Digital Camera
In September 2004, BLOM Aerofilms introduced a Vexcel UltraCAM-D digital aerial survey camera, and in May 2006 adding to this was the acquisition of a second UltraCAM-D, giving the company the greatest capacity to capture digital imagery in the UK . The advantages over film were immediately recognized as;
- Immediate availability of digital imagery with no intermediate film processing or scanning.
- Significantly higher clarity and quality of image.
- First generation image, rather than a scanned copy of film.
- Higher spectoral band.
- Infra-red imagery collected simultaneously.
- On-site checking of coverage and quality.
- Imagery may be acquired in more marginal weather conditions than conventional film photography.
- Improved operational efficiency and accuracy throughout the map production process.
- No dedicated film processing laboratory.
- Less environmental impact, no chemicals to store & process.
- Health & safety concerns over chemical storage, handling & dark rooms.
To support accurate positioning and orientation the UltraCAM-D camera also uses an Applanix POS 510 inertial measurement unit (IMU) which enables the system to be more independent of ground control, reducing costs and making the project more efficient, especially in areas where access is difficult.
The introduction of digital camera technology means that the company has had to develop new operating procedures and processes to cope with large volumes of data and the need to rapidly quality control imagery before aircraft storage systems are deleted.
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