An interesting announcement from FirstBaseSolutions as they describe the offerings in the Google Earth Enterprise Portable Globe Creator. FirstBase describes the following… Previously if a client wanted to access a Google Earth Enterprise database (3D Globe) disconnected from their network they would need to use VM Ware running a Earth Server with complete Google Earth Databases published to it. Now with the new Globe Creator a virtual machine is no longer required and clients can now clip out portions of globes. The Google Earth Portable Globe Creator tool which runs on the Enterprise Earth Server and uses the Earth Plug-In. This cutter allows users to select a globe, define a area of interest and package and download the information in a single globe file. See more details at FirstBaseSolutions
Archives for August 30, 2010
Surveyors Rendezvous 2010 – Chattanooga, Tennessee aboard the Delta Queen Steamboat Hotel
An interesting event taking place in TN this September – National Rendezvous, 2010; Chattanooga, Tennessee aboard the Delta Queen Steamboat Hotel on the North Shore Wednesday evening, September 15 through Saturday, September 18, 2010. On Friday, the 17th of September, some of the most revered historians within the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) will present the unknown facets of that organization’s history to the group. TVA developed the primary maps used within the hiking, recreation, planning, engineering and surveying communities, the map known as the 7.5 minute quad sheet. TVA played a huge role in mapping Germany and France during WW II. What did the 1944 map of Oak Ridge, Tennessee look like? How much water is backed up and where will it go when one builds a dam. The TVA is the premier mapper of the 20th century with others following their ground breaking techniques and methodology. The entire globe benefited from their work in our little valley. See more details on Amerisurv or see also http://www.surveyorshistoricalsociety.com/
Topcon Drive + Ride Data Collection and 3D Mobile Mapping in San Diego
Come along for a 4 minute ride in the Topcon mobile data collection vehicle. At the ESRIUC we had the pleasure of connecting with the team from Topcon who graciously took me on an interesting 3D Mobile Mapping ride & drive, giving us a first-hand look at how the company collects accurate, 3D mapping data “simply” by driving the streets in a vehicle equipped with some pretty impressive hardware!
While driving around San Diego, CA. the vehicle constantly gathers data (360 degrees) to generate 3D point cloud data that can then be combined with georeferenced imagery to then generate a rich, colorful, high-resolution 3D field scene for use in enterprise GIS apps. According to the company, the data, once collected, can then be readily exported to .SHP format for subsequent use within ArcGIS or ArcPad via a hand-held GPS enabled device.
About the IP-S2 mobile mapping system:
- The IP-S2 is a modular plug&play system that combines 360 degree digital imagery and laser scanning, providing the end user with a detailed 3D point cloud data and georeferenced imaagery. The IP-S2 is a combination of:
- geo referenced, high def LiDAR
- 360 degree camera for spherical image capture
- dual frequency GNSS tracking
- high accuracy 6-axis IMU integration
- external wheel en coders for odometry and tracking
- fast, simple setup
- ideally suited for utilities, transportation uses, and GIS asset management