Revolutionizing Geospatial Mapping with High-Resolution Machine Vision

AI-InfraSolutions (Mobile Mapping) specializes in the integration of high-resolution imaging systems and advanced sensors like LiDAR, IMUs, and GPS for AI-powered data enrichment. Their solutions are designed to automatically gather detailed geospatial information, such as traffic sign identification, road condition assessment, and tree monitoring. These insights enable municipalities and companies to manage assets more effectively and take proactive actions for predictive maintenance.

The Task

Design and produce a high-resolution 360-degree camera head capable of acquiring detailed imaging data. This data, combined with other sensors, serves as the foundation for AI-driven inspections that automatically collect various types of geospatial information.

The Challenge

AI-InfraSolutions faced several technical challenges in developing the 360-degree camera head:
Hardware Selection and Design
Finding the optimal combination of camera sensors, lenses, and interfaces, and determining their ideal positions and orientations within the 360-degree setup.
 
Key Requirements
  • Capture sharp images at specified working distances (2 to 40 meters).
  • Produce a final panoramic image of over 123 MPix.
  • Ensure large spatial coverage (H x V: 360° x 120°) with sufficient overlap for efficient stitching.
  • Maintain low parallax angles to avoid stitching artifacts.
  • Capture high-frame-rate images to enable acquisition every 5 meters at driving speeds of up to 100 km/h.
  • Synchronize the cameras perfectly with each other and with external GNSS positioning systems.
  • Use high-sensitivity sensors to reduce exposure times and minimize motion blur in low-light conditions.
 
Cost Minimization
Achieve all technical requirements while keeping costs low.

How it Works

The camera head is mounted on top of a vehicle, integrated with additional sensors like LiDAR, IMUs, and GNSS. As the vehicle moves, it captures synchronized images every 5 meters, optimized based on the current conditions. These images are linked with data from other sensors and stored in real-time on a RAID system. Although the images are stored online during data collection, post-processing tasks such as tone mapping and stitching are performed offline for enhanced image quality and detail. Once processed, the data is ready for further analysis in various applications.

Mobile Mapping then prepares the data to be "AI-ready" for automatic interpretation in several applications, including:
 
  • Infrastructure Asset Management: Monitoring and maintenance of infrastructure assets.
  • Road Management: Assessment and management of road conditions.

The Solution

STEMMER IMAGING provided the design, layout, and manufacturing of the technology that enabled Mobile Mapping to reliably inspect roads and surrounding environments using seamless, high-quality images. This solution significantly improved the analysis of 360-degree images in urban, industrial, and road settings, offering much more visual detail compared to competitive camera units. The camera head allows continuous high-speed recording for up to 247 km (optionally expandable to 496 km), ensuring reliable image acquisition without the need for duplicate trips.
 
  • Integrated and Compact Machine Vision System: Ensures ease of installation and use in mobile mapping applications.
  • Precise Intrinsic Calibration: Enables improved and reliable panoramic stitching by removing perspective distortions in raw images.
  • High-Speed Measurement Frequency: Supports rapid data capture to keep up with driving speeds.
  • Optimized Control of Camera Settings: While post-processing tasks such as tone mapping and stitching are done offline, real-time control is focused on adjusting camera system settings, such as auto-brightness, to ensure optimal image quality during data collection.
  • Proven Simulation Workflows: Virtual simulations allow for pre-testing design modifications before implementation, reducing physical prototyping costs.
“We are proud to partner with Stemmer Imaging to redefine the possibilities of high-quality mobile mapping at scale. By combining our innovative approach with Stemmer Imaging’s leading vision, we are elevating our solutions to an unmatched level.”
 
Jeroen Zanen - Founder, CEO | AI-InfraSolutions

Success Factors

The keys to the success of this solution are:
 
  • Open Communication: Seamless collaboration between Mobile Mapping and STEMMER IMAGING.
  • Defined Project Management Processes: Efficient project qualification, planning, and execution to enable rapid time-to-market.
  • Advanced Solutions Availability: Access to STEMMER IMAGING’s extensive catalogue and expertise in developing custom solutions beyond current market offerings.
  • Virtual Simulations: Reduced costs for research and feasibility studies through proven simulation workflows.
  • Expertise: Leveraging the extensive experience and capabilities of STEMMER IMAGING's team.
  • Supplier Network: Benefit from STEMMER IMAGING’s network of suppliers and service providers.
  • Seamless Integration: Efficient integration of STEMMER IMAGING’s technology with the final Mobile Mapping software.

Innovating Geospatial Mapping with Machine Vision

Geospatial mapping technologies are revolutionizing how we capture, analyze, and interact with spatial data. By enabling the creation of highly accurate three-dimensional models and maps with real-colour textures, these advancements are critical for better planning, monitoring, and decision-making in industries such as agriculture, construction, and urban planning.

STEMMER IMAGING’s machine vision expertise plays a vital role in capturing and processing high-resolution imagery for geospatial mapping. We help businesses improve efficiency, accuracy, and insights by delivering precise and reliable data. By integrating our advanced machine vision systems with comprehensive support and services, we assist our partners in navigating the complexities of artificial vision in the modern world. Together, we turn innovative ideas into tangible realities, driving progress and shaping a smarter future.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Machine Vision

At STEMMER IMAGING, we are dedicated to advancing the potential of machine vision technology. Our pioneering solutions and comprehensive services empower you to thrive in a rapidly evolving market. Partner with us to achieve remarkable success and spearhead the future of your industry.