Aerial photogrammetry is the technique of using aerial images to create accurate 3D models of real-world objects and scenes.
Let us walk you through the process step-by-step:
Capturing Images: Images are commonly captured from an elevated position, traditionally using airplanes, helicopters, or even satellites, but drones are increasingly becoming popular due to their affordability, maneuverability, and ease of use.
Image Overlap: The key to creating accurate 3D models is to capture images with significant overlap between them, which allows the software to identify common features inmultiple images and triangulate their positions in 3D space. The overlap areas become parallax error-free stereo setups allowing for the creation of 3D Points, 3D lines, and breaklines.
Processing the Images: The specialized software processes captured images by identifying common features in the overlapping images. The software then uses these features to calculate the position and orientation of each image.
3D Model Generation: After determining the camera positions and orientations, the software can generate a 3D point cloud of the object or scene. A point cloud is essentially a group of points in 3D space that depict the surface of the object or scene.
Creating a Textured Mesh: Sometimes, the software can generate a textured mesh from point-cloud data. A textured mesh is a 3D model that not only captures the shape and structure of the object but also includes a texture map that defines its color and appearance.
List of commonly used Photogrammetry software
Agisoft Metashape: Turn photos into 3D models
Pix4Dmapper: Aerial mapping and modeling
RealityCapture: High-quality 3D models
MicMac: Free, open-source photogrammetry
VisualSFM: Structure-from-Motion and more
Meshroom: Open-source 3D reconstruction
DroneDeploy: Aerial insights for industries
PCI Geomatica: Process aerial images
OpenDroneMap: Drone mapping for the community
COLMAP: Structure-from-Motion
ContextCapture (iTwin Capture) by Bentley: Reality modeling
3DF Zephyr: 3D modeling from photos
Regards 3D: Free and Use SfM method
Matterport: 3D mapping for construction
ArcGIS Site Scan: Professional photogrammetry software
SimActive Correlator3D: Aerial surveying and mapping
ReCap Pro by Autodesk: Reality capture and 3D modeling
Photo Modeler: Powerful and flexible software
I-CONIC Vision: Real-time process
KIWA: Digital concrete inspection platform
AVAG: It is an online photogrammetry platform
Drone Mapper: Streamlining aerial mapping and photogrammetry
3Dsurvey: 3D mapping & modelling.
One3D by MYX: Advanced digital twin solutions for any physical asset.
Skylinesoft: PhotoMesh – Fully automated, scalable photogrammetry
Global Mapper Pro: Advanced GIS and photogrammetry platform
DJI Terra: Photogrammetry is its core technology
Aerial photogrammetry is a technique that has a wide range of applications. It can be used to create 3D models of buildings, structures, and other man-made objects, which can come in handy for architectural planning, construction monitoring, and facility management. It's also useful for creating highly accurate topographic maps that show the elevation of the land surface, calculating the volume of stockpiles, quarries, and other features, and documenting cultural heritage sites, such as archaeological ruins and historic buildings. Additionally, aerial photogrammetry can be used to monitor changes in the environment, such as deforestation and coastal erosion.
For more information about aerial photogrammetry services, please feel free to reach us at:
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