wharf and the QEII Bridge many others too who supported contributors. Three stand out whose From the Antarctic Scott Huts, at Dartford. For those who wanted GW through both editorial and cathedrals, townscapes, Stonehenge detailed knowledge of techniques advertising. (2011 Nov/Dec) to ancestral in the past there was a reprint of structures in Colorado of Native William Leybourn’s The Compleat RETIREMENTS, LOSSES Americans (2019 May/Jun), the Surveyor from 1653 (2002 Nov/ AND THEY WHO SERVED TECHNICAL B2B MARKETING Heritage sector has benefited from Dec). In Sept/Oct 2003, Prof I was privileged to have been editor scanning technology and high Mike Cooper marked the 300th and to have known several stalwarts definition photography, now aided anniversary of the death of Robert of surveying who alas are no by SLAM technology. This allows Hooke. Mike also interviewed longer with us. We remember Gary WWW.GEOMARES-MARKETING.COM

24 Winter 2020

21-22-23-24-25_20yearsstephen.indd 24 02-12-20 16:41 HISTORY HISTORY

Covington, author Andro Linklater, columns were always interesting to John Wright, Jack Weightman, read. Those with regular columns Professor Mike Cooper, Mike Fort, like Nick Day, whose regular Stan Longdin, Eric Radcliffe, John Overcurrents included several Grant, Bob Blow, Rear Admiral reference articles such as those for Steve Richie, Alan Wright, Ken Hall, would-be immigrants to the US and Frank Shepherd, Richard Bullard, how to get the fabled green card Ian Harley, Tim Leon, Graham (2002 May/June). Brown, Mike Curtis, Harry Glennie, Sir David Haslam, Jonathan Davy, Carl Calvert’s legal column Derek and Greg Simmons, Brian unravelled many a thorny problem Hart, Doug Hodges, Keith Pope, for readers, while the late Garry Ordnance Survey DGs Brian Irwin, Covington provided a stream of John Kelsey and Peter McMaster (“I fascinating articles about field survey left school with a kilt and rifle so how in the past. John Brock, champion on earth have I landed up here!”). of FIG and especially its Art and Apologies if I’ve missed someone. History of Surveying Commission, provided constant copy about Insurance and flood risk was popular that For RICS, this has been a time his world travels and his native year. of transition from Division to Australia. Professional Group, from presidents James Kavanagh kept readers up to to chairs. It is perhaps invidious Along the way, GW found space date with the latest regulatory and to highlight the RICS Geomatics to highlight the activities of charity professional practice news. I salute presidents and chairs who were Map Action, the AGI, FIG, the British and thank you all for over 20 years excellent contributors to GW, but I Cartographical Association, ISPRS, of enthusiastic support for GW. must record my thanks to Richard the Defence Surveyors Association, Bullard, Mike Curtis, David Powell, and the Royal Geographical Society, Throughout most of this period, Rob Mahoney, Ruth Adams, Chris the latter providing a regular source GW’s office was sustained by a Preston and Gordon Johnston of reporting and comment for the small team consisting of the Editor, who were contributors, not just Undercurrents column. Barbara Molloy, Sharon Robson and with regular columns but through Richard Groom. Others came and significant and insightful articles Richard Groom gave willing and went including Jason Poole, Hayley too. unswerving support to GW. His Tear, John Fenn, Mark Wiseman and 2008 Sept/Oct Flood risk insurance Nigel Harding. During this period, a number article was a benchmark; members of significant academics in our and readers owe him a great field retired and their work was debt for his technical insight into celebrated through special days, all aspects of geomatics. Other colloquiums and seminars. regular writers included Adam Editor’s note. Professors Peter Dale, Vidal Spring, Gordon Adreassend, Mark Ian Dowman took over from Stephen as editor in Ashkenazi, Paul Cross and Ian Griffin, Ted Read and, throughout 2017 and the editorial policy has been unchanged, Dowman provided memorable the years, Malcolm Draper’s with many of the contributors continuing to report events. Throughout this period, Undercurrents. While Malcolm on important developments in geomatics. See the there were a number of regular found the bullets, I tried to fire them, editorial (page 4) for further comment. contributors. Three stand out whose often tempered with moderation.

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Winter 2020 25

21-22-23-24-25_20yearsstephen.indd 25 02-12-20 16:41 FUTURE PERSPECTIVE BY VANESSA LAWRENCE

The Future of Geospatial: Are we Everyone’s Friend or do They Not Know we Exist?

The perspective I bring to the ‘future of geospatial’ is taken from spending the last five years assisting senior government officials from both developing and developed countries and also briefing senior members of board rooms of some of the largest organizations in the world. They have all wished to think through how the added dimension of location could Figure 2: The Seraphim Capital Small Satellite Constellation Map. (Image Courtesy: make a difference to their decision-making. Seraphim Capital 2020)

Whilst we in the sector use terms recently, he had little knowledge an economic contributor. The globe is being increasingly adopted such as ‘geospatial information’, of geospatial, let alone that it geospatial industry globally was across our industry. ‘our geospatial community’ or underpinned some of the biggest valued at £300bn by GeoBuis even ‘the GIS team’, most senior decisions taken each day. We Report (2019). According to recent The Space industry is seeing government officials and senior discussed its use in government economic research, an economic significant growth in the earth directors of organizations do not and their operations from managing uplift can be expected to occur by observation sector often backed by normally recognise these terms. resources, administering services, to organising geospatial information venture capital investment (Figure 2). They are looking at either enhancing tackling emergencies. We covered within a National Spatial Data The ever-increasing number of and the information infrastructure of their its role in industries, including Infrastructure (NSDI) or a similar the move to smaller sized-satellites, country or their organization, or construction, the property market, infrastructure. In a study undertaken downloading not only traditional they are looking at the competitive utilities, insurance, defence and by the Boston Consulting Group bandwidths but now also small-sat advantage to be gained from using security, navigation, waste and asset (BCG) and a report by the UK radar and video imagery together extra data sources that other management, and logistics. Our Geospatial Commission (2018), it with the introduction of High- competing organizations have not discussion turned to its use at global was estimated that the fiscal uplift Altitude Platforms (HAPs) that not yet discovered. scale, to assist understanding and could total up to £14bn for the only use Solar Energy but now also to tackle some of the biggest issues United Kingdom alone. Hydrogen fuel, is revolutionizing the The boundaries between ‘geospatial’ facing the globe: environmental Remote Sensing community. But and so many other disciplines, issues such as climate change, We also know that we overlap irrespective of how versatile these in most users’ minds, are simply food security, identifying poverty considerably with the Space platforms are, they generally still only non-existent. We too may need and inequality and underpinning the industry as well as the Data Science generate data that is not ‘in context’. to break down these boundaries measuring and monitoring of United and AI industry (Figure 1). Each more than we have done to date, in Nations Sustainable Development year, we become more beneficial It is only the combination of their order to attract interest in what we Goals (UN-SDGs). to them as the interoperability and outputs with multiple other pieces do. And not just in the boardroom; open systems approach around the of locational information from young graduates around the globe By the end of the conversation, the ‘other providers’ which makes the are flocking to Data Science and phrase that I first used when writing Space-based data become useful Space roles, but are they equally for GIS Europe magazine in 1993 - information for the decision-maker. attracted to Geospatial? The answer ‘everything happens somewhere’, These ‘other providers’ may, at one currently is ‘no’ as so many still do was ringing in his head together with end of the spectrum, be humans not understand the power of our the understanding that geospatial using their mobile phones in a passive work and the benefit to society it can information is now seen as a vital locational sense or, at the other bring. part of a national and organizational end, highly accurate, authoritative information infrastructure. geospatial data from either a Everything happens government or the private sector. som ewhere Fitting in Figure 1. The changing symbiotic relationship of the geospatial, Talking to a Professor of Data So where do we fit in the future? space and AI industries over time. (Image Courtesy: Location With the addition of AI algorithms Science who ‘zoomed’ me Firstly, we know geospatial is International Ltd 2020.) to geospatial decision-making

26 Winter 2020

26-27-28_mslawrence.indd 26 02-12-20 16:41 FUTURE PERSPECTIVE BY VANESSA LAWRENCE FUTURE PERSPECTIVE

The Future of Geospatial: Are we Everyone’s Friend or do They Not Know we Exist?

Figure 3: The future focus of those working in geospatial measured by relative importance. (Image Courtesy: Location International Ltd 2020.)

Figure 2: The Seraphim Capital Small Satellite Constellation Map. (Image Courtesy: growth sectors and the fact that Seraphim Capital 2020) ‘everything happens somewhere’ is vital to solving some of the globe’s biggest challenges. It is therefore globe is being increasingly adopted processes, millions of calculations necessary to consider how our across our industry. can be made per second, assisting community should evolve for it to the terabytes of data within any prosper - and not be subsumed into The Space industry is seeing locational data stack to be easily adjoining communities. significant growth in the earth analysed - and consistent results to observation sector often backed by be provided to the decision-maker. Clearly, aligning ourselves with our venture capital investment (Figure 2). neighbouring communities will The ever-increasing number of and It can therefore be concluded ensure that we are recognised for the move to smaller sized-satellites, that the geospatial community, the benefits we can bring. But there downloading not only traditional the space community and the are many questions that need to be bandwidths but now also small-sat AI community have a symbiotic, answered for us to be successful. radar and video imagery together mutually reinforcing relationship. These include such questions as: with the introduction of High- Geospatial information provides the Should we promote our role more Altitude Platforms (HAPs) that not context to the work of the Space within the measuring and monitoring only use Solar Energy but now also and the AI industry and hence I of the globe’s grand challenges so Hydrogen fuel, is revolutionizing the predict the geospatial community that we are an attractive community Remote Sensing community. But will grow in importance as the to join? Should we consider irrespective of how versatile these benefits it brings to Space and AI perhaps using not only ‘geospatial platforms are, they generally still only are increasingly recognised. professional’ but also ‘geodata generate data that is not ‘in context’. scientist’ within our vocabulary? Geospatial information in Should our graduate courses have It is only the combination of their a digital society greater intensity of focus on computer outputs with multiple other pieces The UK Geospatial Commission science than they do today? Should of locational information from (2020) stated In ‘Unlocking The we simplify our messages, so more ‘other providers’ which makes the Power of Location: the UK’s people understand that ‘geospatial’ Space-based data become useful Geospatial Strategy 2020 to underpins everyone’s daily lives? information for the decision-maker. 2025’ that ‘by 2025, the UK will These ‘other providers’ may, at one have a coherent national location Over the past 10 years, geospatial end of the spectrum, be humans data framework underpinning a has been successfully used to using their mobile phones in a passive flourishing digital society’ which tackle serious decisions in many locational sense or, at the other highlights the importance of industries from manufacturing to end, highly accurate, authoritative geospatial information to a country; the finance markets and, of course, geospatial data from either a and many similar statements are more recently, underpinning much government or the private sector. referenced around the globe. of the analysis undertaken in the Figure 1. The changing symbiotic relationship of the geospatial, Drawing on the recognition of this COVID-19 pandemic. However, the space and AI industries over time. (Image Courtesy: Location With the addition of AI algorithms importance, together with the awareness of the impact geospatial International Ltd 2020.) to geospatial decision-making symbiotic relationship with other makes has always been similar to >

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‘Intel inside’ our computers but more data becomes available from so rationalise what we do, why we do without even a label to identify many sources (Figure 3). it, for whom we do it and how we ourselves! This has to change for do it. This has to be in language that our identity not to be lost to other With a subject area measuring everyone understands and is simple subject areas. and monitoring the biggest issues to grasp, starting perhaps always with facing the globe which is no longer the phrase that is now 27 years old, Due to our historical roots, technology hampered by being ‘technology led’, ‘everything happens somewhere’. has often been the lead focus for that already adopts international the geospatial community. Today, protocols and standards and we need to ensure that the focus is is needed by adjacent growth ABOUT THE AUTHOR changed to one that emphasises the industries, it is clear that the Dr Vanessa Lawrence CB FRICS impact we can have organisationally, community will continue to thrive. is working internationally as a using globally adopted standards and senior advisor to governments, ensuring our people have the skills However, our success is conditional inter-governmental organizations to meet the growth of geospatial, as on us all being able to express and including the World Bank and large private sector organizations. She is a Non-Executive Director of several major scientific organizations in UK and abroad.

FURTHER READING From 2000-2014, she was the Director General - GeoBuis Report (2019), https://geoguiz.com/geobuiz-report-2019. and CEO Ordnance Survey, Britain’s National - UK Geospatial Commission (2018), https://www.gov.uk/government/ Mapping Authority and from 2011-2015, she was a publications/geospatial-commisssion-annual-plan-2019-2020. founding co-chair of the United Nations Committee - UK Geospatial Commission (2020) Unlocking the power of location: of Experts on Global Geospatial Information the UK’s geospatial strategy 2020 to 2025. Management (UN-GGIM).

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28 Winter 2020

26-27-28_mslawrence.indd 28 02-12-20 16:41 By Mila Koeva and Rohan Bennett Ask the Specialist

Drones in Land Administration

The almost ubiquitous UAV has been a key technology inspiring new thinking and disrupting land administration practice over the last decade. The flexibility and affordability of UAVs make them an efficient bridge between more expensive and time-consuming (but highly accurate) field surveys, and classical aerial or satellite photogrammetry. UAVs deliver tailored orthoimages from which spatial data – including visible parcel boundaries, building outlines and coordinates – can be derived. Many geospatial technology companies now offer high-tech UAV-based solutions, and many new hardware and software providers have also entered the market. Thanks to falling prices of UAVs, many land surveyors are now either experimenting with UAVs or already using them on a daily basis. So, what are the key questions that need answering before deciding to adopt a UAV in your next land administration project?

Local laws and public safety and security. The tools, UAVs will be highly suited regulations R&D sector strives for innovation. to some applications, but not all. First up, knowledge of local laws Commercial companies aim to If the project scale is national or and regulations is crucial. There sell products. Surveyors from any regional, then satellite imagery or are two different sets of laws to of these sectors wishing to use conventional aerial imagery will consider: i) laws relating to cadastral UAVs therefore need to be acutely probably be more appropriate. If surveying, and ii) laws relating to aware of, and keep up to date with, the work involves only a few parcels the use of UAVs. Surveyors already local UAV regulations, and also and demands high accuracy, then know the first set well. Those be aware of the local actors and ground-based survey methods, laws are long standing and tell us, administering authorities (e.g. civil using GNSS, are likely still a great amongst other things, what needs aviation authorities). Where there option. Fixed-wing UAVs are highly to be surveyed, who can do the are country-wide legal bans on UAV suited to community, village, corridor surveying, what the data quality flights, surveys might be impossible or even municipality-scale mapping and procedural requirements are, in the short term. Other contexts tasks. They are increasingly what features can be used to will require permission on a case- becoming like conventional aircraft; demarcate boundaries, and the by-case basis, as authorities take they can perform longer flights, but legal status of the cadastral plans into account the local situation. still require basic motion for their and maps. If the local laws allow More mature contexts will call for aerial mission and wider space for the use of physical boundaries that the registration and identification of take-off and landing. Rotary-blade are visible in imagery, then UAVs UAVs, and licensing of pilots (and/ UAVs are generally suitable for can be a solution. Likewise, if the or of the operating organization). smaller, more complex areas, having laws are not prescriptive about the Careful preparation of flight planning the ability to remain stationary in surveying tools and methods, or will be needed. This will also include the air, and are therefore great for are performance based, then UAVs ensuring the proper selection of 3D modelling of cadastral volumes, remain an option. the flying height, image overlap buildings and infrastructure. Either issues, and the necessary ground way, UAVs are likely the quickest Meanwhile, laws relating to the sampling distance. The more way to obtain near-real-time imagery use of UAVs, both for hobby and mature approaches make it easier at a low cost and the desired professional users, have been for surveyors to plan and complete quality. If these characteristics developing rapidly. A key challenge flights, and also support more are inherent and important in the in developing regulations is finding accurate results. project, UAVs might be the way to the right balance between the go. UAV technologies are always demands of different actors. Project characteristics advancing – flying parameters and Government institutions and Secondly, the land administration duration, sensor characteristics and regulatory bodies, even though project characteristics need to be positioning approaches are always often supportive of technical assessed against the capabilities improving – so keep an eye on that advancement, are aimed at ensuring of UAVs. Like all other surveying too.

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29_milakoeva.indd 29 02-12-20 16:42 REVIEW by PETER FOLWELL

A Glance Back and a Look Forward Through the Plowman Craven Lens Innovation, Resilience

Scan of a baby Threstal (as featured in and Diversity Harry Potter films).

and information manager. We felt Let’s get the word over with – COVID: hopefully, it is a short-term disruption, but it is a it was important that a geospatial considerable one. It is having an effect on how businesses and industries realign and how surveyor was at the leading edge they will approach the future. It is no surprise that the use and reliance on technology has and proactive in this field. We accelerated exponentially and those businesses that will survive, develop and grow will be published the first BIM specification the ones who embrace the opportunities technology brings. for all to use: the profession and our clients. Since our initial foray into BIM, we have been involved TECHNOLOGY capture, capabilities, speeds and horizons – the film industry and and have advised on some of the DRIVES PROGRESS application. forensic science took on board its major BIM projects, including the Having been in the geomatics possibilities and the advantages current retrofit and refurbishment industry, particularly with Plowman In my early days operating as a and accuracies it could bring. We of the Palace of Westminster. BIM Craven, for more years than I can surveyor in North Africa or on the saw our surveyors mixing with the and its adoption in the design and remember, it is the technology first commercial commissions stars on film sets, body scanning construction sector has continued revolutions that have driven the from the Ordnance Survey, the actors such as Daniel Craig, Natalie at a pace and we are now seeing surveying profession forward. They move from analogue to digital was Portman and Tom Cruise. We found a number of geospatial companies have changed the surveyor’s role, a welcome transition. No more our teams involved in high-profile playing key roles in the BIM process, our capabilities and our importance. negotiating for local maps or ink crime investigations such as the either as data capturers, modellers, We only have to look at past issues drawing on film (an art in itself). Princess Diana enquiry and the coordinators or consultants. of the “go-to” surveying publication, We moved to GPS and CAD – 2005 Bombings. Our surveyors Plowman Craven is now not only a Geomatics World, to see the the technology we now take for were suddenly becoming experts in company of measurement surveyors innovation and improvement in data granted. visual effects, match moving, and but a multi-talented practice of data wrangling. architectural technicians, structural Plowman Craven has always engineers and REVIT technicians. been an early adopter, applying THE IMPORTANCE OF BIM Geospatial companies are now and assisting in the development One of the great things about our being drawn not only into the of new technology. We were the profession is the diversity and BIM world, but also Digital Twin laser scanning evangelist – the first opportunity it brings - if you are on technology. adopter in Europe using the Cyrax one bus there is no reason why you (40kg of surveying equipment and can’t hop onto another. We knew THE REBIRTH OF a handful of points per second – that Building Information Modelling PHOTOGRAMMETRY you don’t know you have lived)! (BIM) was going to be a major A recent revolution in our industry There were many doubters and factor in the Government initiative was the re-birth of photogrammetry ‘nay sayers’ in the construction and to assist the construction industry and structure from motion, made property industry at the time who to meet its climate change targets possible by increasing computing said that clients weren’t ready for and it was clear from the start that power and digital imaging. it. Just look at its importance to the the surveying profession, and the This coincided nicely with the sector now! technology it utilises, could play development and increased use of and should play a key role in this UAV (drone) technology. Our desire As laser scanning technology application. Plowman Craven took to see where we could push the developed at a rapid pace, this as an opportunity to position boundaries, and a client whose Cyrax scanner used on St Vincents Plowman Craven looked at its itself, not just as a data provider, health and safety mantra was ‘boots church. application and expanded its but also as a consultant and a data off ballast’, directed us to find an

30 Winter 2020

30-31_pcauksurvey.indd 30 02-12-20 16:42 REVIEW by PETER FOLWELL REVIEW

innovative and groundbreaking UAV/ NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2017 photogrammetric solution for the rail issue No 1 • Volume 26 industry - the VogelR3D, featured WWW.GEOMATICS-WORLD.CO.UK High Precision Photogrammetry for Railway Survey in Geomatics World November/ December 2017. VogelR3D reduces time spent on the ground, provides band 1 accuracies and enables rail surveys to be carried out during the day. Again, it shows the increased Scan of a baby Threstal (as featured in opportunities and another ‘tool Harry Potter films). in the already large box’ for the Image of VogelR3D

High precision drone Realities of drone Laser scanning for Pros and cons of Intergeo 2017 report geospatial industry. As surveying surveys of railways surveys hazardous surveys building measurement from Berlin, Germany from GW Nov/Dec

FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION FOR PROFESSIONAL SURVEYORS SEE PAGE 3 companies employ more pilots, it 2017. 01_cover.indd 1 01-11-17 11:09 and information manager. We felt could create a multitude of openings it was important that a geospatial and outlets in other sectors where revenue streams. Plowman Craven surveyor was at the leading edge Plowman Craven can establish itself has extended its services to clients and proactive in this field. We as the expert consultant. and has developed innovative published the first BIM specification solutions. We are probably now for all to use: the profession and Where do we see geospatial entering the next revolution and our clients. Since our initial foray specialists in the future? Are we change. into BIM, we have been involved going to be replaced by automation and have advised on some of the and robots? The surveying industry Looking ahead in general, I feel the major BIM projects, including the should be under no illusion that it industry will: current retrofit and refurbishment will need to change, diversify and • need to maximise the value and of the Palace of Westminster. BIM adapt as we move forward. At intelligence of the data collected and its adoption in the design and Plowman Craven, we believe that by expanding the client base, construction sector has continued as technology becomes simpler, or not necessary in the traditional at a pace and we are now seeing more automated, then the role of marketplace; a number of geospatial companies the professional will become ever • need a diversity of skillsets within playing key roles in the BIM process, more important. Accuracy, rigour and an organisation – architects, either as data capturers, modellers, geospatial understanding are still the software developers, data coordinators or consultants. basics that need to be upheld. scientists, drone pilots; Plowman Craven is now not only a • have to embrace new technology – company of measurement surveyors The world is gorging itself on data it doesn’t close doors, it creates but a multi-talented practice of and information and Plowman opportunities; architectural technicians, structural Craven, along with the whole • enhance the importance and value engineers and REVIT technicians. geospatial industry, is part of the of geospatial services; Geospatial companies are now feast. As a company, we generate • need to be prepared for rapid and being drawn not only into the terabytes of data per week, so how continuous change; we may have BIM world, but also Digital Twin can we best manage and utilise to keep inventing ourselves. technology. this data? We need to be a better information manager as opposed THE REBIRTH OF to just a data-capturer. Can we play PHOTOGRAMMETRY a part in the smart city revolution? A recent revolution in our industry Our traditional competitors are ABOUT THE AUTHOR was the re-birth of photogrammetry changing and digital disrupters are A Board Director and MRICS and structure from motion, made entering our space, so we need to with over 30 years’ experience in possible by increasing computing be thinking like them. the surveying industry, Peter has power and digital imaging. worked not only in the UK but This coincided nicely with the FUTURE PROSPECTS also across Europe, North Africa and the Middle development and increased use of I don’t believe surveyors are out East. Building a name in property measurement UAV (drone) technology. Our desire of a job yet. The industry has the and developing strong strategic relationships with to see where we could push the innovation and flexibility to adapt clients, Peter has been instrumental in establishing boundaries, and a client whose and embrace opportunities. This has Plowman Craven as a leading player in the fields of health and safety mantra was ‘boots been shown in the past, working area referencing, drone applications and BIM. off ballast’, directed us to find an in new markets and driving new

Winter 2020 31

30-31_pcauksurvey.indd 31 02-12-20 16:42 FUTURE PERSPECTIVE by CRAIG HILL

Five Trends Affecting Surveying, Bringing About the Next Generation Surveyor The Evolution of the Smart Surveyor A recent survey shows 95% of surveyors agree new technologies have made them more efficient.

Surveyors are a versatile and flexible bunch. As the current COVID-19 situation has proven, keep up, making it possible to do this group, like others, has had to find new ways of operating. Even this article is an ‘more with less’. adjustment. Originally planned as a presentation, Sensor Fusion for the Smart Surveyor, for the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) Working Week 2020, adapting to a new 2. SURVEYORS ARE MORE platform for information sharing is becoming the new normal. THAN JUST SURVEYORS In the early days of surveying, surveyors could be thought of as In FIG Commission 5 – Positioning pushing surveyors along the path become increasingly important pioneers, charting the uncharted. and Measurement and FIG of evolution. At Leica Geosystems, to do more surveying with fewer This has changed significantly over Commission 6 – Engineering we are consistently steering and surveyors, and that’s where the years. No longer are days or Surveys, the focus is an ever- tracking these changes to make our technology comes in. With a focus weeks required to bring accurate evolving adoption of new customers more productive while on sensor fusion, bringing several coordinates to new areas; this can technologies and integrating maintaining survey-grade quality sensors into one instrument, more now be performed with GPS/GNSS methods with various instruments and accuracy standards. These are work can be completed with less positioning in a matter of minutes, and sensors to help surveyors, the five most recent trends in the time and personnel. The Leica if not seconds. But surveyors need engineers and other measurement surveying industry, bringing about Pegasus:Two Ultimate is one to embrace modern technologies professionals to do their job most the next-generation Smart Surveyor. such example of sensor fusion in order to succeed. From effectively, whatever the application. technology. With a combination of business professionals to digital As surveyors continue to navigate in 1. SURVEYORS DO LiDAR, laser scanning and imagery, connoisseurs, the modern surveyor these new confines, surveyors will ‘MORE WITH LESS’ the mobile mapping platform now often becomes the data do what they’ve always had to do – While there is plenty of work for increases a working day, enabling manager, playing an instrumental adapt, overcome and evolve. surveyors, the average age of surveyors and other measurement role in coordinating and managing As surveyors progress, they surveyors is rapidly increasing. The professionals to capture reality in the digital progression of a project. become smarter and more efficient. average age of the professional a variety of lighting conditions and As necessity is the mother of surveyor in the US, for example, vehicle speeds. Only with constantly 3. SURVEYORS ARE invention, there are driving factors is currently 59 years old. It has evolving technology are we able to EMBRACING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES Preliminary results from an ongoing research project by Leica Geosystems, looking at the needs of surveyors today, reveal 95% of surveyors agree new technologies have made them more efficient at work. Furthermore, research results convey total stations and GPS/GNSS technologies are commonplace with more than 90% utilisation, followed by laser scanning with more than 60% and UAVs with 40% utilisation. This clearly suggests surveyors are Surveyors are now required to do more with less. Surveyors have become data managers. embracing the latest technologies.

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32-33_hill.indd 32 02-12-20 16:43 FUTURE PERSPECTIVE by CRAIG HILL FUTURE PERSPECTIVE

Five Trends Affecting Surveying, Bringing About the Next Generation Surveyor The Evolution of the Smart Surveyor A recent survey shows 95% of surveyors agree new technologies New technology integrations are making surveyors more have made them more efficient. productive.

keep up, making it possible to do Another interesting finding is on the With technology making field work ‘more with less’. topic of an ageing profession – more easier, many surveying tasks can than 50% of the respondents said be completed by appropriately 2. SURVEYORS ARE MORE that they would recommend surveying trained personnel. The professional THAN JUST SURVEYORS as a profession to friends/family. surveyor will more likely become In the early days of surveying, the data/project manager and a key surveyors could be thought of as 4. THE INTEGRATION OF NEW stakeholder in selecting the correct pioneers, charting the uncharted. TECHNOLOGIES IS equipment to get the job done using This has changed significantly over INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY the personnel available. the years. No longer are days or At Leica Geosystems, we As the world continues to change, weeks required to bring accurate understand surveyors need to surveyors will continue to evolve. coordinates to new areas; this can do ‘more with less’ and we are With new technologies consistently now be performed with GPS/GNSS continuing to invest in product coming onto the scene, the positioning in a matter of minutes, development to make our opportunities to continually increase if not seconds. But surveyors need customers more productive. A efficiency and productivity abound. to embrace modern technologies recent example is the release of The resiliency of surveyors in the in order to succeed. From the Leica GS18 T, the world’s face of challenges only proves to business professionals to digital fastest GNSS rover, that no make the next-generation surveyor connoisseurs, the modern surveyor longer requires the pole to be held smarter. now often becomes the data vertical. With the integration of an manager, playing an instrumental Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), role in coordinating and managing the tilt of the pole is measured the digital progression of a project. and significantly speeds up the measurement process. Our 3. SURVEYORS ARE customers are telling us that EMBRACING THE productivity increases of more than LATEST TECHNOLOGIES 20% are being achieved because Preliminary results from an of this innovation. At the other ongoing research project by Leica end of the spectrum, we routinely Geosystems, looking at the needs support the FIG Young Surveyors of surveyors today, reveal 95% of group and support universities and surveyors agree new technologies colleges with the supply of the latest have made them more efficient at technology equipment and software New measurement technologies are democratising surveying. work. Furthermore, research results to be used in their education convey total stations and GPS/GNSS programmes. technologies are commonplace with ABOUT THE AUTHOR more than 90% utilisation, followed 5. TECHNOLOGY IS MAKING Craig Hill is the vice president of by laser scanning with more than SURVEYING AVAILABLE Marketing & Services for the Leica 60% and UAVs with 40% utilisation. FOR EVERYONE Geosystems’ Geomatics Divisions This clearly suggests surveyors are Surveying is no longer only for and Survey Portfolio. embracing the latest technologies. university educated professionals.

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32-33_hill.indd 33 02-12-20 16:43 UAV AND LIDAR by NORBERT HAALA, MICHAEL KÖLLE, AND DOMINIK LAUPHEIMER

Integrating UAV-based Lidar and Photogrammetry Dense 3D Point Cloud Generation with Ultra-high Precision

Recent unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV or ‘drone’) platforms jointly collect imagery and Lidar data. Their combined evaluation potentially generates 3D point clouds at accuracies and resolutions of some millimetres, so far limited to terrestrial data capture. This article outlines a project that integrates photogrammetric bundle block adjustment with direct Figure 2: Photogrammetric target on pillar. georeferencing of Lidar point clouds to improve the respective accuracy by an order of magnitude. Further benefits of combined processing result from adding Lidar range measurement to multi-view-stereo (MVS) image matching during the generation of high- adjustment to minimise differences precision dense 3D point clouds. between overlapping strips. This step improves georeferencing by estimating the scanner’s mounting calibration as well as correction parameters for the GNSS/IMU The project was aimed at the area- For traditional monitoring, a network altitude of 50m above ground level, a trajectory solution. Typically, a covering monitoring of potential of several pillars was established in strip distance of 35m and a scanner constant offset (Δx, Δy, Δz, Δroll, subsidence of about 10 mm/year the vicinity of the lock. As depicted field of view (FoV) of 70°, the system Δpitch, Δyaw) is estimated for each by a repeated collection of very in Figure 2, photogrammetric targets captured 300-400 points/m² per strip. Alternatively, time-dependent accurate and dense 3D point signalised the pillars to make them strip and 800 points/m² for the entire corrections for each of these six clouds. The considerable size of the available as check and control flight block due to the nominal side parameters can be modelled by test site in Hessigheim, Germany, points for georeferencing. For UAV overlap of 50%. The flight mission splines. prevents terrestrial data capture. data collection, a RIEGL RiCopter parameters resulted in a laser As shown in Figure 1, the site octocopter was used equipped footprint diameter on the ground of Figure 3 shows a Lidar ground consists of built-up areas, regions of with a RIEGL VUX-1LR Lidar sensor less than 3cm with a point distance control plane used for absolute agricultural use and a ship lock as and two Sony Alpha 6000 oblique of 5cm. The ranging noise of the georeferencing. Each signal features the structure of special interest. cameras. With a nominal flying scanner is 5mm. The trajectory of the two roof-like oriented planes at a platform was measured by an APX- size of 40cm × 80cm with known 20 UAV GNSS/IMU system to enable position and orientation. The direct georeferencing. The two evaluation of this project’s Lidar Sony Alpha 6000 oblique cameras strip adjustment additionally applies mounted on the RiCopter platform to the signalised pillars depicted in have a FoV of 74° each. Mounted at Figure 2. These photogrammetric a sideways-looking angle of ±35°, targets provide elevation differences they captured imagery at a ground to the georeferenced point cloud sampling distance (GSD) of 1.5-3cm at 33 targets. In the investigations, with 24 megapixels each. these differences resulted in an RMS accuracy of 5.2cm. To enable LIDAR STRIP ADJUSTMENT georeferencing of the Sony Alpha AND AUTOMATIC AERIAL oblique image block by automatic TRIANGULATION aerial triangulation (AAT), six of After direct georeferencing, a typical the photogrammetric targets were Figure 1: Test area at the Neckar River in Hessigheim, Germany. Lidar workflow includes a strip selected as ground control points

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Integrating UAV-based Lidar and Photogrammetry Dense 3D Point Cloud Generation with Ultra-high Precision

Figure 2: Photogrammetric target on pillar. Figure 3: Lidar control plane.

adjustment to minimise differences (GCPs). The remaining 27 targets HYBRID GEOREFERENCING between overlapping strips. This provided differences at independent OF AIRBORNE LIDAR step improves georeferencing by check points (CPs) ranging between AND IMAGERY estimating the scanner’s mounting 5.2cm (max.) and 1.2cm (min.) with Figure 4 depicts a section of the calibration as well as correction an RMS of 2.5cm. project’s Lidar points, colour-coded parameters for the GNSS/IMU by the intensity value. The overlaid trajectory solution. Typically, a Thus, neither the Lidar strip white points represent tie points constant offset (Δx, Δy, Δz, Δroll, adjustment nor bundle block from the bundle block adjustment Δpitch, Δyaw) is estimated for each adjustment yield the required 3D of the Sony Alpha imagery. strip. Alternatively, time-dependent object point accuracy during an Usually, this step estimates the corrections for each of these six independent evaluation of the different respective camera parameters from parameters can be modelled by sensor data. However, accuracy corresponding pixel coordinates splines. improves significantly if both steps of overlapping images. The object are integrated by so-called hybrid coordinates of these tie points are Figure 3 shows a Lidar ground georeferencing (Glira 2019). just a by-product. control plane used for absolute > georeferencing. Each signal features two roof-like oriented planes at a size of 40cm × 80cm with known position and orientation. The evaluation of this project’s Lidar strip adjustment additionally applies to the signalised pillars depicted in Figure 2. These photogrammetric targets provide elevation differences to the georeferenced point cloud at 33 targets. In the investigations, these differences resulted in an RMS accuracy of 5.2cm. To enable georeferencing of the Sony Alpha oblique image block by automatic aerial triangulation (AAT), six of the photogrammetric targets were selected as ground control points Figure 4: Lidar points coloured by intensity and photogrammetric tie points (white).

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mean. The corresponding standard sites. Another advantage of deviation of 0.6cm clearly indicates Lidar is the potential to measure that sub-centimetre accuracy is now multiple responses of the reflected feasible. signals, which enables vegetation penetration. On the other hand, COMBINED POINT CLOUDS adding image texture to Lidar point FROM LIDAR AND clouds is advantageous for both Figure 5: Elevation differences of Lidar point cloud to signalised targets. GCPs are marked MULTI-VIEW STEREO visualisation and interpretation. In as red circles. Photogrammetric tie points as combination with the high-resolution depicted in Figure 4 are just a by- capability of MVS, this supports the product of bundle block adjustment, argument to properly integrate Lidar In contrast, hybrid georeferencing is available from the standard since dense 3D point clouds are and MVS during 3D point cloud applies these tie point coordinates photogrammetric targets, which is provided by MVS in the subsequent generation. to minimise their differences to the of high practical relevance. step. In principle, the geometric corresponding Lidar points. This accuracy of MVS point clouds Figure 6 shows a 3D textured mesh process estimates time-dependent The authors applied a flexible directly corresponds to the GSD generated from the Sony Alpha corrections of the flight trajectory spline as a powerful model for and thus the scale of the respective images by the MVS pipeline realised similar to traditional Lidar strip trajectory correction. This flexibility imagery. This allows 3D data in the SURE software from nFrames. adjustment. Within this step, tie can potentially result in systematic capture even in the sub-centimetre As can be seen in Figure 7, much point coordinates add geometric deformations if applied during range for suitable image resolutions. more geometric detail is available, constraints from AAT. This provides standard strip adjustment. In However, stereo image matching e.g. on the top of the church and considerable constraints from the contrast, integrating information presumes the visibility of object in vegetation after Lidar data is image block to correct the Lidar from stable 2D image frames points in at least two images. This integrated. Face count typically scan geometry. This is especially as oriented during bundle block can be an issue for very complex adapts to the geometric complexity, helpful if both sensors are flown adjustment reliably avoids such 3D structures. In contrast, the polar which is also visible for the small on the same platform and thus negative effects. Figure 5 depicts measurement principle of Lidar section of the church tower. As share the same trajectory. Hybrid the result of the hybrid approach sensors is advantageous whenever an example, Figure 6 consists of georeferencing additionally opens from the OPALS software used. the object appearance changes approximately 325,000 faces, while up information on ground control The six GCPs marked by the rapidly when seen from different Figure 7 features 372,000 triangles. points used during bundle block red circles and the remaining 27 positions. This holds true for semi- adjustment. Thus, georeferencing targets used as CPs coincide with transparent objects like vegetation Figures 8 and 9 demonstrate the of Lidar data no longer requires the AAT already discussed. For or crane bars (see Figure 4), for complementary characteristics dedicated Lidar control planes. hybrid georeferencing, the elevation objects in motion like vehicles and of Lidar and MVS for 3D points Instead, all the required check differences are -1.5cm minimum, pedestrians, or in very narrow urban at another part of the test site. point and control point information 0.7cm maximum and -0.4cm canyons as well as on construction Figure 8 depicts the RGB-coloured points generated by MVS; the overlaid Lidar data is colour- coded according to the respective elevation. Lastly, the yellow line represents the profile used to extract the points depicted in Figure 9. The discrepancies between the point clouds from MVS (red) and Lidar (blue) are especially evident at trees, where Lidar allows the detection of multiple returns along a single laser ray path.

Whereas point clouds as shown in Figures 8 and 9 are an unordered set of points, meshes as depicted in Figures 6 and 7 are graphs consisting of vertices, edges and faces that provide explicit adjacency Figure 6: Textured 3D mesh from MVS. Figure 7: Textured 3D mesh from Lidar and MVS. information. The main differences

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sites. Another advantage of Lidar is the potential to measure multiple responses of the reflected signals, which enables vegetation penetration. On the other hand, adding image texture to Lidar point clouds is advantageous for both visualisation and interpretation. In combination with the high-resolution capability of MVS, this supports the argument to properly integrate Lidar and MVS during 3D point cloud generation.

Figure 6 shows a 3D textured mesh generated from the Sony Alpha images by the MVS pipeline realised in the SURE software from nFrames. As can be seen in Figure 7, much more geometric detail is available, e.g. on the top of the church and Figure 8: Comparison of 3D points from MVS (RGB) and Lidar measurement (height coded). in vegetation after Lidar data is Yellow line defines profile depicted in Figure 9. integrated. Face count typically adapts to the geometric complexity, which is also visible for the small section of the church tower. As an example, Figure 6 consists of approximately 325,000 faces, while Figure 7 features 372,000 triangles.

Figures 8 and 9 demonstrate the complementary characteristics of Lidar and MVS for 3D points Figure 9: Extracted profile with 3D points from Lidar (blue) and MVS (red). at another part of the test site. Figure 8 depicts the RGB-coloured points generated by MVS; the between meshes and point clouds Lidar point cloud (right), subsampled overlaid Lidar data is colour- are the availability of high-resolution by factor 20 for visualisation. The coded according to the respective texture and the reduced number following class colour code is elevation. Lastly, the yellow line of entities. This is especially used: facade (yellow), roof (red), represents the profile used to useful for subsequent automatic impervious surface (magenta), green extract the points depicted in Figure interpretation. Generally, many space (light green), mid and high 9. The discrepancies between the (Lidar) points can be associated vegetation (dark green), vehicle point clouds from MVS (red) and with a face. The authors utilised (cyan), chimney/antenna (orange) Lidar (blue) are especially evident this many-to-one relationship and clutter (gray). at trees, where Lidar allows the to enhance faces with median detection of multiple returns along a Lidar features derived from the The forwarding was accomplished single laser ray path. respective associated points. This easily by re-using the many-to-one enabled them to integrate inherent relationship between Lidar points Whereas point clouds as shown in information from both sensors in and faces. Thereby, the semantic Figures 8 and 9 are an unordered the mesh representation in order to segmentation of the Lidar point set of points, meshes as depicted achieve the best possible semantic cloud uses features that have in Figures 6 and 7 are graphs segmentation. Figure 10 shows originally only been available for consisting of vertices, edges and the labelled mesh as predicted by the mesh, e.g. texture. Hence, faces that provide explicit adjacency a PointNet++ classifier (left) and the semantic mesh segmentation Figure 7: Textured 3D mesh from Lidar and MVS. information. The main differences the labels transferred to the dense uses inherent features from both >

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representations, which is another planes become obsolete, thus benefit of joint image and Lidar considerably reducing the effort for processing. providing control information on This article was previously published in GIM the ground. The authors expect a International, May-June 2020. CONCLUSION further improvement by replacing This article presents a workflow the current cameras mounted on for hybrid georeferencing, the RIEGL RiCopter with a high- enhancement and classification quality Phase One iXM system to ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS of ultra-high-resolution UAV acquire imagery of better radiometry Parts of the presented research were funded within Lidar and image point clouds. at higher resolution. This will further a project granted by the German Federal Institute of Compared to a separate evaluation, support the generation and analysis Hydrology (BfG) in Koblenz. Thanks go to Gottfried the hybrid orientation improves of high-quality point clouds and thus Mandlburger, Wilfried Karel (TU Wien) and Philipp accuracies from 5cm to less than enable UAV-based data capture for Glira (AIT) for their support and adaption of the 1cm. Furthermore, Lidar control very challenging applications. OPALS software during hybrid georeferencing. The support of Tobias Hauck from nFrames during joint work with SURE is also acknowledged.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Norbert Haala is a professor at the Institute for Photogrammetry, University of Stuttgart, where he is responsible for research and teaching in photogrammetric computer vision and image processing. Currently he chairs the ISPRS Working Group on Point Cloud Generation and is head of the EuroSDR Commission on Modelling and Processing.

Michael Kölle holds an MSc in Geodesy & Geoinformatics from the University of Stuttgart. As a Figure 10: Labelled mesh (left) and the labels transferred to the dense Lidar point cloud member of the geoinformatics (right). group at the university’s Institute for Photogrammetry, he is currently working on his PhD. His main research interests are focused FURTHER READING on combining paid crowdsourcing and machine - P. Glira, N. Pfeifer, G. Mandlburger (2019) Hybrid Orientation of learning techniques such as active learning for Airborne Lidar Point Clouds and Aerial Images, ISPRS Annals of the generating high-quality training data, especially in Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, the context of 3D point clouds. Volume IV-2/W5 (2019), ISSN: 2194-9042; 567 - 574. Dominik Laupheimer - N. Haala, M. Kölle, M. Cramer, D. Laupheimer, G. Mandlburger, P. holds an MSc in Geodesy Glira (2020) Hybrid georeferencing, enhancement and classification of and Geoinformatics from the ultra-high resolution UAV Lidar and image point clouds for monitoring University of Stuttgart. Currently, applications, Annals of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and he is a PhD candidate at the Spatial Information Sciences. university’s Institute for Photogrammetry. His main research interest is the semantic interpretation of - D. Laupheimer, M. Shams Eddin, N. Haala (2020) On the Association 3D urban scenes as acquired by photogrammetric of Lidar Point Clouds and Textured Meshes for Multi-Modal Semantic and Lidar sensors. His work is focused on the Segmentation, Annals of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and semantic segmentation of meshes leveraging Spatial Information Sciences. machine learning techniques.

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