LizardTech, a division of Celartem Inc. and a provider of software solutions for managing and distributing geospatial content, announced that its Express Server
6.1 software has received a Certificate of Networthiness (CoN) from the U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command. Express Server’s submission for certification was facilitated by Spatial Engineering, a leading geospatial engineering firm located near Savannah, Georgia.

"After thoroughly evaluating several potential solutions, it is clear that LizardTech Express Server is the only choice for managing large volumes of imagery,” said Les Sears, Spatial Engineering’s vice president of research and development. “Express
Server's delivery of compressed imagery, ease of integration and performance
greatly enhance the functionality and usability of our geospatial applications."

Express Server is LizardTech’s stable and easy-to-use solution for distributing imagery in standard geospatial formats and along with GeoExpress is the second product in LizardTech’s Express Suite line of geospatial software to receive certification. With Express Server, users on any device access imagery faster, even over low-bandwidth connections.

The Certificate of Networthiness signifies that Express Server is configured to the current Army Golden Master (AGM) baseline and complies with all U.S. Army and Department of Defense (DoD) standards for security, compatibility and sustainability. A CoN is required for all enterprise software products in the Army Enterprise Infrastructure Network. Certification applies to the U.S. Army as well as all National Guard, Army Reserve and DoD organizations that use the Army Enterprise Infrastructure Network.

“Receiving certification from the U.S. Army is a significant honor,” said Jon Skiffington, LizardTech’s director of marketing. “By demonstrating that our software meets the DoD’s strict security requirements, our customers within the US Army can now rapidly establish an Express Server installation to deliver imagery to their forward-deployed users, even over bandwidth-starved connections.”

 

Contact Information:

LizardTech
http://www.lizardtech.com/products/exp/

CompassData, Inc. is excited to announce that a reseller agreement has been signed with Mississippi based Spatial Information Solutions. Under this new agreement, Spatial Information Solutions and their Accuracy Analyst customers will have full access to the CDI archive of over 14,000 Ground Control Points. Accuracy Analyst version 2.0 provides software-based map accuracy and content enhancement solutions. CompassData is the foremost supplier of current, accurate GPS based data collection and ground control survey for the Geospatial Community. Ground control is a critical component when assessing a map’s spatial accuracy making this partnership a perfect fit. Keep looking for exciting new collaborations between the CompassData Control Freaks and Spatial Information Solutions.

Contact Information:

CompassData, Inc
http://www.compassdatainc.com

PCI Geomatics, a world leading developer of geo-imaging software and systems, is pleased to announce the availability of an upgrade to Geomatica, its remote sensing and image processing software.  Version 10.3.2 is the latest release available, and it includes additional satellite sensor support in addition to enhanced functionality.

Satellites supported in this release include HJ-1A/B, the first 2 sensors of the Chinese Environment and Disaster Monitoring Microsatellite Constellation.  Upgrades to the math modeling have also improved the overall accuracy of Radarsat-2 correction using the Toutin model with no GCPs; an accurate, alternative solution to the RPC model.

Additionally, Geomatica 10.3.2 includes upgrades to PCI Geomatics’ existing ATCOR, atmospheric correction capabilities.

“With the release of Geomatica 10.3.2, we remain committed to providing customers with the best satellite sensor support available, as we continue to meet their remote sensing and image processing needs,” said Peter Hazlett, Product Manager at PCI Geomatics.

Both Windows and Linux editions of Geomatica 10.3.2 are available.

Contact Information:

PCI Geomatics
http://www.pcigeomatics.com/updates

Merrick & Company is providing light detection and ranging (lidar) and hyperspectral imaging services and products to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Joint Airborne Lidar Bathymetry Technical Center of eXpertise (JALBTCX), for the mapping of the southeastern U.S. coastline.  The project is being completed under an indefinite delivery indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract awarded to Merrick in 2009.  The coastline is being mapped in order to provide high resolution elevation and imagery data in support of the USACE National Coastal Mapping Program (NCMP).  Data that will be collected includes lidar at a 1-meter nominal posting, 20-centimeter natural color imagery, and 1-meter VNIR Hyperspectral imagery. 

The project entails 620 linear miles along the Southeastern U.S. Coastline with a
500-meter corridor following the coastline.    The project acquisition began in late April, 2010 and all final deliverables will be completed by the end of August 2010.

Contact Information:

Merrick
http://www.merrick.com

Alibre, the developer of the world’s most affordable, feature-rich professional 3D CAD/CAM solutions and Luxion, the leading developer of advanced rendering and lighting technology, announced today that the Luxion KeyShot 2 photo realistic lighting rendering technology will be bundled with v. 12.1 ofAlibre Design Expert and Professional 3D CAD software, priced under $500.  With Alibre Design Expert and Professional, customers will get powerful 3D modeling and 2D drafting technology with stunning realistic lighting visualization.

Real-Time Photorealistic Renderings of 3D CAD Models in Seconds
KeyShot 2 is a new application built on Luxion’s production-proven real-time interactive ray tracing lighting and global illumination technology.  KeyShot 2 makes it easy to create photographic images from 3D models with realistic lighting, giving anyone with 3D data the ability to create a photographic image in a matter of seconds, regardless of the size of the digital model. KeyShot 2 delivers amazing real-time “shots” without the need for special graphics cards.

Alibre Design Expert and Professional v. 12.1 also offer the new BIP export format specifically designed for KeyShot 2.  In addition, Alibre Design Expert and Professional v. 12.1 also takes advantage of the new capabilities in KeyShot 2 by taking 3D data and exporting it directly into Luxion’s native format for cleaner, easier and faster 3D rendered models and amazing shots.

According to J. Paul Grayson, CEO of Alibre, “The combination of Alibre Design and Keyshot 2 enables our customers to create and render images that are indistinguishable from professional photographs of actual physical products. This means that they can show their customers how a product will look prior to incurring the expense of actually creating a physical prototype, thereby saving thousands of dollars and increasing sales by showing a compelling representation of the final product.”

“KeyShot 2 is the next generation of photorealistic real-time rendering,” said Max Freeman, VP of Marketing, Alibre Inc. “Alibre Design and KeyShot 2 is the complete end-to-end solution for our customers, combining extreme ease-of-use, a high level of capabilities, and native BIP export.”

Contact Information:

Alibre, Luxion
http://www.alibre.com

Photo Science is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase the assets of HJW Geospatial (Oakland, CA).  “This agreement directly supports Photo Science’s ongoing growth strategy centered on services diversification and geographic expansion,” stated Mike Ritchie, President and CEO.  “With the recent establishment of our Colorado Springs location and the addition of our new Oakland facility, Photo Science is positioned to more effectively serve our national client base.”

In addition to enhanced client support, this agreement increases the firm’s flight
operations capacity to 10 aircraft.  With operations staging from this new location, Photo Science is able to more efficiently support our client’s acquisition requirements.  Photo Science is now operating four large-format frame cameras that include both Z/I DMC and Vexcel UtlraCam X sensors.

Founded in 1974, Photo Science is a professional services provider with a proud record of performance delivering innovative geospatial solutions to federal, state,
local, and private sector markets.  Headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, Photo Science employs 200 geospatial professionals operating from nine facilities nationwide.  Photo Science specializes in: systems integration and development; aerial imagery & LiDAR acquisition; remote sensing; and geospatial analysis.

Contact Information:

Photo Science
http://www.photoscience.com

Leica Geosystems announces the opening of its first "Solutions Center, "a state-of the-art factory retail facility designed to support the construction, surveying and engineering community throughout Georgia.

This new facility will offer:

• Superior products and technical service with manufacturer’s direct resources
• Full repair capabilities on any major brand of measuring equipment.
• A large pool of rental instruments for short-term projects
• Stock of full range of field supplies
• Local product training and seminars
• All products at everyday competitive prices

According to Craig Martin, General Manager, US East at Leica Geosystems, "From paint and flagging, safety supplies, total stations and GPS systems for surveying, construction lasers and building layout systems, we are here to fulfill our customers everyday needs with outstanding service and support. At the Leica Geosystems Solutions Center in Duluth, knowledgeable salespeople are available to help customers learn about the latest technology from Leica Geosystems and test-drive any of the current Leica Geosystems products. I am confident our first store is going to be a favorite destination for members of the construction and surveying community in Georgia".

Ken Mooyman, President, says "The Leica Geosystems Solutions Center concept was created with the local customer’s needs in mind. These nine new brick and mortar Solutions Center locations will help strengthen our current channels to market in specific geographic areas. Across North America, our Solutions Centers will combine with our powerful independent Leica Geosystems distributors and direct sales people to covering most major local markets and surrounding areas. The Allen Precision Equipment catalog will continue to reach thousands of customers across America who may not have a local distributor nearby. These four channels give our customers full access to all our services and products no matter where they are located".

Leica Geosystems’ network of service and product distribution centers provide customers with a local presence and national reach with access to global resources.

Contact Information:

Leica Geosystems
http://www.leica-geosystems.com

Brent Jones and Curt Sumner announced that ESRI and ACSM will hold a joint
conference in San Diego starting in 2011. They have signed a 3-year agreement to build on ESRI’s Survey and Engineering GIS Summit and ACSM's annual conference.

The Survey Summit will include technical sessions, presentations, and a manufacturer expo. The goal is to bring together GIS users with individuals from the surveying and engineering community to foster education and collaboration and to cultivate new business opportunities for everyone. TheSurveySummit.com will be live soon.

Pointools, the laser scanning data processing software specialist, has released the latest version of Pointools 4 Rhino. Delivering industry leading point cloud display technology into Rhinoceros 3D modelling software means that designers can visualise their designs within a real world context. Pointools allows 3D models to be created from the millions of 3D measurements collected by laser scanning devices.

“Designers cannot work in isolation,” commented Tony Rogers, co-founder and Director of Pointools Ltd, “they need to consider designs in their true context and be able to communicate essential components of their work to other parties involved in the product or project life cycle. By incorporating laser scanned data within the design environment Pointools 4 Rhino adds real world detail, improving visualisations and contributing an essential sense of place to the design process.”

Rhinoceros 3D is a standalone modelling tool developed by Robert McNeel & Associates and commonly used for industrial, marine, jewellery, graphic and automotive design as well as architecture, CAD / CAM, rapid prototyping, reverse engineering and multimedia. Pointools 4 Rhino enables users to benefit from Rhino’s powerful design toolset within a point cloud context and is ideal for visualising, modelling and drawing.

Working with 100’s of millions of laser points Rhino users can now utilise different point shading settings in each viewport to optimise each view.  Rapid viewport sections allow the user to easily make any orthographic view into a section view, choose its thickness and dynamically update its position by grabbing the section in another viewport.  The Pointools plug also enables the construction plane to be linked to the section view so the user is always drawing in the right place.  Also included are powerful region tools for selection and manipulation of the data providing a fast easy way to view only the data required.

Pointools is an independent technology company focussed on developing state of the art software solutions to maximise the potential of point cloud data – the millions of 3D measurements usually collected by laser scanning devices. With applications in a wide range of markets including design, manufacturing, construction, engineering, heritage and surveying to name but a few the Pointools software portfolio includes the market leading manufacturer independent point cloud visualisation and presentation solution.

The Pointools product suite includes Pointools Edit, Pointools View Pro, Pointools 4 Rhino, Pointools Model and Pointools Vortex API – recently selected by Bentley as the engine for their portfolio of solutions including Bentley MicroStation.  

Contact Information:

Pointools
http://www.pointools.com

MAPPS, a national association of mapping and geospatial firms, applauded the inclusion of a parcel geocoding provision providing for an 'early warning system' in the Financial Regulatory Reform legislation that President Obama signed today.
Section 1094 of the Conference Report calls for the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection to collect the "parcel number that corresponds ... [to] ... real property pledged or proposed to be pledged as collateral" to help track the number and dollar amount of mortgage loans and completed applications grouped according to measurements such as parcel level data.

The comprehensive legislation makes amendments to the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA), including a provision for the newly-created Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection within the Federal Reserve to collect the "parcel number to permit geocoding" on mortgage transactions.

MAPPS Executive Director John Palatiello said, "The provision employing geospatial technology at the parcel level under HMDA provides much more detailed information for an 'early warning system' to identify future anomalies in the mortgage market. It contains information about the value, improvements, taxes, and something that none of the current government mortgage datasets, including HMDA, maintain - the physical location of the property," Palatiello said.

MAPPS Cadastre Task Force Chair Susan Marlow (Smart Data Strategies, Franklin, TN) testified before Congress on the benefits of parcel level data in September 2009 saying, "Many analysis and decisions are being made using the wrong level of geography. The Census tract data that is currently being used under Section 2803 of HMDA was created by forming blocks and tracts that were logical for counting people." She went on to say, "While FedEx can track the location of millions of packages per day moving around the world, the Federal government does not track the location of land, and it is stationary."

"If you have the right tools and the right data in place, you can build predictive models using very basic statistical analysis that accurately forecasts and locates foreclosure and delinquency hotspots, thus providing an early warning system," said MAPPS President Jeff Lovin (Woolpert, Dayton, OH).

Palatiello concluded, "MAPPS supported the inclusion of the geospatial language in the Conference Report because an 'early warning system' based on geo-located property data at the parcel level will help prevent future disruptions to the market, financial collapses, and government bailouts."

Contact Information:

MAPPS
http://www.mapps.org

Topcon Corporation announces the promotion of Ray O’Connor to managing executive officer. O’Connor is president and CEO of Topcon Positioning Systems, based in Livermore, Calif., and chairman of the board of Topcon Europe Positioning. He will continue to fill these and other positions within the corporation.

“In the difficult global financial environment of the past several years, Ray has proven that sound business management combined with strategically aggressive initiatives will deliver positive results even in one of the hardest hit industries – construction,” said Takashi Yokokura, president of Topcon Corporation.

“Under his leadership, our positioning business in the Americas, Australia and Europe has dramatically exceeded our financial expectations.”

In addition to leading Topcon’s efforts in its core markets of construction, surveying and civil engineering, O’Connor has also provided the guidance for Topcon’s entry into the global precision agricultural industry, mobile mapping, telematics, high-speed precision earthmoving, and OEM expansion. O’Connor has been instrumental in the successful consolidation of Topcon and Sokkia in the survey market.

“It is an honor to receive this recognition,” O’Connor said, “but I take the most pride in how our team worked cohesively and aggressively to assure every opportunity for growth during the recession while increasing our technology and market foundation for the future.”

O’Connor joined Topcon in 1993 as the North America sales manager for construction lasers. By 1995, he had guided the company through the acquisition of Advance Grade Technologies and formed a separate division, Topcon Laser Systems. In 2000, he led Topcon’s acquisition of JPS to bring Topcon the basis of its world-leading GPS technologies. Then in 2001, he managed the formations of Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) that consolidated all of Topcon’s construction and survey business in the Americas.

In 2002 he was promoted to president of TPS, and was appointed chairman of the board of Topcon Europe Positioning in 2005. He was a Toshiba Corporation businessperson of the year in 2005, the first person of non-Japanese descent to receive the honor.

Currently, under O’Connor’s direction, TPS has more than 850 employees on five continents.

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

Dr. Charles Ghilani, Professor of Engineering at Pennsylvania State University-Wilkes-Barre, and newly elected President of the Surveying and Geomatics Educators Society (SaGES), announced the formation of this society, which holds biennial conferences on surveying and geomatics education topics and conducts business that promotes effective teaching and learning of surveying, mapping, geomatics, and other spatially-related education.

Dr. Ghilani said, "Once we get rolling, we hope to be a leading organization for the promotion of best teaching and learning practices in geomatics education. We will work on developing an educational environment that meets the needs of industry and government and cooperates with other professional societies at every level, including international, to support geomatics education."

The North American Surveying and Mapping Educators conferences have been held since the 1930s. The society developed from business meetings held at the conclusion of the last two conferences in Big Rapids, Mich. (2007) and Johnson City, Tenn. (2009), where the consensus was to create a formal organization to sustain interest and activities on issues related to geomatics education.

At the July 2009 meeting, by-laws were adopted which were ratified by vote of the 2007 and 2009 attendees.  Nominations for officers and voting were conducted in time for officers and board members to take office on January 1, 2010. The elected board members are Tom Seybert, Bill Hazelton, Jim Crossfield and Bob Burtch. Officers elected in addition to Ghilani include Steve Johnson, President-elect, Joe Paiva, Secretary, and Rich Vannozzi, Treasurer.

"We're still organizing, and would like to invite all who are engaged in full-time or part-time teaching of geomatics subjects as well as those with a strong interest in geomatics education to join us." said Ghilani.

The XXIII conference on surveying and geomatics education is scheduled to be held June 8 - 11, 2011 at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez.

About SaGES
SaGES is intended to be a forum that creates opportunities for academia, industry, and government to collaborate, exchange ideas, promote common causes, and develop ways to improve geomatics teaching and learning.  Interested parties may contact Joe Paiva to be placed on the membership roster.

Contact Information:

SaGES
http://surveying.wb.psu.edu/sages

Vexcel Imaging GmbH, a Microsoft company, will roll out version 2.1 of its UltraMap 2.1 and UltraMap/AT photogrammetric software to customers  beginning July 19, 2010. These releases continue the tradition of providing a flexible and scalable distributed system for managing and processing vast amounts of UltraCam data.

UltraMap 2.1 and UltraMap/AT 2.1 include many new capabilities to enable customers to process projects even faster and better than previously possible, and with a higher level of automation. Project-based color balancing, 1-click system reports, and level-2 quality visualization are examples of key new capabilities in UltraMap 2.1."

Other key new major features of UltraMap 2.1 include:

• Framework now offers “One-click” system report generation for any local UltraMap node and the complete UltraMap system.
• Raw Data Center now offers the option to format a data unit; the option to check unverified raw data on a data unit; generation of Level-2 quality information for each image to be visualized by the UltraMap Viewer; and generation of a Level-2 quality xml file for each image.
• Radiometry now offers automated quick view generation; fully integrated project-based color balancing based on automatically extracted parameters during AT; clipping visualization; and the option to specify the output range (min/max).
• Viewer now offers Level-2 quality visualization; text overlays for shot position; and a new viewer with DFI stand-alone support.

UltraMap/AT 2.1 now offers text overlays for ground control points; vector residual overlays; tie point merger; automated blunder removal during bundle adjustment; a detailed AT report; integrated data extraction for project-based color balancing; and PAT-B bundle result export.

UltraMap includes features for managing data download, distributed processing using load balancing and resource management, aerial triangulation, and interactive data visualization for quality control. Use of Microsoft’s Dragonfly technology enables incredibly smooth and high-resolution image browsing and zooming for very large sets of data content. Dragonfly supports multi-channel 16-bit UltraCam imagery for high quality visualization within the complete photogrammetric workflow.

“I am proud of the accomplishment this product release represents for the Vexcel Imaging team,” notes Alexander Wiechert, Business Director of Microsoft and Managing Director for Vexcel Imaging GmbH. “It supports our customers’ businesses by enabling easier, faster image processing and more automation than ever before.

Contact Information:

Vexcel Imaging GmbH
http://www.microsoft.com/ultracam/en-us/default.aspx

Microsoft Research’s WorldWide Telescope brings together more than 13,000 high-resolution images taken by a range of NASA’s Mars spacecraft, including the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The result: the only 3D experience of the Red Planet. Take the tour at their website. For best results, you'll need to download their free Windows client, but you can also take a tour using the slower web client. Prepare to be astounded! (Photo credit: NASA)

MAPPS, the association of private geospatial firms, has announced that it will host its fourth annual Geospatial Products and Services Excellence Awards competition, recognizing the professionalism, value, integrity and achievement that member firms have demonstrated in their projects and technology developments over the previous year.

"The Awards Program is an opportunity for MAPPS member firms to showcase the high-quality work that is being performed in the geospatial community," said John Palatiello, MAPPS Executive Director. "The awards program demonstrates the cutting edge technology and professional expertise that MAPPS member firms implement in projects serving their clients."

The award recipients will be announced and recognized on Wednesday, November 17 as part of the MAPPS Fall Policy Conference and in cooperation with the ASPRS/CaGIS Fall Specialty Conference in Orlando, FL.
 
The Geospatial Products and Services Excellence Awards program has six categories: airborne and satellite data acquisition; photogrammetry/elevation data generation; remote sensing; GIS/IT; small projects; and technology innovation. A Grand Award will be selected from the six category winners to represent the MAPPS Project of the Year.

In 2009, the MAPPS Project of the Year was awarded to Merrick & Company (Aurora, CO) for their "Levee Recertification Using Geospatial Technologies" project. Conducted for the City of Wichita Kansas, Department of Public Works, the project gathered and processed data for one of the first levee recertification projects in the U.S. as part of the Federal Emergency  Management Agency (FEMA) 2005 mandate following Hurricane Katrina. The Merrick team collected over 1,000 square miles of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and digital aerial imagery, with the specific area of the project being a 33-mile stretch of the Arkansas River that consisted of levees, floodways, improved channels, and control structures. The mapping project involved LiDAR data collection, color digital aerial imagery and elevation data collection.

The 2009 category winners were Intermap Technologies for "Intermap Technologies Completes NEXTMap Europe" in Airborne and Satellite Data Acquisition; Photo Science "Spatial Data Interoperability at the Florida Department of Transportation" in GIS/IT; Kappa Mapping, Inc. "Color Infrared Imagery Makes Accurate Vernal Pool Mapping Possible in Bar Harbor, Maine" in Small Projects; Optech Technologies "New Product Introduction in Hardware: ALTM Oriom" in Technology Innovation; and Merrick & Company in the Photogrammetry/Elevation Data Generation category.

The 2010 contest is open to all MAPPS Regular and Associate Member firms. The deadline for submitting entries is August 31, 2010.

Contact Information:

MAPPS
http://www.mapps.org

Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) announces that Blue Marble Desktop software will be licensed as part of Topcon’s IP-S2 Mobile Mapping System. The announcement follows a partnership agreement between Topcon and Blue Marble Geographics, a leading provider of LiDAR and GIS data conversion solutions.

Blue Marble Desktop is a geospatial data management platform that will allow Topcon IP-S2 users to convert data and work in a variety of applications through a single interface. The software is designed to allow users to work off the same geodetic data source within their organization, regardless of location, for data manipulation and management.

Topcon’s IP-S2 is a vehicle-mounted, mobile 3D precision mapping and survey solution that incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, including high-precision GNSS receivers, IMU (inertial measurement unit), vehicle wheel encoders, 360-degree digital camera and laser scanners. The IP-S2 is designed so users can collect precise vehicle position/bearing data and capture spherical imagery of roadway objects such as sidewalks, buildings, tunnels, bridges and overpasses while driving the system-mounted vehicle at normal traffic speeds.

Eduardo Falcon, TPS senior vice president of the Topcon Emerging Business Unit, said, “By partnering with Blue Marble Geographics, we are giving IP-S2 users an added advantage of translating, integrating and sharing data seamlessly between formats and within their organization, and that will allow for quicker and more efficient use of the precise data they have collected. Our goal is to ultimately simplify the work and increase the capabilities of the IP-S2 user.”

Patrick Cunningham, president of Blue Marble Geographics, said, “Topcon turned to Blue Marble software for our unmatched LAS file point cloud handling capabilities. They put our software to the test and we delivered. The partnership with Topcon (for their IP-S2 system) exemplifies where we see our software best applied – systems and solutions revolutionizing GIS.”

The software available to Topcon’s IP-S2 customers includes Blue Marble’s Geographic Calculator module (Blue Marble Desktop version), a coordinate conversion tool with advanced vector and LiDAR file processing capabilities designed so users can effectively manage and process large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. Geographic Calculator also provides users with an ArcGIS extension that extends the coordinate transformation capabilities of ESRI software.

Other modules, which may be sublicensed by IP-S2 customers, include Geographic Transformer and Spatial Connect. Geographic Transformer is an image reprojection and raster management tool that allows users to process large image datasets. Spatial Connect allows users to interface directly with spatial databases.

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

TerraGo Technologies, a leading provider of geospatial collaboration software solutions, announced the general availability of TerraGo 3D Composer, which enables users to publish portable, actionable 3D GeoPDF maps and imagery from various elevation data sources. TerraGo has also released a new version of the free TerraGo Toolbar, which gives users the power to view and interact with 3D GeoPDF files. TerraGo will demonstrate the new solutions at the ESRI International User Conference in San Diego this week.

Developed in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Defense and currently in use with several government agencies, TerraGo 3D Composer gives GIS experts the ability to extend the value and application of their extensive libraries of elevation data. The new TerraGo Toolbar provides users, even those with no geospatial training, access to mission-critical data as easy-to-use GeoPDF files. With TerraGo 3D GeoPDF files, users can view geographic coordinates, measure length and distance, and geo-locate a point on the 3D map.

“Traditionally, the sharing of Lidar data has been hindered by extremely large file sizes and complex viewers required to navigate and analyze the data,” said Chris Watson, vice president of marketing and business development for TerraGo. “Now, with TerraGo 3D GeoPDF files, organizations are able to provide easy access to highly compressed, interactive PDF-based maps and imagery that maintain the integrity of the data while being portable and actionable.”

As the inventor of GeoPDF maps, TerraGo has a strong record of accomplishment helping organizations provide non-GIS users with access to complex GIS data through a simple, easy-to-use, easy-to-access format. With the invention of the 3D GeoPDF file, TerraGo extends that value proposition further to those government agencies and private sector companies that require access to 3D data in the field for better situational awareness and improved decision-making.

Key features of TerraGo 3D Composer include the following:

• With TerraGo 3D Composer software, users can convert output from industry standard GIS visualization products to 3D GeoPDF files using both LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) point clouds and other traditional DEM data.
• TerraGo 3D Composer enables users to convert existing 3D PDF models created from other 3D production software to geo-registered 3D GeoPDF maps, which can then be used for coordinate display and measurement in Adobe Reader.
• TerraGo 3D GeoPDF maps created through the software contain geographic coordinates dynamically displayed in the document in addition to elevation data. The files can contain layers that have color and transparency for easy analysis.
• TerraGo 3D Composer uses advanced technology to create high-quality compressed files that can be easily distributed and shared with non-technical geospatial consumers.

TerraGo GeoPDF maps and imagery are the standard across defense and intelligence, civilian government, and commercial organizations for enabling both technical GIS users and non-GIS savvy personnel to distribute, reference, enhance and share geospatial information.

Organizations such as the U.S. Army, the U.S. Geological Survey, FEMA and many other organizations create, use and disseminate GeoPDF maps in support of critical operations around the world. The 3D GeoPDF solution is the latest geospatial innovation from TerraGo that extends the access and application of maps and imagery throughout organizations’ entire enterprises and enables multiple organizations to easily share valuable geospatial intelligence.

Contact Information:

TerraGo Technologies
http://www.terragotech.com

Juniper Systems, Inc. announces the new Mesa Rugged Notepad as the latest addition to its complete lineup of rugged handheld computers. The Mesa provides a unique platform for dedicated field data collection applications that can withstand
the most extreme outdoor environments. Availability is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2010.

“The Mesa has all the advantages of a handheld, plus the advantages of a tablet PC, without the disadvantages of either,” said David Dean, President of Electronic
Data Solutions. The Mesa is the world’s first Juniper Rugged™ notepad, featuring the biggest screen available on a Windows Mobile® rugged handheld computer. In addition to the large 5.7 inch active viewing display, the Mesa is compact and lightweight, providing the comfortable feel of a handheld.  

The Mesa Rugged Notepad is available in three models: Standard, Geo, & Geo 3G. The Standard Mesa features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technology, while the Geo model adds 2-5 meter accuracy GPS and a 3.2MP camera enhanced with Juniper Geotagging™ (the ability to embed and emboss photos with date, time and GPS position). The Geo 3G model includes camera, GPS, and a 3G GSM data modem for increased speed and connectivity capabilities. The Mesa will be available in U.S. and International versions of each model.

Like other Juniper Systems rugged handheld computers, the Mesa is built to survive the toughest environments. It is rated IP67, making it fully waterproof and
dustproof, and tested to MIL-STD-810G for water, humidity, sand and dust, vibration, altitude, shock, and temperature. Its rugged magnesium and plastic chassis protects the Mesa from up to four foot drops onto concrete.

Unique to the Mesa is its one-of-a-kind Juniper Systems home screen. This customizable home screen puts the most-used device functions in a finger-friendly on-screen dashboard. Features include user-defined shortcuts and 11 screen gadgets for controlling wireless connections, GPS, texting, email, calendar, and power functions.

Juniper Systems, Inc. seeks to establish strong relationships with companies that offer total solutions to industries with mobile computing needs. Information about
becoming a Juniper Systems Business Partner, along with more information on the
Mesa Rugged Notepad, can be found online at www.junipersys.com.

Contact Information:

Juniper Systems
http://www.junipersys.com

Trimble introduced today a new version of its Trimble Field Inspector solution
for utility infrastructure and smart grid asset maintenance and inspection. The
solution is comprised of the Trimble Field Inspector software for handheld
computers and Trimble Field Inspector Desktop software. Scalable and easy to
deploy, the solution leverages Trimble Global Positioning System (GPS) and
handheld computing technology to automate a wide variety of field applications
for electric, gas, water, and wastewater utilities—from smart meter deployments
to routine asset maintenance inspections. 

The announcement was made at the ESRI International User Conference.

Trimble Field Inspector software for handhelds provides a robust GPS-enabled mobile solution for optimizing smart grid and utility field operations, including asset installation, maintenance, and inspection.

Using Trimble mapping and Geographic Information System (GIS) handheld devices, the software allows utility field workers to capture GPS time and location information along with 1D and 2D barcode data, digital images, digital sketches and electronic signatures. The GPS data can be used to route jobs, locate workers and assets, and provide a valuable validation of where and when work is performed to support regulatory reporting. 

Whether performing electric, gas, water, or wastewater maintenance inspection tasks, the Trimble Field Inspector software helps streamline operations with automated field workflows, easy-to-use smart handheld data collection forms, and the ability to interactively view jobs and assets using a map display. Through a single listing of all jobs and their status, users can quickly and easily locate and identify job assignments and priorities.

By putting utility maintenance inspection technology directly in the hands of the mobile workforce, Trimble Field Inspector allows field crews to complete their work faster and more accurately, enhancing utility service quality, improving system reliability, and reducing cost.

Trimble Field Inspector Desktop software leverages existing GIS, asset, and work management databases and workflows to deliver a complete end-to-end handheld maintenance inspection solution for field workers.

The desktop software can connect to an existing ESRI ArcGIS or Open Database Compliant (ODBC) back office system, Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) utility database or the Trimble UtilityCenter Maintenance-2 module. Field maintenance tasks can be defined, grouped together as jobs, scheduled, assigned, and automatically transferred to handheld computers running the Trimble Field Inspector software.

Utility field workers can then perform maintenance tasks using the predefined workflows and easy-to-use smart data entry forms. Field captured data is then returned to the utility’s existing back office GIS, CMMS database or Trimble UtilityCenter Maintenance-2 module to update and track utility and smart grid field asset maintenance work status and history.

The Trimble Field Inspector solution is expected to be available in August 2010 through Trimble’s Utilities Field Solutions group. For more information about Trimble Field Inspector solution, visit:  www.trimble.com/fieldinspector.shtml.

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://www.trimble.com/fieldinspector.shtml

MAPPS , the national association of private sector geospatial firms, has sent a letter opposing proposed legislative language that would limit the use of "precise geolocation information".

The association said a draft bill, proposed to be introduced by Representative Rick Boucher (D-VA), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet, threatens data collection, applications and growth in the private geospatial profession.

The draft bill is intended to protect consumers' privacy by requiring "notice to and consent of an individual prior to the collection and disclosure of certain personal information relating to that individual." However, language included in the bill is a concern to the collection of geospatial data and geospatial lines of business through its provision limiting the collection of "precise geolocation information".

MAPPS believes the current bill language threatens information that is collected by private and government entities to perform E-911 and emergency response management, environmental protection, home security, mortgage foreclosure monitoring/early warning system and many other tasks that are conducted by geospatial professionals.

"The intent of the bill drafted by Rep. Boucher - to protect personal privacy - is laudable, but in its current form, the provisions would result in a number of unintended consequences by severely limiting information collected by the geospatial community for government agencies, to support government programs, and to provide for commercial applications that consumers are demanding in the marketplace," said Jeff Lovin, MAPPS President (Woolpert, Inc., Dayton, OH).

The current draft exempts government agencies from its limitations.  MAPPS urged Rep. Boucher to more clearly define the term "precise geolocation information", exempt data collected by private sector firms under contract to government or for sale to government agencies, and exempt private individuals who are already regulated and licensed to practice by State licensing boards, as well as exempt commercial satellite remote sensing firms that are licensed to operate by the Federal Government.

Contact Information:

MAPPS
http://www.mapps.org

Leica Geosystems announced that the first ever 3D survey of Mt. Rushmore National Memorial has been successfully completed using its scanners and software. The work was preformed by CyArk, a non-profit organization whose mission is to digitally preserve cultural heritage sites by laser scanning, digital modeling, and other state-of-the-art technologies, in partnership with the National Park Service, Historic Scotland, and the Glasgow School of Art.

Leica Geosystems was the provider of laser scanning technology for the project. In all, five Leica Geosystems scanners were used, simultaneously, by three different teams. “This was the most complex project ever undertaken by CyArk, “ says Project Manager Justin Barton, “Three different Leica Geosystems laser scanners were used: the ScanStation 2, the HDS6100, and the ScanStation C10. Each model was strategically placed within the site to take advantage of individual strengths. For example, the robust long-range capabilities of the ScanStation 2 were used along the base of the mountain, the unsurpassed speed of the 6100 was used for very dense data capture of facial details and the surrounding canyon, and the impressive range and speed of the C10 made it the workhorse atop the mountain for large-scale scans of the sculpture.”

In all, billions of millimetrically-accurate points were captured, along with more than 7,000 photographs. Data from all scanners was processed by Leica’s Cyclone software, in a command center that managed over ten terabytes of hard drive space. Data was compiled and registered continuously, to ensure that no vital areas were missed and that field teams had up-to-date data when planning each day’s work. Cyclone was also used to present point cloud data to visitors and park officials during the two weeks the teams were on site.

“We believe our portfolio of scanning hardware and software is the most powerful and versatile scanning solution now available,” said Michael Harvey, Product Marketing Manager – Scanning at Leica Geosystems, “The Mount Rushmore project, which generated massive amounts of precise data in a short time frame, is a good example of what our tools can accomplish.”

“Thanks to the efforts of all team members, the project was a huge success,” says CyArk Director of Projects and Development, Elizabeth Lee, “In spite of snow and rain, well over 200 scans were collected in two-week period on site. This digital record of the sculpture and park grounds will serve the ongoing preservation efforts of the National Park Service, and the 3D content created from the scan data will be used to create interactive virtual models of the monument, including virtual tours of the entire site and 3D educational games.”

“We are very grateful for the support and expertise that Leica Geosystems contributed to this project,” says Lee, “We had a limited time to operate, extreme weather during the project, and we had scanners placed on the vertical faces of the memorial, sometimes deployed upside-down or in exposed situations. The equipment never failed, and the support we received was priceless.”

The Rushmore project is part of the CyArk 500 initiative, a global effort to digitally preserve 500 of the world’s most important heritage sites. Leica Geosystems is proud to be part of this important effort to preserve the world’s most important historic sites.

Contact Information:

Leica Geosystems
http://www.leica-geosystems.com

Congratulations go out to Ralph O. Clements, L.S., the July winner of our photo contest. Ralph works for Gay and Neel, Inc. in Christiansburg, VA. The winning photo captures his daughter Julianne, age six, trying out a classic Gurley transit on Ft. Lewis Mountain in Roanoke County, VA. Are we seeing a member of the third
generation of Clement surveyors? See the full-size picture and read the story behind the photo on the photo contest page of our website.

Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) has announced an addition to its offering of high-accuracy, mobile mapping solutions – the IP-S2 HD Mapping System – a vehicle-mounted surveying and mapping system featuring a high-definition LiDAR scanner from Velodyne Lidar, Inc.

The IP-S2 HD Mapping System incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, including high-precision GNSS receivers, IMU (inertial measurement unit), vehicle wheel encoder, 360-degree digital cameras and Velodyne’s HDL-64E S2.2 LiDAR scanner. It is designed so users, while driving the system-mounted vehicle at normal traffic speeds, can collect precise vehicle position/bearing data and spherical imagery of roadside objects such as sidewalks, buildings, tunnels, bridges and overpasses. The addition of Velodyne’s LiDAR sensor is designed to allow vehicle operators to acquire very dense point clouds while traveling at posted speed limits even in inclement weather.

Velodyne Lidar, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high definition LiDAR sensors, headquartered in Morgan Hill, California. The company’s HDL-64E sensor is used in a variety of military and commercial autonomous vehicle applications as well as 3-D mapping, surveying and other applications.

“Velodyne is very excited that Topcon has integrated our HDL-64E S2.2 sensor with the IP-S2 HD Mapping System,” said Bruce Hall, president of Velodyne. “With the HDL-64E’s dense point coverage which outputs at over 1.3 million points per second, 64 lasers, full 360 degree field of view, and road-tested design, the system can collect data even in poor weather conditions. The IP-S2 HD Mapping System can capture data at highway speeds up to 70 miles per hour and its return on investment, compared to manual data collection methods, is realized in just a few months.”

Dave Henderson, TPS 3D mobile mapping national sales manager said, “With the IP-S2 HD, a single crew with a single user-supplied vehicle can acquire a complete dataset while driving, providing a revolutionary mobile data collection solution. Geo-referenced spatial data and colorful imagery allows users to easily identify features, assign attributes and export data to various CAD and GIS applications.

"The IP-S2 HD significantly increases safety by eliminating the risk of working in busy streets and highways, and allows for more coverage and increased productivity compared to traditional methods.  Users gain additional cost savings as the initial dataset can be accessed as frequently as needed and features can be extracted at any time, eliminating time-consuming returns to the field," Henderson said.

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

The eleventh International LiDAR Mapping Forum is now accepting abstract submissions for its three day technical conference.  ILMF 2011 will be held in New Orleans on February 7-9, 2011 and will welcome speakers from the international LIDAR community who will report on latest technology advances and recent projects, highlighting actual experiences and lessons learned.  

Authors wishing to submit a paper for the conference are requested to submit an abstract of no more than 250 words.

The following topics should act as a guideline:

Data Acquisition - Airborne LIDAR
• Acquisition systems, imagery and complementary sensors and best practices; urban, rural, transmission line scanning; pipeline mapping

Data Acquisition - Bathymetric LIDAR
• Acquisition and imaging systems and best practices for the flood plain and coastal bathymetry sectors

Data Acquisition - Emergency Response
• Fault detection for geologic surveys; pre- and post earthquake mapping; quantifying and analyzing volcanic ash clouds

Data Fusion & Processing Technologies
• Geospatial data capture, processing, analysis, management, archiving and retrieval; improving operational excellence; processing mobile imagery; quality control analysis

Developments in GIS & Data Modeling
• 3D visualization, integration with photo-imagery, urban modelling; remote access and processing of LIDAR data

Industry Issues
• Federal and individual State initiatives; operating and GIS standards, quality and productivity issues; recruitment/training issues

Mobile Mapping & Survey
• Data acquisition; vehicle-based high speed mapping systems; operational practices and data management

Recent Project Examples
• LIDAR customers and service providers reporting on experiences in all areas of LIDAR and Mobile Mapping, on commercial, Federal and State funded projects, developments and in new or emerging markets

Systems Integration
• Advances in data capture, data processing and improved operations efficiency

Trends and New Technology Developments
• Advances in LIDAR waveform processing and other technology developments, applications and operational practices

The deadline for submitting a paper is Wednesday September 15, 2010.

Contact Information:

ILMF
http://www.lidarmap.org/conference/submit_papers.aspx

More than 150 organizations were selected from approximately 300,000 to receive a Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award  in a special ceremony today at the 30th Annual Esri International User Conference (Esri UC). The winning organizations received this honor for their vision, leadership, hard work, and innovative use of Esri's geographic information system (GIS) technology.

"We created the Special Achievement in GIS Award to recognize our users' extraordinary contributions to global society," says Esri president Jack Dangermond. "Each year, I look forward to being part of this ceremony; it's a tradition that has gained great meaning and importance for professionals in the GIS industry."

GIS combines computer hardware; software; data; and, most importantly, people to collect, manage, and analyze geographic information. Virtually any information can be linked to a geographic location, helping people see that information as part of a complete picture. With GIS, users can view relationships, processes, patterns, and trends in the form of maps, globes, reports, and charts. Whether they are responding to a natural disaster, growing a business, or sharing information with the public, GIS helps them solve problems and make smart decisions. More than one million people worldwide rely on GIS to learn and plan geographically.

The SAG Award ceremony was held at the San Diego Convention Center and presided over by Dangermond. Thousands of SAG Award nominations are submitted by Esri staff every year, then personally reviewed and selected by Dangermond.

Organizations being honored at the Esri UC, the world's largest GIS event, span countries and industries including agriculture, cartography, climate change, defense and intelligence, economic development, education, government, health and human services, telecommunications, and utilities.

Contact Information:

Esri
http://www.esri.com

Surveying And Mapping, Inc. (SAM, Inc.) is pleased to announce that Mike Hut has joined the firm as Aerial Mapping Department Manager. Hut brings with him 25 years of experience in business operations and technical management within the photogrammetry, aerial mapping and geospatial industries.

Hut received his BGS in Environmental Studies with a Remote Sensing Emphasis in 1985 and has extensive upper level management experience with large photogrammetry and mapping companies. He has built a strong reputation of professionalism, strategic decision-making and technical expertise.

Prior to joining SAM, Inc., Hut served as vice-president, customer and technical service for a 2,400-employee geospatial technology and services company, as well as director of sales for an established geospatial technology firm in the Midwest.

As Aerial Mapping Department Manager, Hut will help the SAM, Inc. team continue to deliver large-scale projects effectively and efficiently, while maintaining the company’s high quality control standards to ensure the utmost productivity of the department.

“We are pleased to have Mike as part of our team,” said Samir Hanna, President, SAM, Inc. “His leadership and expertise in photogrammetry, aerial mapping and geospatial industries combined with his operational experience will enable us to provide our clients greater efficiency through streamlined project management and higher-quality deliverables, which continue to make SAM, Inc. the leading provider of surveying and mapping technologies.”

Contact Information:

SAM, Inc.
http://www.saminc.biz

OpenGeo today announced that Kenneth Bossung has been appointed senior vice president of sales. With deep experience in geospatial web services, IT and systems integration professional services, Bossung brings a strong combination of sales expertise and entrepreneurial leadership to the web-based geospatial technology provider.

A former founder and partner at IONIC Enterprise, Bossung defined and led strategic sales and business development activities for the OGC web services pioneer. After IONIC’s acquisition by software leader ERDAS Inc. in 2007, Bossung led commercial sales in Canada, the US and Latin America, overseeing ERDAS partners and a direct sales force.

OpenGeo President Chris Holmes commented on Bossung’s appointment: “Ken comes to OpenGeo with an incredible track record and a deep knowledge of both our industry and the clients we serve. From a web services sales and business development perspective he has done and seen it all. We know our clients and partners will benefit from Ken’s expertise, energy and commitment.”

When asked about his new role, Bossung noted: “OpenGeo is poised for explosive growth - especially with the 2.0 release of its OpenGeo Suite Enterprise Edition. The Suite is the first geospatial web-mapping solution to offer unlimited support on a complete open source mapping stack and include PostGIS. Every sales executive wants to work with a product that defines a business category and there is nothing on the market for large-scale geospatial mapping projects that comes close to the OpenGeo Suite.”

Prior to his time at IONIC, Bossung served as director of business development for KSolutions, Inc., a knowledge management software and services company. He also served as director of sales at Align360, a division of Renaissance Worldwide, Inc., an information and technology solutions and services company. Bossung has a degree from the University of Kentucky in civil engineering and was a recipient of the Presidents Award at Renaissance Worldwide two years in a row.

Contact Information:

OpenGeo
http://www.OpenGeo.com

The Rocky Mountain Supercomputing Centers, Inc. (RMSC) is collaborating with the world’s leading GIS software company, ESRI, to leverage the HPC Cloud paradigm in real-world geospatial applications. RMSC is a leading provider of High Performance Computing (HPC) Cloud technology, which offers significant advantages in scalability, performance and pricing over other cloud platforms.

“The cloud computing paradigm is the future of GIS,” said Earl J. Dodd, RMSC Executive Director. “HPC Cloud technology has the potential to scale-up GIS software and boost its volumetrics to solve geospatial data processing challenges much faster than previously possible.”

Under the collaborative agreement with ESRI, RMSC is running ESRI ArcGIS 10 software in a dynamic HPC Cloud environment to evaluate processing capacity of existing models and expand ArcGIS throughput and performance capabilities for advanced geospatial projects. Some of these GIS modeling and simulation applications require processing terabytes of data in (near) real-time. RMSC will examine a variety of techniques and configurations that make it possible to scale-up ArcGIS 10 and maximize its performance in the HPC Cloud.

 “ESRI’s collaboration with the Rocky Mountain Supercomputing Centers allows us to efficiently and quickly determine areas to address when customers with advanced GIS needs migrate to the HPC Cloud,” said S.J. Camarata, ESRI Director, Corporate Strategy. “Having the ability to stress and run the most advanced GIS models and visualization at RMSC will truly deliver on our message that ArcGIS 10 transforms the way people use GIS.”

“The Elastic Compute Cloud has been applied to some GIS applications,” explained Dodd. “But the HPC Cloud that RMSC has created can significantly reduce processing time with expanded model sizes, especially in critical geospatial applications such as 3D modeling, visualization and simulation supporting national security, emergency management and policy decision support.”

A non-profit Montana corporation, RMSC is a public-private partnership involving the State of Montana, IBM, Microsoft, Adaptive Computing and NextIO. RMSC was created with the goal of driving local and regional economic development by making on-demand supercomputing available to commercial businesses (especially small- to medium-sized businesses), government agencies, academic institutions and tribal enterprises. RMSC offers Supercomputing Platforms as a Service (SPaaS) and professional expertise to help eliminate barriers of use when moving into the HPC Cloud.

Opening its doors in July 2009, RMSC applies its particular type of cloud computing to applications in the diverse fields of energy, agriculture, manufacturing and climate change, among others. Already, RMSC is involved in modeling complex carbon management and global food security issues for the USDA’s International Production and Assessment Division. The Center also provides 24x7 supercomputing support for weather forecasting for renewable energy resource management organizations.

Contact Information:

Rocky Mountain Supercomputing Centers, ESRI
http://www.rmscinc.org/

Esri and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency announce the formation of a strategic alliance to strengthen national geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) capabilities.

The agreement was signed in June by U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Robert B. Murrett, NGA director, and Jack Dangermond, Esri president. The alliance will provide a framework to advance the strategic goals and objectives of the National System for Geospatial Intelligence in geospatial sciences and systems and computer science.

This new strategic alliance is meant to support the strategies and goals Murrett set last year to ensure the interoperability and reliability and improve the quality of NSG products and services.

"We have successfully collaborated with the NGA for more than two decades," said Dangermond. "This new initiative will permit us to continue working together on projects that will use and improve on geospatial technology, thereby strengthening our country's national security. We are honored to partner with NGA in this important endeavor."

The mission of the NGA—which combines aspects such as technology, data, people, and policies needed to produce GEOINT—is to provide timely, relevant, and accurate geospatial intelligence to support national security. The NSG is a unified community of GEOINT experts, producers, and users organized around the goal of integrating technology, policies, capabilities, and doctrine to produce GEOINT in a multi-intelligence environment. The NGA, as the functional manager for the NSG, provides strategic thinking, guidance, and direction to the intelligence community concerning all aspects of GEOINT, from acquisition to utilization. The NGA collaborates with its mission partners to ensure that accurate and timely GEOINT is a part of decision making and operations where and when it is needed.

The agreement underscores the critical role geospatial technology plays in GEOINT within the national security community, which provides geographic information system (GIS) products, services, and analysis to intelligence officers and decision makers. GIS continues to evolve in national security. Originally restricted to technical analysts working on the desktop, the technology is now available throughout the community in Web-enabled enterprise applications.

Agencies, allies, and coalition partners increasingly rely on GIS to share geospatial data and products with one another within this worldwide network. This is increasingly important in intelligence, counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, and humanitarian operations. The GEOINT system—cloud computing, mobile environments, Web, and embedded geospatial capabilities—requires robust enterprise software that supports the global information grid. Esri's research and development in these areas provide the technical leadership needed to deliver critical geospatial support to meet these requirements of the intelligence communities' fast-paced mission.

Contact Information:

Esri, NGA
http://www.nga.mil

Smart grid technology is designed to greatly increase energy efficiency and thus reduce energy consumption and pollution. A recent report by ABI Research shows that by 2015, government and private investments in smart grid tech. will reach $45 billion. $41 billion of this will go into transmission and infrastructure and quite possibly create a source of revenue for geospatial tech. professionals. Read “Report: By 2015, $45 billion spent on smart grids” on Cnet.com.

The GIS Certification Institute’s Board of Directors today charged a committee of certified GIS Professionals (GISPs) to propose revisions to GISP certification requirements. Observing that “the geospatial industry, and the GIS profession within it, has matured considerably” since GISCI was founded in 2004, Board members unanimously endorsed a GISP Certification Update Initiative.

According to GISCI President David DiBiase, “the purpose of GISP certification is to advance the GIS profession by promoting competent and ethical professional practice. Portfolio-based certification made sense in 2004, when no authoritative specification of geospatial competencies yet existed. The Department of Labor’s recently issued Geospatial Technology Competency Model helps fill that gap, and sets the stage for serious consideration of competency-based GISP certification.”

In addition to a “new competency-based examination requirement for some or all applicants,” the Board also asked GISCI’s Certification Committee to consider other changes that “increase rigor, streamline, eliminate ambiguities, or otherwise update and improve existing certification criteria and procedures.”

GISCI’s Certification Committee will deliver to the Board a proposed GISP Certification Update plan before the end of the 2010 calendar year. Following a month-long public comment period in early 2011, the Board will decide whether to adopt, revise, or table the plan. If approved by the GISCI Board, any new certification requirements are expected to take effect three years from the date of approval.

“GISCI has certified over 4,500 GISPs,” says Executive Director Sheila Wilson. “Successful applicants submit portfolios that document substantial achievements in education, professional experience, and contributions to the profession. Many GISPs believe that an even more rigorous certification process will further enhance their standing in the geospatial field. ”



 

Contact Information:

GISCI
http://www.gisci.org

DigitalGlobe, a leading global content provider of high-resolution earth imagery
solutions, today announced the availability of its new Advanced Ortho Series of products. Consisting of the Ortho Vision and Ortho Vision Premium lines, which are based on customer aesthetics requirements, DigitalGlobe's ability to provide the best quality orthos, faster and easier than ever before is now better suited to satisfy the diversified product needs of a growing number of imagery users.

The Ortho Vision line is designed for professional users in need of quality images for analysis and identification. Ortho Vision Premium imagery is tailored for users in need of the highest possible aesthetics. Images classified as Ortho Vision Premium will feature less than 3% cloud cover, geometric breaks less than one meter and tonally balanced imagery in addition to no haze, pollution or fog.

Both the Vision and Vision Premium products are further segmented by levels of accuracy -- Display (25.4 m CE90), Mapping (10.2 m CE90) and Precision (4.2 m CE90) -- allowing users to select the accuracy level required for their applications. The Precision products offer industry-leading planimetric accuracy for precise measurements, uniformity and consistency with other datasets and the ability to
derive the most accurate information.

"DigitalGlobe has long been a leader in providing orthorectified imagery. With the rollout of this new Advanced Ortho Series, we are able to deliver imagery with industry-leading quality and consistency as well as unmatched resolution and accuracy," said John Oechsle, DigitalGlobe's executive vice president of strategy and product. "With the largest existing library and most active satellite constellation, DigitalGlobe is uniquely positioned to provide these products to the industries that have the most to gain from earth imagery, information and insight."

Higher throughput and faster turnaround time allow for mass deliveries of orthorectified imagery required for large projects or areas of interest. With the capability to process one million square kilometers of imagery per day -- an area equivalent to the size of Egypt -- Vision products can be processed and delivered in as little as 2 days. And only DigitalGlobe has over one billion square kilometers of high-resolution imagery already collected and existing in the DigitalGlobe ImageLibrary ready for processing. Additionally, many areas are available off the shelf ready for immediate delivery.

"With the rapid increase in customer demand for products that can be utilized and integrated without the resources required to manipulate the imagery, it made sense to structure our offerings in a more scalable set of formats designed to meet the needs of a wide range of imagery users," said Oechsle.

Contact Information:

DigitalGlobe
http://www.DigitalGlobe.com

Trimble  introduced today the Trimble MX8 Mobile Spatial Imaging System, an advanced mobile data capture system that combines imaging and laser scanning capabilities to measure objects in 3D to produce 3D, 4D and 5D data sets for spatial imaging projects. The new Trimble MX8 Mobile Spatial Imaging System expands the scope of services that surveyors, engineers, mapping and geospatial professionals can offer to enhance their business. The system is ideal for as-built modeling, inventory, inspection, encroachment analysis, and asset management for roadways, bridges, railways, utilities, and other infrastructure.

With recent advances in the geospatial information industry, more opportunities and applications for spatial imaging data are being identified for industries such as transport and civil engineering, utilities and communications, natural resources management, and government. Many of these applications use airborne information, but would also benefit from ground-based positioning and imaging. While satellite and aerial imaging provide exceptional overhead views and long-range details, the only way to capture comprehensive eye-level views is from the ground. A ground-based sensor such as the Trimble MX8 is an ideal solution that delivers centimeter positioning accuracy, 3D measurements and video imaging—at highway speeds.

"Mobile mapping users are seeking answers to the persistent problems of under-utilized systems and low productivity,” said Ken Spratlin, general manager of Trimble’s GeoSpatial Division. "Trimble continues to listen to customers’ feedback to introduce dynamic solutions that answer real-world needs today while also equipping them for tomorrow’s challenges. In combination with Trimble’s software workflows, the Trimble MX8 allows users to better leverage their existing workforce and pursue new business opportunities while realizing reduced total cost of ownership."

Fast and Accurate Spatial Data
Integrating imaging and laser scanning with advanced Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) plus Inertial positioning, the Trimble MX8 collects 3D data fast and accurately. Featuring a pod-type design, it is easily redeployed and installed on a variety of vehicles as project demands change. A scalable system configuration and sensor upgrade options allow owners to address their evolving needs.

Affordable Change Detection
Operating at highway speeds, the Trimble MX8 allows users to capture more frequent updates of 3D datasets for roadway and right-of-way infrastructure. Combined with Trimble Trident Analyst for Spatial Imaging software, automated extraction of road signs, road geometry, break lines and lane markings reduces manual labor and provides answers earlier in the project. Change detection between current and past datasets allows monitoring of project progress throughout the plan, design, build and maintain phases.

Rapid Return on Investment
Mobile imaging and laser scanning systems create immense datasets that can quickly overwhelm manual workflows. Advanced software automation allows users to better leverage their existing workforce and pursue new business opportunities while realizing reduced total cost of ownership. Automated feature extraction allows service companies and organizations to create more value for their customers and end users by delivering answers instead of data.

Availability
The Trimble MX8 Mobile Spatial Imaging System is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2010 through Trimble's GeoSpatial sales channels.

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://www.trimble.com/geospatial/Trimble-MX8.aspx

The National Geographic Society today awarded Alexander Graham Bell Medals to two visionary geographers and geographic information systems (GIS) pioneers - Dr. Roger Tomlinson, known as "the father of GIS," and Jack Dangermond, a trailblazer in spatial analysis methods.

The Alexander Graham Bell Medal, named for the inventor and the second president of the National Geographic Society, is awarded for extraordinary achievement in geographic research. Bell's great-grandson, National Geographic Society Chairman Gilbert M. Grosvenor, presented the medals to Tomlinson and Dangermond at the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) International User Conference in San Diego.

"Roger and Jack have dedicated their lives to advancing the science of GIS, transforming the field of geography and bringing the use of geographic information to virtually every field of human endeavor and every corner of the globe," Grosvenor said.

British-born Tomlinson, now of Ottawa, Canada, conceived and developed GIS in the 1960s for use by the Canada Land Inventory. His pioneering work changed the face of geography as a discipline. Governments and scientists around the world have turned to him to better understand the environment and changing patterns of land use, and to better manage urban development and the use of natural resources.

Tomlinson's contributions include chairmanship of the International Geographic Union's GIS Commission for 12 years, where he pioneered the concepts of worldwide geographical data availability. He is a past president of the Canadian Association of Geographers and a recipient of its rare Award for Service to the Profession. The Association of American Geographers in the United States awarded him the James R. Anderson Medal of Honor for Applied Geography in 1995. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and winner of its prestigious Murchison Award for the Development of Geographic Information Systems. In 1996 he was awarded the GIS World Lifetime Achievement Award for a lifetime of work with GIS, and he was the first recipient of the ESRI Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. He was awarded the Order of Canada, that country's highest civilian honor, in 2004.

Tomlinson is the principal of Tomlinson Associates, Ltd., Consulting Geographers, which was established in 1977 in Ottawa.

A landscape architect by training, Dangermond, president of ESRI, is one of the founding fathers of GIS technology and is considered to be one of the most influential people in GIS. For more than 40 years he has been an outspoken proponent of GIS as one of the most promising decision-making tools for urban, regional, environmental and global problems. ESRI, which he and his wife founded in 1969, has the largest GIS software install base in the world, with over 1 million users in more than 300,000 organization representing business, government, NGOs and academia. The company, headquartered in Redlands, Calif., is known internationally for GIS software development, training and services.

Dangermond has been a leader and visionary in the field, promoting GIS technology beyond that of his own company. He has delivered keynote addresses at international conferences, published hundreds of papers and given thousands of presentations. His passion for GIS and its application to solving problems, particularly for the causes of the environment and the less empowered in society, is well known throughout the industry.

He has been awarded 10 honorary doctorates and received a number of awards, including the Carl Mannerfelt Medal from the International Cartographic Association in 2008, the Public-Private Partnership Award from the National Governors Association in 2009 and the Patron's Medal from the Royal Geographical Society in June 2010.

National Geographic's Alexander Graham Bell Medal has only been awarded once before. Bradford and Barbara Washburn, renowned explorers, mountaineers and mapmakers, received it in 1980 for their contributions to geography and cartography.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 375 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,200 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy.

Contact Information:

National Geographic
http://nationalgeographic.com

Two years in development, Carlson Software’s Surveyor+ GPS System is now available. It’s the lowest priced, most flexible solution of its kind for accurate, RTK data collection from either cellular-based reference stations or base-to-rover systems.

This dual frequency RTK GNSS receiver and field controller comes with Carlson’s Surveyor+ data collector with its full keyboard, a GSM modem, GNSS board, pole, antenna and additional accessories. The “form factor” is compact with no bulky receiver on the pole and the unit can be used with total stations as well. For those who already own a Carlson Surveyor+ data collector, the RTK engine can be added at any time, making the system fully scalable.

“The Surveyor+ GPS System is a surveyor’s dream,” says Butch Herter, director of Hardware Development for Carlson Software. “Surveyors can purchase just the data collector to operate almost any of their existing equipment and at a later time add the GPS/GNSS pack. They can even do the install themselves in the field. The system is very rugged,” he adds, “and uses the same GNSS board technology as much more expensive systems.”  

For surveyors doing field data collection, the Surveyor+ GPS can read all popular GPS/GLONASS message types and is a perfect companion to any RTK system. The Surveyor+ GPS System allows users to do their GPS fieldwork in the morning, establish control for total station work in the afternoon, all with a rugged hand-held unit.

In addition, the rugged, reliable and accurate Surveyor+ GPS System comes with the highly popular Carlson SurvCE data collection software with its extensive GPS and total station drivers.

For those who have waited to make their first purchase of GPS, or are looking to add systems, now is the time to consider the Carlson Surveyor+ GPS System. When you buy from Carlson, you always get their free and top-rated technical support.

Contact Information:

Carlson
http://www.Carlsonsw.com

Trimble introduced a new version of its Trimble Field Inspector solution for utility infrastructure and smart grid asset maintenance and inspection. The solution is comprised of the Trimble Field Inspector software for handheld computers and Trimble Field Inspector Desktop software. Scalable and easy to deploy, the solution leverages Trimble Global Positioning System (GPS) and handheld computing technology to automate a wide variety of field applications for electric, gas, water, and wastewater utilities—from smart meter deployments to routine asset maintenance inspections. 

The announcement was made at the ESRI International User Conference.

Trimble Field Inspector software for handhelds provides a robust GPS-enabled mobile solution for optimizing smart grid and utility field operations, including asset nstallation, maintenance, and inspection.

Using Trimble mapping and Geographic Information System (GIS) handheld devices, the software allows utility field workers to capture GPS time and location information along with 1D and 2D barcode data, digital images, digital sketches and electronic signatures. The GPS data can be used to route jobs, locate workers and assets, and provide a valuable validation of where and when work is performed to support regulatory reporting. 

Whether performing electric, gas, water, or wastewater maintenance inspection tasks, the Trimble Field Inspector software helps streamline operations with automated field workflows, easy-to-use smart handheld data collection forms, and the ability to interactively view jobs and assets using a map display. Through a single listing of all jobs and their status, users can quickly and easily locate and identify job assignments and priorities.

By putting utility maintenance inspection technology directly in the hands of the mobile workforce, Trimble Field Inspector allows field crews to complete their work faster and more accurately, enhancing utility service quality, improving system reliability, and reducing cost.

Trimble Field Inspector Desktop software leverages existing GIS, asset, and work management databases and workflows to deliver a complete end-to-end handheld maintenance inspection solution for field workers.

The desktop software can connect to an existing ESRI ArcGIS or Open Database Compliant (ODBC) back office system, Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) utility database or the Trimble UtilityCenter Maintenance-2 module. Field maintenance tasks can be defined, grouped together as jobs, scheduled, assigned, and automatically transferred to handheld computers running the Trimble Field Inspector software.

Utility field workers can then perform maintenance tasks using the predefined workflows and easy-to-use smart data entry forms. Field captured data is then returned to the utility’s existing back office GIS, CMMS database or Trimble UtilityCenter Maintenance-2 module to update and track utility and smart grid field asset maintenance work status and history.

The Trimble Field Inspector solution is expected to be available in August 2010 through Trimble’s Utilities Field Solutions group. For more information about Trimble Field Inspector solution, visit:  www.trimble.com/fieldinspector.shtml.

 Trimble’s Utilities Field Solutions group specializes in implementing enterprise GIS and mapping, mobile workforce management, asset maintenance, Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL), field data collection, staking and inspection solutions for electric, gas, water and wastewater utilities. Trimble’s UtilityCenter, Fieldport, eRespond and Utility Fleet Manager enterprise solutions automate utility operations which enable increased field worker productivity, enhanced customer service and faster emergency response.

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://www.trimble.com/ufs

Ashtech is unveiling today the ultimate GIS handheld for high-precision mobile mapping and data collection:  the MobileMapper 100.  MobileMapper 100 is the newest generation of Ashtech GNSS handheld mapping solutions; it complements the well-known MobileMapper family that includes the MobileMapper 6 and MobileMapper CX GPS/GIS data collectors. Like its predecessors, the MobileMapper 100 sets a new standard for mobile mapping accuracy. It provides real-time sub-meter, to centimeter accuracies in a rugged and very lightweight 22-ounce (0.62 kg) unit.   

The MobileMapper 100 integrates an open operating system, built-in communications and Ashtech’s powerful BLADE technology. BLADE allows the MobileMapper 100 to deliver the high accuracies desired by GIS professionals, even in extreme GNSS environments, including urban and rural canyons and under dense canopies.

The MobileMapper 100 provides users maximum flexibility. It offers extended connectivity, including built-in GSM, Bluetooth, USB and RS232 communications and multimedia features like Internet access, E-compass, G-Sensor, and a 3M-pixel camera. The MobileMapper 100’s  GNSS scalability – GPS or GPS/Glonass configuration – and its compatibility with 3rd party networks (VRS, FKP, MAC) enables GIS users to experience optimal data collection virtually every time and anywhere.

Combined with either Ashtech’s MobileMapper Field software or any of the many third-party offerings from Ashtech business partners, the MobileMapper 100 offers the openness, flexibility and scalability needed to answer any mobile GIS application requirement. MobileMapper 100 is Windows Mobile standard for full 3rd party software compatibility and supports ancillary sensors interfacing. MobileMapper 100 supports the new ESRI Arcpad10 software.

Contact Information:

Ashtech
http://www.Ashtech.com

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that the Department of the Interior is seeking nominations for appointment to the National Geospatial Advisory Committee (NGAC).   

The NGAC is an advisory committee that provides recommendations and advice to the federal government on national geospatial policy issues and the management of national geospatial programs.  The NGAC was established by the Department of the Interior in 2007 on behalf of the Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA).  Secretary Salazar serves as the Chair of the FGDC.

"Geospatial information and technology are important and growing components of our economy, and play a vital role in helping us manage our resources and achieve critical national goals,” Secretary Salazar said.  “The National Geospatial Advisory Committee provides a valuable service in allowing us to work with our partners to pursue common goals through a collaborative process."

The NGAC is comprised of up to 30 members to include representation from among, but not limited to, the following stakeholder groups involved in the geospatial community:  Federal Government, State Government, County Government, Regional Government, City/Municipal Government, Tribal Government, Private Sector, User Industries, Professional Associations, Non-Profit Organizations, and Academia. 

NGAC members are appointed for staggered terms, and approximately one-half of the seats on the Committee will be appointed during this round of appointments.

Nominations for appointment to the NGAC should be submitted electronically to ngacnominations@fgdc.gov by August 24, 2010.  Nominations may be submitted on behalf of others, or individuals may self-nominate.  Nominations should include:  
-        A nomination letter summarizing the nominee's qualifications and interest in NGAC membership and describing the nominee's ability to represent a stakeholder group.
-        A biographical sketch, resume, or curriculum vitae.
-        One letter of reference and a list of two additional references with contact information.
-        Contact information for the nominee (name, title, organization, mailing address, e-mail address, and phone number).

Additional information and instructions about the nomination process are posted on the NGAC web page at www/fgdc.gov/ngac.  Individuals who are currently federally registered lobbyists will not be eligible to serve on this committee.

Final selection and appointment of NGAC members will be made by the Secretary of the Interior.  Members of the committee serve without compensation.  However, members may be reimbursed for per diem and travel expenses incurred while attending committee meetings in accordance with the Federal travel regulations as implemented by the Department of the Interior.   

Contact Information:

Department of the Interior
http://www.fgdc.gov/ngac

Ashtech today announced the MB 100 GNSS Board, the world’s most compact dual frequency RTK OEM board.

Designed for demanding applications, MB 100 is the only RTK capable board designed to address equally well L1 GPS+SBAS standard applications, L1/L2 GPS+SBAS and L1 GPS/GLONASS + SBAS applications in the smallest form factor and power consumption ever.  The MB 100 measures 58mm x 56mm x 11mm and uses less than 0.8W of power.  The MB 100 features a variety of output messages and data formats for extensive OEM solution interoperability.

Embedded BLADE technology secures the best possible measurements from the GPS, GLONASS and SBAS constellations by perfectly mixing multiple observables without compromise between quality and availability. It delivers incredibly robust and dependable GNSS measurements optimally processed to yield amazing field productivity.

The MB 100 may be operated either as a base or a rover and is available in various GNSS modes to match the needs of any customer. All modes are available in the same hardware package and are simply activated by firmware option activation.

In addition, the MB 100 also features two antenna input connectors, with automatic switching between the two antennas for specific applications such as handheld integration.

“When power consumption, size and dependable performance such as raw data quality and/or real-time positioning (SBAS up to RTK) are critical, the new Ashtech MB 100 GNSS board simply delivers”, said Olivier Casabianca, product marketing manager of GNSS Boards & Sensors at Ashtech.

First demonstration units will be available during this summer and volume shipments of the Ashtech MB 100 will begin October, 2010.

Contact Information:

Ashtech
http://www.Ashtech.com

Dave Henderson with Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) has received the Geospatial Information and Technology Association (GITA) 2010 Speaker of the Year award. Henderson is the 3D mobile mapping national sales manager for TPS.

The award recognized speakers whom participants ranked as the top five percent best presenters based on quality and content of presentation, visual aids and topic relevance at GITA’s recent Geospatial Infrastructure Solutions Conference in Phoenix, Ariz.

Henderson’s presentation focused on Topcon’s IP-S2 solution for 3D mobile mapping. Henderson said his program was developed for anyone wanting to learn more about “collecting accurate data quickly and safely from inside a vehicle for any asset management, engineering or infrastructure application.”

Topcon’s IP-S2 is a 3D mobile mapping solution that uses a plug-and-play combination of sensors, including LiDAR, GNSS tracking and positioning, digital imaging and inertial measurement unit (IMU) technology. The IP-S2 is designed so users can collect precise vehicle position/bearing data and capture spherical imagery of roadway objects such as sidewalks, buildings, tunnels, bridges and overpasses while driving the system-mounted vehicle at normal traffic speeds. The LiDAR point cloud data is overlaid on the photograph providing a 3D ‘field scene’ from which GIS features and attributes can be extracted.

Henderson said, “I am honored and pleased to have received this award from GITA. The conference was a wonderful avenue to introduce exciting new mobile mapping technology to the geospatial infrastructure industry asset management leaders. I look forward to more discussions at future GITA events.”

Henderson will give a similar presentation at the ESRI User Conference in San Diego. His presentation is scheduled for Wednesday, July 14th at 12 p.m. in the San Diego Convention Center. ESRI UC participants can find out more about Henderson’s presentation and the IP-S2 Mobile Mapping System at Topcon’s exhibit -- Booth # 2115.

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

Brent Jones and Curt Sumner announced that ESRI and ACSM will hold a joint conference in San Diego starting in 2011. They have signed a 3-year  agreement to build on ESRI’s Survey and Engineering GIS Summit and the ACSM annual conference. The Survey Summit will include technical sessions, presentations, and a manufacturer expo. The goal is to bring together GIS users with individuals from the surveying and engineering community to foster education and collaboration and to cultivate new business opportunities for everyone. TheSurveySummit.com will be live soon.

Contact Information:

NEI
http://www.neigps.com
Kelli Guidry
3372371413
kelli_guidry@neigps.com

Julie McDonald, PE, PLS, a Geomatics office manager with McKim & Creed in Charlotte, has been appointed vice chair of the International Right of Way Association’s Surveying and Engineering Committee. The appointment was announced at the IRWA Annual Conference, which was held in Calgary June 27-30.  
The mission of the International Right of Way Surveying and Engineering Committee is to provide advice and assistance on issues related to the survey of real property or interests in property for right-of-way purposes. The committee monitors legislation, concepts, practices and procedures that relate to surveying real property and rights of way for public or private use, and the subsequent construction on affected parcels.

As vice chair of the committee, McDonald will coordinate meeting agendas and minutes, review and update the committee’s strategic plan, and help ensure that the committee is achieving its mission.

McDonald has been a member of the IRWA since 2008. As a Geomatics office manager with McKim & Creed, she supervises 30 crew members and oversees multiple surveying projects, including such projects as the CATS North Corridor Light Rail project, construction surveying for the NASCAR Hall of Fame, McAlpine Creek Greenway, and gas line relocating services for Piedmont Natural Gas.  

McKim & Creed provides engineering and surveying services to public and private sector clients via offices throughout the Southeast. The company, established in 1978, has won numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the nation’s top architectural/engineering/contracting firms by Public Works and Southeast Construction magazines, and one of the top 200 environmental firms in the United States by Engineering News-Record magazine.

Contact Information:

McKim & Creed
http://www.mckimcreed.com

Océ, an international leader in digital document management and delivery, announced the new Océ ColorWave 300 Top Delivery Tray. This is the world’s first stacker that stacks many types of inkjet media on top of the printer, reducing space requirements to a minimum.

Océ ColorWave 300 Top Delivery Tray Ensures Reliable Stacking

Traditionally, collecting and stacking large format inkjet prints is cumbersome. Prints are usually delivered in a tray or bag in front or behind the printer. As a consequence, the order of the prints gets lost, and it can be troublesome finding the right print. Moreover, there is also a high risk of damaging the print. This situation can be improved with a flat stacking table behind or in front of the printer. However, these tables not only occupy considerable floor space but also consume significant energy by applying a heated roll to flatten out the curl of the inkjet media.

With the Océ ColorWave 300, Océ introduced the world’s first true single footprint multifunctional system for large format color and B&W documents. When mounted on top of the Océ ColorWave 300 system, the Top Delivery Tray can stack up to 50 sheets of inkjet media.

Unique Océ Technologies

Unique Océ technologies within the Top Delivery Tray ensure neat and reliable stacking that save considerable time in collating the output. These technologies include:

• Dynamic Anti-Curl Feature: Inkjet media is delivered on 2” cores, which can result in strong curl of the paper, especially at the end of the roll. Curled paper is most difficult to handle and often creates paper jams in traditional horizontal stackers. The Océ ColorWave 300 Top Delivery Tray has a dynamic anti-curl (DAC) feature that deals with the curl dynamically. The DAC feature straightens the paper curl, without applying heat (energy).
• Smart Media Path Design:  There is a huge variety of inkjet media including plain, coated, and photo paper. The Top Delivery Tray can stack many different media types and thicknesses because of the straight media path. The Océ ColorWave 300 system with the Top Delivery Tray is designed in such a way that sharp curves are avoided.
• Drying Time Management: Depending on the ink coverage and the media type, drying time after printing must be taken into account to avoid damaging the prints. The Océ ColorWave 300 system determines the drying time of each media type automatically. The prints and copies will only be transported to the Top Delivery Tray when they are dry.
• Air Separation: When sliding large format prints on top of each other, resistance between two sheets can cause skewed stacking or media to be pushed from a stacker and fall on the ground. These problems are solved on the Océ ColorWave 300 Top Delivery Tray by applying air separation between the sheets, reducing the resistance.

Contact Information:

Océ
http://www.oceusa.com

From PSM's web editor: While it won’t help new home buyers, those who have purchased a home but are still waiting for closing will be helped by Congress’s extension of the home buyer credit. The three-month extension will help the estimated 200,000 people who are purchasing a home but won’t make the deadline. Read “House approves homebuyer tax credit extension” on CNN Money’s website.

Abstract submissions are now being accepted for URISA's Fifth Caribbean GIS Conference. The conference, themed "Geospatial Technologies: Connecting our Industries in Meeting the Region's Challenges," will take place December 6-10, 2010 in Trinidad. Abstract submissions are due on or before August 20, 2010.

The conference committee, chaired by Dr. Jacob Opadeyi, from the Department of Geomatics Engineering and Land Management at The University of The West Indies, is seeking presentations within these categories:

• Earth Observation Systems & Applications
• Disaster and Emergency Management
• Managing GIS
• Applications

Contact Information:

URISA
http://www.urisa.org/2010caribbean_call

SuperGeo Technologies, the leading global provider of complete GIS software and solutions, announces that SuperPad 3, the full function mobile GIS software, is able to support Quick Project function, helping field surveyors rapidly create map projects through a simple process.
 
When doing field work, surveyors may not bring the created map projects with themselves in field survey. Therefore, surveyors would need to create a map project in an easy and fast way in order to effectively complete the collection jobs on time.
 
Quick Project is the function to assist users in immediately creating map projects. The function also enables users to simultaneously add multiple vector layers, point, line, and polygon layers through a simple and efficient creation process. Furthermore, users can add the attribute field for each vector layer and modify the settings of code page, filename, etc. As a result, the efficiency and productivity for field surveyors can be improved significantly.
 
To experience the convenience of Quick Project, please visit www.supergeotek.com to download the newest SuperPad 3.
 
 
#  #  #
 
About SuperGeo
SuperGeo Technologies Inc. is a leading global provider of GIS software and solutions. Since the establishment, SuperGeo has dedicated to providing state-of-the-art geospatial technologies and comprehensive services for customers around the world. It is our vision to help users utilize geospatial technologies to create a better world.
 
SuperGeo software and applications have been spread over the world to be the backbone of the world’s mapping and spatial analysis. SuperGeo is the professional GIS vendor, providing GIS-related users with complete GIS solutions for desktop, mobile, server, and Internet platforms. More information about SuperGeo is available at www.supergeotek.com
 
 

Contact Information:

SuperGeo Technologies
http://www.supergeotek.com/index.aspx
Sarah Liu
886-2-25467700
sarahliu@supergeotek.com

After a major disaster, a satellite image or a collection of aerial photographs is frequently the fastest, most effective way to determine the scope and severity of the event. With that goal, the USGS operates the Hazard Data Distribution System (HDDS) to process and deliver satellite and aerial imagery in near-real time during natural or human-caused disasters.

For example, after Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans, LA in 2005, Landsat satellite images showed when and where the floodwaters drained. High resolution satellite imagery showed the landscape and building damages before and after the magnitude-7 earthquake hit Haiti in January 2010. More recently, USGS obtained satellite imagery to help assess the scope of the oil spill in the Gulf. The imagery is available to all U.S. emergency management officials at the federal, state, local and tribal levels.

On June 28th, discovering and downloading specific scenes among tens of thousands of satellite and aerial images and related products became much more simple thanks to a new graphical user interface. The improved interface gives users the capability to enter in query criteria over their area of interest for the entire USGS Emergency Operations data holdings.  A query can be defined, in various combinations: by an event; by state and county; or by selecting a graphical area of interest. Other features include the capability of selecting both ingested data and ad-hoc data, the provision of an RSS feed, ability to refine the search results, and creation of an item basket for download.

The new graphical interface will run concurrently with the existing web-based directory listing interface.  To get started, go to the HDDS homepage.  Online help is available. 

Contact Information:

USGS
http://edclxs4.cr.usgs.gov/hdds2/

ArcGIS 10, which is now available from Esri, is transforming the way people use geographic information system (GIS) technology. With this release, users will be more productive with their work and will be able to take advantage of GIS everywhere: via individual local desktops, across desktops and browsers leveraging central servers, and in the cloud.

"ArcGIS is a complete system that enables you to solve your most challenging issues," said Damian Spangrud, ArcGIS product manager. "This release provides greater ease of use, more powerful analysis tools, additional Web GIS applications, and new mobile platforms. It also promotes collaboration via an online system for using, sharing, and organizing geographic content."

Perform GIS Work Faster—ArcGIS 10 dramatically improves and simplifies the user experience, streamlines editing, and integrates productivity tools to support the workflows of GIS professionals. This release makes map creation and production much easier and provides best practice templates to help users get started quickly. Users can search by keywords or data types to find data and maps. They can also use the search function to quickly and easily find symbols to use in their maps and tools for analysis.

Powerful Spatial Analysis—ArcGIS has always been the premier software for spatial analysis, and with this release, Esri continues to advance geographic science with new tools. ArcGIS now includes Python scripting for automating common tasks and analyses. Using Python, the capabilities of ArcGIS can be combined with other scientific programming to create powerful solutions. Among the new analyses offered in ArcGIS is location-allocation, which helps users understand how their facilities' placements in a given network impact their ability to serve their customers.

This release also makes it much easier to see data in 3D and introduces the notion of time in both visualization and analysis. Users can create, manage, and visualize time-aware data. They can also display and animate temporal datasets as well as publish and query temporal map services. The ability to see data over time opens opportunities for more in-depth analysis.

Improved Imagery Use and Management—ArcGIS 10 enables better use and management of imagery on the desktop and the server. This release lets users efficiently serve dynamic image mosaics to many applications and easily manage massive image collections with dynamic mosaicking and on-the-fly processing. Moreover, users will experience faster performance with accelerated image display and save time by using the new image analysis window for image interpretation and processing.

New Ways to Share—ArcGIS now offers tight integration with ArcGIS Online search and share capabilities, making it easy to create and distribute projects that may include data, layers, maps, tools, scenes, globes, diagrams, and add-ins. Additionally, it is easy to discover and organize geographic data throughout the enterprise via the new Search service in ArcGIS Server. ArcGIS 10 also allows the expansion of volunteered geographic information or user-generated content on the Web.

Cloud GIS—An exciting aspect of ArcGIS 10 is that users can leverage online maps and tools that are a built-in part of the ArcGIS experience, whether they are using ArcGIS Desktop, mobile devices (e.g., smartphones), browsers, or applications developed using the ArcGIS Web Mapping APIs. Users can also now find, share, organize, and use maps, apps, and other resources via the new ArcGIS.com site—a Web-based gateway into the ArcGIS system. Furthermore, users can discover, share, and present geographic information using ArcGIS Explorer Online, a new browser-based version of ArcGIS Explorer.

ArcGIS Server can now be used on the Amazon cloud. Running ArcGIS Server on Amazon allows organizations to take advantage of multiple cloud services and features.

GIS in the Field—ArcGIS Mobile now has a customizable, out-of-the-box application that allows users to extend mobile projects to in-vehicle and tablet-based PCs. Esri is extending this concept to Apple’s iOS platform. Customers will be able to access a mapping application directly from the Apple iTunes app store. Esri is also providing a software development kit so organizations can build their own focused iPhone and iPad applications.

Availability—"By making ArcGIS 10 available as a download, Esri hopes to dramatically reduce the packaging waste that is associated with typical software releases," said Spangrud. "We are hoping that most of our customers will join us in this effort." Those who need to receive the software on media can still request it and expect to receive it in the next few weeks.

Contact Information:

ESRI
http://www.esri.com/arcgis10

Trimble announced the launch of Map the Spill, a mobile app and Website that empowers Gulf Coast residents and the public to report on the oil spill. Map the Spill allows those directly and indirectly impacted by the spill to capture and chronicle what they see happening to the land, sea and wildlife in their areas. Using rich media and Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, citizens can be part of a mass data collection process. The free app is currently available on Android and BlackBerry mobile phones and will be available soon on the iPhone. Scientists, government agencies and non-governmental agencies (NGOs) that are taking part in clean-up efforts can use the data and content created and shared by Map the Spill users to assist in their efforts.

Focused on helping to capture the impacts and clean-up efforts of the largest oil disaster in U.S. history, Map the Spill allows users to log reports, upload photos, map their locations and share updates with other users. Mapthespill.org will serve as a content repository as well as a source for the latest news and tweets on the oil spill.

“Map the Spill provides an opportunity for individuals who are being affected by the oil spill to get the word out on the real-time repercussions as well as the collective clean-up efforts,” said Rich Rudow, general manager of Trimble Outdoors. “Map the Spill empowers citizens in a way never done before, so entire communities can be a part of the reporting and clean up. Now individuals in the Gulf Coast can have an opportunity to take part in the oil spill story as it unfolds.”

Map the Spill is collaborating with response teams and non-profit groups—such as the Alabama Coastal Foundation and Mobile Bay Keepers—to ensure the most helpful and relevant data is being collected by the public and volunteers.

“This application will be an invaluable tool for citizens in coastal areas affected by the oil release. The geographic scope of the spill as well as the nature of the oil coming onshore makes tracking and identifying oil impacted areas a monumental task; having so many sets of eyes on the coast will be an incredible asset,” said Bethany Kraft, executive director of the Alabama Coastal Foundation. “Our own volunteer field observers will be able to migrate their data collection capabilities online and the mapping feature will allow the Alabama Coastal Foundation and our partners to identify areas that are not being covered so that we can direct volunteers to those locations that need special attention.”

The app is designed for public use and serves as a repository for important scientific detail that will be utilized by a variety of organizations dealing with the spill. The app is designed to work in both land and sea areas even without cell coverage.

How to Download
Map the Spill runs on Android-compatible phones and is free for download in the Android Marketplace. The app also runs on 16 BlackBerry devices and is free for download at MapTheSpill.org. It will be available soon in the BlackBerry App World and iTunes App Store for Apple iPhones. 

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://MapTheSpill.org

St. Charles, IL - Parcel Builder is quickly becoming recognized as the de facto software standard for parcel mapping within the geodatabase.  In its commitment to keep Parcel Builder’s over 700 users current with the ESRI® technology they use, Sidwell announces Parcel Builder 4.0.   Sidwell’s development team has been working for months to take advantage of the new editing, printing, and workflow components of ArcGIS 10.  Parcel Builder 4.0 builds upon the successes of its preceding versions by offering more functionality, better integration, and easier to use tools.  Most of all, Parcel Builder has been enhanced to take full advantage of ArcGIS 10.

Parcel Builder 4.0 demonstrations will be available at the upcoming 2010 ESRI International User Conference, July 12-16 in San Diego. Visit Sidwell at Booth # 1114 to learn more about this exciting new product!

Parcel Builder 4.0 will allow users to maintain parcel maps using standard non-proprietary feature classes while taking advantage of the geodetic control tools available within the new parcel fabric feature class type.  Another important change is that Parcel Builder 4.0 is re-engineered to the .Net platform, which positions it for migration to a web computing environment.

The Parcel Builder tagged data model has been embraced by well over 100 counties as an efficient geodatabase schema within which to maintain cadastral data.  It eliminates the need to maintain redundant boundaries while ensuring that boundaries that are supposed to be coincident really are coincident.  In Parcel Builder 4.0, maintenance of this model has been fully integrated into the new ArcGIS 10 editing interface. Parcel Builder 4.0 also utilizes a new license server and offers single user, concurrent, or leased licensing, including a site license option.

Parcel Builder-Administrator provides more flexible access to linked data from other applications, and the option to associate multiple data columns to the geodatabase parcel feature class. Additional options for automated parcel numbering include a “snake” tool for quick and simple sequential numbering.  With parcels being a basic data element of many city and county departments, the interface to CAMA and Recorder’s Office systems has greatly improved.

Parcel Builder-AddressManager has been integrated with Parcel Builder-Administrator so that addressing personnel will know when new parcels have been added in real time.  The critical association between parcel number and site address will be automatically established as the addresses are assigned.

In response to our users request for tools to support commonly repeated tasks, we are introducing an improved tag editor, enhanced support for “undo”, improved annotation support, a mailing list generator, a quick query tool, pre-configured thematic mapping, and one button generation of pre-formatted maps. Parcel Builder 4.0 also offers a new browser based web viewing application built with the Silverlight Rich Internet Application platform: PB-Portico. This totally new parcel mapping and data access toolset will provides a map-centric experience for GIS professionals and citizens wishing to search, query, and compare their property tax records.

Brent Mainzinger, Sidwell’s Vice President of Technology said, “Parcel Builder 4.0 represents the most significant advancement of our code since the inception of the product.  While Parcel Builder 4.0 will provide immediate benefits to our clients by delivering more powerful and efficient editing tools, it will also enable us to quickly add new capabilities to the product as we move ahead. "

Contact Information:

The Sidwell Company
http://www.sidwellco.com
Karen Fouts, Marketing Manager
630-549-1065
kfouts@sidwellco.com

Leica Geosystems announces Leica CloudWorx-VR for 3ds Max, 3ds Max design, and Maya. These plug-ins provide a convenient way for professionals to efficiently create more photorealistic and compelling models, renderings, and animations based on rich, High-Definition Survey data of sites & structures as collected by 3D laser scanners.

The use of visually rich, High-Definition Survey data for multi-media applications such as marketing proposals, client education, and project communications has been steadily growing. However, traditional methods of processing as-built and topographic point cloud data and merging it with models and photography for multi-media applications have been time consuming. In addition, the quality of
deliverables has been constrained by limitations in stand-alone point cloud software otherwise used for this. Now, Leica CloudWorx-VR-plus Autodesk 3ds Max or Maya overcome these limitations, making it easy to create even more compelling multi-media deliverables based on laser scan data.

Leica CloudWorx-VR offers 3ds Max and Maya users the same, familiar user interface they already know from using these multi-media tools. CloudWorx-VR lets users apply 3ds Max and Maya tools directly to large point cloud data sets. Users can efficiently load a dense, colored point cloud as a 3D background, merge point cloud data with other model elements, cast shadows on the cloud, and even process point clouds into smooth surface models - all within the 3ds Max or Maya interface. CloudWorx-VR supports data from Leica HDS and 3rd party laser scanners, enabling any laser scanner user to more easily expand service offerings to include exciting multi-media deliverables based on point clouds. 

Users can purchase Leica CloudWorx-VR and receive local support directly from Leica Geosystems, the world leader in laser scanning hardware and software, and authorized representatives. The powerful, new plug-in was developed by Alice Labs (Netherlands), a start-up company comprised of experienced Leica HDS users plus talented academic staff. Alice Labs and Leica Geosystems have signed an exclusive agreement for Leica Geosystems to sell and support the plug-in product as Leica CloudWorx-VR, the newest member of the Leica CloudWorx family of convenient point cloud plug-in software.

Dr.-Ing. Christian Hesse of Dr. Hesse und Partner Ingenieure, Germany reports, “We were impressed by point cloud animations of an historic ship that we saw at the 2009 Leica Geosystems HDS Worldwide User Conference in San Ramon, CA, and discussed the point cloud plug-in for 3ds approach with the presenter. We’ve since changed over from another vendor’s software to deploy this technology and we have been very pleased to quickly expand our business into this exciting area with excellent results. Our customer’s response was outstanding.” An example of this work done by Dr. Hesse und Partner Ingenieure is on YouTube.

Contact Information:

Leica Geosystems
http://www.leica-geosystems.com

Ashtech today introduced a new GNSS firmware upgrade for the entire ProFlex line of products, including the ProFlex 500, ProFlex 500 Marine, ProFlex 500 CORS, ProFlex Lite and ProFlex Lite Duo.

The new firmware features as standard:

• Hot Stand-By RTK: Doubles the assurance that an RTK position is always available and robust.
• Advanced Raw Data Quality: Multi-criterion internal observation masks optimize raw data depending on reception parameters and the dynamics of the receiver.
• Ashtech Optimized Messaging (ATOM) format:  Freedom from radio link throughput issues using the new compact and ultra compact scenario of ATOM format.
• RTC Bridge for ProFlex 500 only: Extends the number of users working in a given area by allowing one of them to forward its corrections, received through GPRS, to others through a radio link, thus saving money on mobile communication fees.
• Legacy DBEN Base format support for ProFlex Lite only: Transit smoothly from legacy Ashtech sensors generation to the newest generation.

A new radio option is also available for the ProFlex Lite GNSS sensor:
U-Link Radios are now available for the ProFlex Lite. The U-Link radio option allows users to send/receive RTK corrections through a UHF radio link. Ashtech offers two types of radios through this option: Internal Ashtech U-Link Rx and external Ashtech U-Link TRx. This new option will be of special interest for application in machine guidance in agriculture, civil engineering or coastal works such as dredging or bathymetry.

Contact Information:

Ashtech
http://www.ashtech.com

A software compatibility issue took out as many as 10,000 military GPS receivers earlier this year, underlining the critical role GPS plays in today’s military. U.S. defense systems that rely on GPS include aircraft, ships, armored vehicles, bombs, and artillery shells. A temporary fix took less than two weeks to identify, develop, and implement. Needless to say, the military is being somewhat tight-lipped on the matter. More details on Google News: “Glitch shows how much US military relies on GPS”.

Senior executives of the three member companies of the GIAA passed a resolution June 10th calling for GIAA to disassociate itself from SAMA and become part of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). The GIAA will likely be renamed and is calling itself the Geomatics Industry Group (GIG) in the interim. According to geomatics consultant, POB columnist and advisor Joseph V.R. Paiva, PhD, PS, PE, who is facilitating the transition for the group, the move will allow it to more fully address the needs of the geomatics industry. "The principal reason for this action is to create an organization that is in an association environment more closely matched to collaborators and users of geomatics services and products," Paiva said.

Under the AEM, the group will move forward with new elements of focus such as safety; technical issues facing manufacturers and customers; expanding statistical reporting to product groups not currently reported; expanding services to the customer chain and/or members of the group; and expanding, invigorating and improving on current activities. The group will be led by a steering committee composed of the senior executives of the full member companies.

Neither AEM nor SAMA have formally accepted the recommendation. However, the move by the senior executives of GIAA sets the wheels in motion to begin a positive change in how the group addresses the needs of both equipment manufacturers and users.

Cogent3D, Inc., announces the iTune App store release of GISRoam, a new iPad and iPhone application that allows the user to load, view, collect, search, edit and save ESRI GIS Shapefiles.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/gisroamid370163784?mt=8

It’s never beeneasier to have GIS at your fingertips. With Apple iPad’s user-friendly interface and GPS, GISRoam lets you display your shapefile layers on Google Maps.

GISRoam is much more than a way to view your GIS layers. GISRoam includes powerful searching, feature attribution editing, and GPS enhanced creation of new Polygon, Line, and Point features in new or existing Shapefile layers while you roam.

“I’m very excited to have all of my ESRI shapefiles on my iPad and ready for reference and updating when working with our customers, “ said Aaron  Hutchinson, President of Cogent3D,  “This convenience alone will offset the cost paid many times over.” 

The GISRoam client application is FREE, but to load shapefile data onto or save changes off the iPad and iPhone, one must purchase an account to WebconnectTM in the GISRoam application. The $19.95 webconnect TM lets you share and synchronize all the shapefile layers between your iPad/iPhone(s) and any desktop computer using WiFi or 3G networks.

Look for enhanced versions of GISRoam with enhanced collections methods and alternative map services options in version 2.0. Also DISRoamtm the GISRoam based application with 2525B Military icon support, Shapefile based annotations, and real-time DIS entity position, state, interaction, and animation support coming July 2010.

Contact Information:

GISRoam
http://www.GISRoam.com

Autodesk, Inc., a world leader in 2D and 3D design, engineering and entertainment software, today announced the availability of Autodesk Topobase 2011 products and Autodesk MapGuide Enterprise 2011 software, new tools that help customers
manage infrastructure assets more effectively and plan for the future. With these products, infrastructure professionals can get a broader understanding of the location and status of their assets and more easily share information over the web.

“Our 2011 infrastructure portfolio helps transportation, water, energy, and land development professionals use information to better plan, design, build, and manage infrastructure,” said Paul McRoberts, senior director, Infrastructure Modeling Product Line Group, AEC solutions division for Autodesk. “Our focus with this release is on making the information more valuable to the user, reinforcing our commitment to deliver the proven benefits of a building information modeling (BIM) process to infrastructure professionals.”

The release of Autodesk Topobase 2011 products (Autodesk Topobase Client 2011 and Autodesk Topobase Web 2011) and Autodesk MapGuide Enterprise 2011 for infrastructure management complements the recently released AutoCAD
Map 3D 2011 software for planning, AutoCAD Civil 3D 2011 software for design, and Autodesk Navisworks 2011 products for construction to provide a more
comprehensive solution for the infrastructure lifecycle.

Contact Information:

Autodesk
http://www.Autodesk.com

Since 1963, URISA members and friends have convened annually to learn about, share and discuss all things geospatial. The name of URISA’s annual conference has recently been updated to better reflect that focus.

URISA is pleased to present GIS-Pro 2010: URISA’s 48th Annual Conference for GIS Professionals. The first conference under the new banner will take place September 28-October 1, 2010 in Orlando, Florida and the deadline to take
advantage of discounted registration fees is July 19.

Contact Information:

URISA
http://www.gis-pro.org/

PCI Geomatics, a world leading developer of geo-imaging software and systems, is pleased to announce it has signed an extended technology license agreement with Rolta India Limited.  Under the terms of the agreement, Rolta will develop geo-imaging products and solutions using core PCI Geomatics/Rolta technologies for release to the global market.  Using PCI’s advanced geo-imaging technology, Rolta will now be able to offer world-class products and solutions for processing satellite imagery in areas such as environmental modeling, forestry and natural resources, emergency planning and management, agriculture, security and defense.  

Mr. K.K. Singh, Chairman and CEO of Rolta said, “This strategic and comprehensive technology partnership with PCI Geomatics is an important milestone in the evolution of Rolta as a major global player in the geospatial technology space. This will enable us to offer world-class end-to-end solutions to our customers globally for applications in mapping and earth sciences, and to provide enterprise-level integration of their organizations’ spatial and non-spatial data through Rolta GeospatialFusionTM.”

The agreement also includes ongoing collaboration for PCI Geomatics expertise, which will facilitate Rolta to jump-start development of additional state-of-the-art imaging solutions that will augment its portfolio of offerings in the geospatial space, further strengthening Rolta’s solid reputation in this field worldwide.

“PCI Geomatics is pleased with our relationship with Rolta and this latest agreement further extends our partnership,” said Terry Moloney, Interim President and CEO, PCI Geomatics.  “This agreement is beneficial to both parties for it leverages each other’s expertise as well as market knowledge and reach. In combination with PCI’s cutting-edge technologies, Rolta’s solutions will provide unique opportunities to customers world-wide to better exploit modern imaging applications.”
 

Contact Information:

PCI Geomatics
http://www.PCIGeomatics.com

DigitalGlobe, a leading global content provider of high-resolution earth imagery solutions, and DeLorme, the innovation leader in mapping and GPS technologies, today announced an agreement under which DigitalGlobe will provide high-resolution imagery for DeLorme's Earthmate series, including the PN-30, PN-40 and PN-60 models. Through this agreement, hikers, climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts will be able to update their DeLorme Earthmate GPS device with highly accurate imagery for real-world perspective that exists between the lines of a traditional map.

"Consumer demand for location-based services continues to grow at a rapid pace, and this growth has activated an explosion of new applications for earth imagery solutions," said Rafay Khan, senior vice president, commercial sales, DigitalGlobe. "Our relationship with DeLorme is another proof point of our continued commitment to delivering imagery to a range of users."

DigitalGlobe's imagery will be available in July 2010, in tandem with the release of DeLorme's latest handheld GPS device, the Earthmate PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator. In addition to offering premium imagery content, this GPS and satellite communication product will be the first handheld GPS navigation device capable of sending customized text messages even when the user is operating far
beyond the range of cellular communications.

"The combination of DeLorme's functionality and DigitalGlobe's industry-leading imagery will give DeLorme's customers the opportunity to truly explore their environment, whether they are hiking a local footpath or climbing the highest of peaks," said Caleb Mason, vice president at DeLorme. "DigitalGlobe has led the way in bringing the value of imagery to the commercial market, and we are confident that the extensive coverage and currency of DigitalGlobe's imagery will
offer our users an experience that's second to none."

DigitalGlobe's constellation of satellites and aerial network offer an industry-leading collection capacity of more than 500 million square kilometers each year -- amounting to three times the earth's landmass. Imagery will be available for the DeLorme devices on a subscription basis.

Contact Information:

DeLorme
http://www.DeLorme.com

Esri president Jack Dangermond has been honored with the Patron’s Medal by the United Kingdom’s Royal Geographical Society (RGS). In its official announcement, RGS stated that Dangermond received the award “for his extensive work promoting geographical science through the development of geographic information systems. He is one of the greatest advocates for geography and its key role in understanding and responding to many of the challenges of the twenty-first century.”

First presented in 1839 for “the encouragement and promotion of geographical science and discovery,” each award is officially recognized and approved by the ruling monarch.

Dangermond said, “I am honored to be a recipient of the Royal Geographical Society’s Patron’s Medal and join its group of explorers and geographic scientists. I have worked in the scientific field of computational geography for more than 40 years. During that time, the use of GIS [geographic information system]-based analytic methodology has increased exponentially and is now implemented in numerous applications ranging from monitoring climate change to optimizing soil amendments for improved crop yield. The technology is also commonly used by first responders for natural and man-made disasters.”

Dangermond continued, “I believe that as we expand the use of this technology on the Web, people throughout the world will better understand how our actions generate interrelated patterns and processes that affect us all. This insight will spur the Age of Applied Geography and be used as a foundation for a greater understanding of ourselves and our planet, providing the incentive for positive change. I accept this award on behalf of my colleagues and, more importantly, our users, who are leveraging geographic knowledge to expand our perception of the dynamics that shape our world.”

Past honorees of the Patron’s Medal include David Livingstone, Roald Amundsen, Sir Edmund Hillary, and Richard Leakey. The society is a key supporter of many famous expeditions, including those of Charles Darwin, the evolution theorist and biologist, and Robert Scott’s Antarctic explorations. In addition, it sponsors geographic research, education, conferences, and workshops.

Added Dangermond, “Mapmakers have systematically recorded our increased understanding of the world for more than 2,300 years. With the development of GIS technology, we now have the tools to perform detailed analysis of both physical and human geographies that can help us provide a better stewardship of the planet.”

Dangermond is recognized not only as a pioneer in spatial analysis methods but also as one of the most influential people in GIS. He takes a leadership role in national and global initiatives to facilitate standards for data access and sharing across agencies and organizations. He is personally committed to applying GIS methods to advance sustainable communities and has led initiatives to donate software to environmental and educational groups and nongovernmental organizations around the world.

Dangermond received a master of science degree in landscape architecture from the Graduate School of Design, Harvard University, and has been awarded several honorary doctorates.

Among the many honors he has received in recent years are the Carl Mannerfelt Medal from the International Cartographic Association, the Distinguished Public Service Award for Outstanding Contributions to National and International Affairs from the U.S. Department of State, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Geospatial Information & Technology Association.

Contact Information:

ESRI
http://www.esri.com

Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) has been selected to supply GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) receivers and software for Anhui Province Continuously Operating Reference Station Network (AHCORS).

The AHCORS network is designed to provide full coverage of Anhui Province of China with network RTK capability and it is an effort by the provincial government to improve and modernize its surveying infrastructure. The system consists of up to 100 reference stations within or in the close vicinity of the province and will operate continuously to provide network-RTK or network-DGPS services to subscribers. AHCORS will be operated by Anhui Provincial Agency of Surveying and Mapping.

Fifty-six Topcon Net-G3A GNSS CORS receivers and CR-G3 GNSS choke ring antennas, two GR-3 RTK rovers, and TopNET software with 100 connection nodes have been selected for AHCORS through a public tender.

The Topcon Net-G3 family of receivers that will be used for AHCORS incorporate Topcon G3 technology which allows for universal signal tracking compatible with all existing and planned satellite navigation systems. The Topcon TopNET software is a complete suite of modular software that enables full receiver remote control, data streaming, downloading of data and commands, display of the system status, user account management, plus other options.

TopNET is the central piece of a Topcon reference station network. With Net-G3A and TopNET, Topcon provides an industry-leading solution for reference station networks.
Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. (TPS) designs and manufactures precise positioning products and solutions for the global surveying, construction, agriculture, civil engineering, mapping and GIS, asset management and mobile control markets. TPS’ parent company, Topcon Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange – 7732), was founded in 1932.

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

Contact Information:

Spatial Information Solutions
http://www.spatialis.com

Sokkia Corporation announced the release of the new B series automatic levels – B20, B30 and B40 – that replace the previous lineup of the B and C series.

“The new B series automatic levels feature further enhanced reliability under all environmental conditions,” said Patrick Moran, senior regional manager. The water protection rate of the B series models has been increased from IPx4 to IPx6. “Tough and compact bodies are fully resistant to driving rain and splashing water from all directions. The advanced protection technology also prevents the telescope from fogging or condensing without using nitrogen gas.”

Moran said, “The optimally designed telescope provides an exceptionally bright and sharp view that reduces operator’s eye strain. An ultra-short focus distance of 20cm (7.9 in.) from the end of the telescope is the definite advantage for use in confined locations.

“The B series levels incorporate the most precise and reliable compensator available in the market today,” said Moran. Four super-high-tensile suspension wires and a magnetic damping system ensure accuracy and stability even when exposed to temperature changes, vibrations, or shock. “Sokkia’s SDL1X, the world’s highest-precision digital level that provides 0.2mm accuracy, employs the common basic mechanism for its compensator.

“The technological superiority of the Sokkia automatic levels has been proven since the release of the best-selling B2 model in 1963.” Moran said, “The new B series levels provide quick setup, easy sighting, and superior durability against vibration and shock, ensuring increased productivity over an extra-long period of time.”

Product Lineup

• B20: 32x magnification, 0.7mm accuracy
• B30: 28x magnification, 1.5mm accuracy
• B40: 24x magnification, 2.0mm accuracy

Options

• Diagonal eyepiece
• 40x eyepiece for B20
• Optical micrometer for B20; providing increased accuracy of 0.5mm

The B series automatic levels are available through authorized Sokkia distributors.

Contact Information:

Sokkia
http://www.sokkiacorp.com

UniversalPegasus International, Inc., announces that John M. Jameson has been named Chief Executive Officer.  Mr. Jameson succeeds Jerry Mayfield who will assume the role of Executive Chairman.

“We conducted an extensive search to identify our next Chief Executive Officer and are confident that under the leadership of John Jameson we will continue in our goal of building a world-class energy services firm serving the offshore, onshore and power sectors,” Mr. Mayfield said.

Mr. Jameson has more than 28 years of experience in the oil and gas industry in the United States and Canada.  His experience includes field engineering, sales, strategic planning, and mergers and acquisitions.  Prior to joining UniversalPegasus International, Mr. Jameson held executive leadership roles at two of the world’s largest oilfield services companies - most recently leading a group with $3 billion in annual revenue.
 
Mr. Jameson is a registered Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia, and a Masters in Business Administration from Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana.  

Contact Information:

Universal Pegasus
http://www.UniversalPegasus.com

Participants at the fifth INTERGEO preview all agreed that the geo disciplines need to be integrated more closely in the future in order to promote environmental protection. Geoexperts are faced with a special responsibility - "environmental information is always geoinformation," said Prof. Klaus Greve. At the event in Cologne, Prof. Greve, Executive Director of the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn, highlighted environmental information as "the currency of environmental policy, without which environmental protection measures cannot be implemented in the long term".

Dr. Jens Riecken, Vice President of the DVW, was not slow to emphasize the key role played by Cologne. Cologne is a centre for geoinformation, he said, and North Rhine-Westphalia generates innovation on the geoinformation market that goes far beyond the state's boundaries. "In North Rhine-Westphalia, we embrace the concept of partnership and competition to provide a powerhouse for the industry," explained Riecken, "and that's how I see INTERGEO in Cologne too".

At the INTERGEO preview, the world's largest conference trade fair for geodesy, geoinformation and land management, which will be held at the Koelnmesse exhibition centre from 5 to 7 October 2010, Greve called for a special lobby for driving forward environmental policies - namely, the informed citizen. It was a matter, he argued, of pooling the wide range of information already available on the environment and condensing it into relevant, planning-related and politically sound messages - not just to monitor the environment, however, but also to provide support for communicating environmentally relevant facts. Greve said Enviroinfo2010 would make a necessary contribution to reducing the complexity of environmental information. The international conference on information technology for environmental protection is taking place at the Koelnmesse exhibition centre on 6 October alongside INTERGEO. Industry professionals will then meet in Bonn on 7 and 8 October.

At the INTERGEO preview headlined "Data from the universe - future for the environment", Dr. Andreas Müterthies focused on the European initiative "Global Monitoring for Environment and Security" (GMES) and the European satellite navigation system GALILEO. Dr. Müterthies, a specialist from EFTAS Fernerkundung Technologietransfer GmbH, provided information on the operational status of GMES in 2014 and painted an impressive picture of the potential for integrated use of the two space projects. Key aspects of his presentation included precision farming, where fertiliser is applied exactly where it is required, precise safeguards for ground movements and accurate control procedures to protect dikes. "If we harness technology and use it appropriately and users also deploy it appropriately, we will succeed in safeguarding the environment," said Müterthies.

"Work processes are changing. The boundaries of processes for simply recording positional data are becoming blurred in areas such as nature conservation, disaster protection and environmental protection," said Jörg Amend, sales manager of Survey Deutschland at Trimble GmbH, the long-standing sponsor of the INTERGEO Conference, in his presentation on "New approaches to positioning solutions and GIS". 

If the boundaries become more and more fluid and need to be stretched even further - not least in the field of geoexpertise - to promote the cause of environmental protection, the annual INTERGEO event will become even more important in establishing a "connected community". Olaf Freier, CEO of INTERGEO organiser HINTE GmbH, referred to the special status of the conference trade fair as a communication network and forum for presenting topics. He said the event generates around 1.2 million contacts through the conference, trade fair, press and other media, naturally including the Internet. Impressive coverage is achieved through some 50 media partnerships throughout the world and INTERGEO makes use of around 200 media outlets around the globe, Freier added.

The expansion of new technologies and formats will intensify communication in the future, he said.

At the close of the preview, the range of INTERGEO topics presented begged the follow-up question "What should young people now study?"

Speakers felt that every form of training was useful in the geoinformation sector - the unanimous view was that there is ultimately a serious shortage of students. Müterthies reminded those present that the geoinformation industry is one of the world's fastest growing sectors, notably in Germany. Courses leading to qualification as a geo-engineer or geomatician will also become increasingly relevant as these professions grow in demand. "The industry is rewarding. The
market is rewarding. It's a field that is very interesting. There are many areas where you can play your part."

INTERGEO will take place at the Koelnmesse exhibition centre in Cologne from 5 to 7 October 2010, taking as its theme "Knowledge and action for planet Earth".

Visit our Events Calendar for more upcoming events

Contact Information:

INTERGEO
http://www.intergeo.de

Maptek founder and chairman Dr Bob Johnson was recently named as an Innovation Hero by Sydney University's Warren Centre for Advanced Engineering. 

Bob has pioneered and commercialised technology that has significantly benefited the mining, engineering and surveying industries.

Maptek product technology focuses on analysing and modelling data from disparate sources to solve the problems that engineers, geologists and miners
face every day. 

'Vision - the art of seeing what does not exist - only comes to a reality by hard work and team effort,' said Bob after receiving the award, which was presented at the Innovation Lecture in Adelaide last week.  'At Maptek we see our role as creating innovations for our mining customers, allowing them to develop their resources in a safe and efficient manner.'
 
Professor Mike Dureau, Executive Director of the Warren Centre commented, 'The recipients of the Award possess a unique vision and drive to see their products commercialised to the benefit of local and international industries.'
* * *
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Contact Information:

Maptek, Warren Centre for Advanced Engineering
http://www.maptek.com

Hemisphere GPS announces the release of the Crescent Vector II OEM board and a broad range of Crescent Vector II GPS compass products: V101 Series, VS101 Series, and LV101 OEM board.

The Crescent Vector II OEM board brings a series of new features to Hemisphere GPS patented Crescent receiver technology including heave, pitch, and roll output, more accurate timing, lower phase noise, and an improved accelerometer. This design provides precise heading and positioning accuracy even while sitting still. In addition, the compact size, low-power consumption, and simple configuration of the Crescent Vector II OEM board make it an ideal solution for system integrators. These advancements have been designed into the production of all Crescent Vector II products including the following:

• V101 and V111 all-in-one GPS compass (superseding the V100/V110) - an affordable heading and positioning 50cm baseline smart antenna that combines the Crescent Vector II and two multipath-resistant antennas for precise guidance, portability, and simple installation.

• VS101 and VS111 GPS compass (superseding the VS100/VS110) - a receiver with user interface display and two separately-mounted antennas, utilizes the Crescent Vector II to deliver reliable accuracy at significantly less cost than competitors’ products or traditional methods and is ideal for professional machine control and navigation applications.

• LV101 OEM board (superseding and backwards compatible to the LV100) - integrates the Crescent Vector II, two GPS antennas, an NMEA 2000 communication processor, a single axis gyro, a tilt sensor, and a power supply onto a single board to allow for ease of integration into your system and provides precise heading and sub-meter position accuracy even while stationary.

"The Crescent Vector II OEM board improves upon the success of the original Crescent Vector by providing a more robust precision GPS solution to both OEM integrators and off-the-shelf end users," says Phil Gabriel, VP and General Manager, Precision Products, for Hemisphere GPS. "With this release we are now able to provide these advancements across our entire Vector-based product line."

The Crescent Vector II OEM board and all Crescent Vector II products will be available July 2010 through the Hemisphere GPS Precision Products global dealer network.

Contact Information:

Hemisphere GPS
http://www.hemispheregps.com

MoGO is a free iPhone application developed by the University of Amherst to help volunteers find wildlife in need of rescue. Users take geo-tagged photos of affected wildlife and habitat and submit them to an Amherst database for analysis. Rescue efforts are mobilized using the submitted "crowd-sourced" geo-data. For more information, go the MoGO website.

Averna, premier test solution provider to communications and electronics device-makers, has released the URT 5.2 test platform, which includes the first commercially available 3x50 MHz Wideband Record & Playback solution targeting precision GNSS markets such as survey, agriculture, and earthworks.

URT 5.2 also comprises a new XM Multi-Beam Toolkit for Manufacturing and Software Validation for car radio manufacturers, with certification pending from SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. Averna’s URT is the recipient of a 2010 Best in Test award.

Key new features:

• 3x50 MHz Wideband Record & Playback for mapping, agriculture, and earthworks applications. Precision GNSS technology leaders must develop extremely accurate GPS devices so that surveying, construction, and farming equipment can be tightly controlled, sometimes in demanding environmental conditions, while operating for longer hours. New wideband capabilities of up to 150 MHz in the Averna RF Signal Record & Playback can now help GPS developers capture the entire spectrum of GPS L1, L2, L5 and GLONASS L1, L2, L3 signals in the field, with a view to building more comprehensive test libraries to fine-tune their devices against real world signals—in the lab.
• XM Multi-Beam Toolkit for Manufacturing and Software Validation (Certification Pending) Car radio manufacturers need to lock onto XM band frequency ranges to efficiently validate XM receivers in the lab. Using this Averna URT radio toolkit to simulate 4 satellites and 2 terrestrial beams, they will be able to validate their devices with confidence, in design and in production. 
• Other features and enhancements in URT 5.2 include improved Automatic Gain Control (AGC) and Google Earth KML file format support in the Averna Record & Playback, as well as HD Radio In-Band On-Channel (IBOC) signal-generation capabilities for the new E1 file format from iBiquity Digital Corporation.

Contact Information:

Averna
http://www.averna.com

Trimble announced today improvements to its Trimble FX 3D Laser Scanner for applications requiring high accuracy and high quality data in industrial plant applications. The improvements extend the range of the Trimble FX to capture high resolution position information up to 80 meters. The increased range allows more data to be captured from each setup, reducing field time and extending the flexibility for use in a variety of applications. The Trimble FX also includes a new compact design and durable housing that combine to increase portability and flexibility when operating in confined industrial environments.  

"With the enhancements to the Trimble FX and our broad portfolio of 3D laser scanners, Trimble is able to offer a range of solutions that address the various application needs for the industrial plant environment,"  said Patricia Boothe, business director for Trimble's Power, Process and Plant Division.

An Integral Solution for Plant Lifecycle Management

Managing a plant's lifecycle requires a clear understanding of the location and condition of the plant's assets. The Trimble FX 3D laser scanning solution can be used for a variety of industrial plant positioning applications:

. Capturing existing condition data for accurate project planning for basic and detailed design;
. Ensuring dimensions of high tolerance fabricated parts prior to transportation and installation;
. Verifying as-built construction for quality assurance and additional detailed design;
. Visualizing real world conditions for training and simulation;
. Monitoring plant assets and potential movement or deformation during use;
. Planning retrofit construction projects based upon high accurate data.

The Trimble FX with increased range is available now.

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://www.trimble.com/plant

Consultants and contracting engineers working on the Gulf of Mexico oil spill have drawn upon the vast equipment inventory that is available from specialist instrumentation rental company Ashtead Technology.

Speaking from the company's Baton Rouge facility, spokesman Randall Farr said,
"Environmental disasters always necessitate a rapid, effective response from those responsible for monitoring the effects of such incidents. It is therefore essential that a wide range of the latest technologies is available at a moment's notice to ensure that this need is met. 

"Ashtead Technology provides a complete portfolio of monitoring equipment that is tested, calibrated and ready to go, so following the Deepwater Horizon explosion we were able to deliver the necessary equipment within a few hours of the first requests coming in."

Rental instruments have been utilized by several organizations both at the scene of the Deepwater Horizon rig and also along the affected shoreline. This equipment includes the TSI Sidepak AM510 Personal Aerosol Monitor to measure ambient air particulates that arise from gas flaring and RAE photoionization detectors  (MultiRAE, MiniRAE, and UltraRAE instruments) to measure benzene and other airborne organic pollutants. In addition, SKC Sidekick Pumps have been utilized for the sampling of gases and vapours.

Instrument rental lends itself to rapid environmental response for a number of reasons. For example, Randall Farr believes that renting ensures that the right instrument is chosen. He says, "The staff at Ashtead Technology are highly experienced with a broad range of technologies and as such they are able to
recommend the best kit for the job, whereas clients that own their equipment tend to use what they've got whether it's appropriate or not. In addition, the experts at Ashtead Technology often provide technical assistance during the rental period to make sure customers get the best out of the equipment.
 
"Major incidents generate a very large requirement for equipment so our ability to
quickly mobilize a huge fleet of instruments is essential. For example, just last year, we supplied a large number of thermal imagers in response to an urgent request from organisations needing to assess the devastating effects of Hurricane Ike. In situations like this, rapid response teams tend to have a short-term requirement, so again, renting is the best option."

Ashtead Technology is a global business, but with facilities in Houston, Pasadena and Baton Rouge, the company is well placed to help with the aftermath of the Gulf of Mexico disaster. For more information on any of Ashtead Technology’s extensive fleet of rental or sales instruments, visit www.ashtead-technology.com

Contact Information:

Ashtead Technology
http://www.Ashtead-Technology.com

Contact Information:

ILMF
http://www.lidarmap.org

Topcon Corporation announces that it has entered into an agreement with Beijing Topcon Business and Trade Co., Ltd. (BTBT) to establish a new joint company in China.

In 2004, Topcon Corporation and BTBT, an exclusive distributor of Topcon products in China, jointly formed Topcon (Beijing) Opto-electronics Corporation, a manufacturing firm in Beijing, on which the new joint company is based.

The new company, Topcon (Beijing) Opto-electronics Development Corporation, will be jointly owned by Topcon Corporation, BTBT, and Topcon Positioning Systems, a wholly-owned US subsidiary of Topcon Corporation.

The new company will begin operation after completing registration procedures which are anticipated to be in July 2010.

Demand for the positioning instruments in China is expanding along with increasing infrastructure construction and modernization of the geographical information databases. The new joint company will manufacture GNSS receivers in addition to the existing optical product lineup, which includes GOWIN brand total stations, primarily sold in Chinese and other emerging markets.

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

ASPRS Past President Roger Crystal was recently named ASPRS Membership Development Leader.  This adjunct staff position was approved at the April 30, 2010 ASPRS Board Meeting in San Diego, California after the ASPRS Membership Committee determined that the ASPRS Regions could use additional help with their grassroots membership recruitment and retention efforts.

As Membership Development Leader, Crystal will work with ASPRS Region Officers to determine what kind of assistance is needed in each Region; take action on what is needed; and help articulate what "value" the Society brings (or could bring) to potential new members.  “The Board believes that this approach will help all of our 17 regions, but particularly the smaller regions who don’t have as many people to work on membership,” said ASPRS President Carolyn Merry.  “Our goal is to increase active memberships by 10% over the next 36 months and student and associate memberships by 100% over the next 36 months.”

Crystal expects his initial areas of concentration to be:
1. Supporting existing Member Champions and find ways to identify additional Member Champions.

2. Targeting non-member university/college faculty and encouraging them to become new members of the Society, with an expectation that they would expose their graduate and undergraduate students to the benefits of becoming student members.

3. Following student members as they finish their schooling and enter the workforce, and find ways to keep them engaged with the Society.

4. Working with the Regions (Regional Membership Officer and Committee) to pursue lapsed members and develop/maintain a data base on why these individuals leave the Society.

5. Exploring opportunities for using external support services that have expertise in addressing membership issues.

Progress reports will be given at the quarterly ASPRS Executive Committee meetings and twice yearly Board meetings in order to provide updates on the effectiveness of the efforts and to identify policy and/or resource issues to be addressed.
 
"We are pleased that Roger has agreed to contribute to the future of the Society through this important position,” said ASPRS Executive Director James Plasker. 
“He has many years of experience working on membership in the Columbia River Region and is well respected throughout our community.  I believe he will be able to extend his expertise to other ASPRS Regions and systemically improve regional membership recruitment and retention.”

Contact Information:

ASPRS
http://www.asprs.org

In a first of its kind effort, the Bureau of Reclamation's Engineering Services Office in Boulder City, NV, built a detailed, highly accurate, as-built model of Hoover Dam's 75-year-old Monument Plaza using high-definition surveying technology from Leica Geosystems.

Monument Plaza includes the Winged Figures of the Republic, two 30-foot high, statuary bronze sculptures that rest on a base of black diorite set atop a terrazzo floor. The floor is inlaid with a celestial map that pinpoints the precise astronomical time-September 30, 1935, 8:56 pm-when Franklin Delano Roosevelt dedicated the dam. Near the figures and elevated above the floor is a compass framed by the signs of the zodiac.  There is also a nearby plaque commemorating the 96 men who died during construction of the dam. 

The  terrazzo floor is cracking and showing weather damage as are some of the bronze features on the Plaza, likely due to weather, pedestrian traffic and age. To determine repair or rehabilitation options, Reclamation needed as-built data of the Plaza to within a fraction of an inch.

Alejandro Orosco, LSI, surveyor with Reclamation's Engineering Services Office, said, "We selected laser scanning because of the technology's overall price, performance, and ability to integrate with our existing software and hardware inventory." 

Orosco's team gathered over two million data points over the course of four days. They used Leica Cyclone 3D point cloud processing software to manage most of the point cloud data and Leica CloudWorx to translate data into Autodesk Civil 3D application.

"The results are impressive. In a very short time, we created a baseline 3D model of Monument Plaza that is helping us evaluate structural changes in a clear, visual manner. The scanner's capabilities have allowed us to cut down on field labor costs and capture a great deal of additional valuable data," says Orosco.

The results will ultimately help the agency determine the best method for restoring the plaza to its original condition. Using the free Leica TruView software, Reclamation and its partners are able to view, zoom in/out and rotate the model, measure distances, extract 3D coordinates, and create markups and hyperlinks.

Reclamation expects to contract an expert to review the facility history, scanner and survey data, and perhaps do some additional non-destructive geophysical exploration and core sampling in the next few months. With the consultant's recommendations and assistance, they can develop a plan for returning Monument Plaza to its original condition.

Contact Information:

Leica
http://www.leica-geosystems.com

Carlson Software, U.S.-based developer of technically advanced design software for land surveying, civil engineering, construction and mining industries, established its new branch office, Carlson EMEA BV, this June in the Netherlands to support and expand the Carlson business in  Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Joining Jan Bech in the United Kingdom and Jesus Latova in Spain to make up the Carlson EMEA team are four industry experts who formerly worked for the European Topcon Sokkia group. Bech has been handling Carlson’s European and Canadian sales for the past four years and is a specialist in Carlson desktop solutions and Latova is the director of Data Collection Product Design for Carlson.

New EMEA team members include Rob van Etten and Floris van den Hoeven, who both bring a high level of technical support expertise and years of field experience. Van Etten has a long track record as GNSS hardware/software expert and van den Hoeven is a specialist in optical survey solutions and software. Aart Bakker has extensive experience with product development and international sales. He will work closely with Marcel Goyvaerts, a senior in the survey industry for international marketing and sales management. They complete the EMEA team.

“We see a steadily growing market of Carlson software users in Europe and the Middle East,” says Goyvaerts, who will be leading the operation. “The interest in Carlson for its data collection, CAD-design software, and machine control solutions has grown substantially over the past 10 years. It makes sense to establish an office in Europe with experts speaking the local language and knowing local market requirements. Plus, customers will benefit with the eliminated time zone,” Goyvaerts continues.

Aart Bakker adds, “It is a huge challenge for our new team to bring the Carlson business in the EMEA area to similar leading levels like in Carlson’s home market, the United States. We have all ingredients in place; the right team, excellent products, a clear market focus and flexibility to meet with the many different market needs.”

Carlson Software works closely with partners like Ashtech and Sokkia, providing versions of its popular data collection software SurvCE (also well known as TRITON in Spain). In addition, Carlson works with Leica Geosystems, MOBA Mobile Automation, Prolec Ltd., Ongrade Ltd., and Transtronic on advanced Machine Control Solutions. Carlson EMEA will serve these partners, and also work to set up a distribution network of dedicated local dealers and strengthen “the local touch” in each market.

The Carlson EMEA BV office will be located in Almere, the Netherlands.

Contact Information:

Carlson Software
http://www.carlsonsw.com

St. Charles, IL - Harrison County, which was first formed in the year 1841, is located on the Gulf coast of the state of Mississippi.  The County sustained catastrophic damage in when it was struck by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Due to extensive rebuilding and renewal of the area, coupled with other circumstances beyond their control, the County recently found themselves faced with a significant backlog of map maintenance work, and at risk of not being in compliance with deadlines set by the Mississippi State Tax Commission (MSTC). They also were in need of optimizing their existing GIS data and software configuration for better access to GIS data resources. To assist them with their maintenance workflows, and map maintenance backlog, and GIS database optimization, the County selected The Sidwell Company to provide professional GIS technical services.

 

For the GIS data and software optimization, Sidwell’s technical staff will perform multiple days of on-site services and training at Harrison County to streamline and improve the performance of their existing ESRI ArcGIS based GIS solution. Data sources will be evaluated and reconfigured to ensure improved performance for County staff and for end users.  These professional services will ensure that the County’s GIS data is as up-to-date as reasonably possible and operating in an improved capacity. This  will help them achieve their goal of compliance with the MSTC deadlines. The knowledge transfer performed at the conclusion of the project is expected to help the County streamline their map maintenance operations and administration and allow them to avoid future backlog problems with their system.

 

In addition, Sidwell will perform of remote administration of the County’s ArcGIS Server installation. The first two months will focus on the provision of advanced remote administration of the geodatabase synchronization between Sidwell and Harrison County for the duration of the cadastral map maintenance backlog project being performed by Sidwell.  At the end of that phase, Sidwell will focus on general remote administration of the County's instance of ArcGIS Server.  This includes regular reconcile and post functions of GIS data, as well as standard best practice administration services.

Contact Information:

The Sidwell Company
http://www.sidwellco.com
Karen Fouts, Marketing Manager
630-549-1065
kfouts@sidwellco.com

Merrick & Company is providing light detection and ranging (LiDAR) services and products to the Northwest Florida Water Management District, Lake County, Illinois, and the University of Illinois.  The projects were made possible through
grants from the U.S. Geological Survey  and stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  The projects range in size from 335 square miles to 585 square miles.  The acquired data will be used for topographic modeling, urban planning, flood modeling and height modernization.

Contact Information:

Merrick
http://www.merrick.com

Eagle Mapping Ltd., a pioneer in the worldwide digital mapping industry, is upgrading its aerial data acquisition capabilities with the purchase of a Riegl VQ-480 LiDAR system and a DiMAC Ultralight medium-format camera. Eagle Mapping will combine the LiDAR and digital camera with a forward-looking video system to create a fully integrated airborne solution, primarily to map corridors and other linear features.

Established in 1985 to provide mapping services in support of global mining activities, Eagle Mapping is a full-service provider of topographic mapping, orthophotography, and fly-through 3D visualization. Among the first to offer LiDAR processing solutions, the Vancouver firm now serves public and private sector organizations that require mapping of utility corridors, coastal zones, watersheds, forests, geomorphology, and urban areas.
 
“Integration of the Riegl LiDAR, DiMAC camera and airborne video will enable us to offer a unique and cost-effective solution for mapping power transmission line corridors, pipeline rights- of-way, highways, coastlines, rivers and streams,” said Rodney Cope, Eagle Mapping Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

By integrating the three data acquisition systems, Eagle Mapping will be able to collect elevation data and imagery simultaneously during a single flight, resulting in a more accurate and cost-effective mapping solution. These data sets will be used to generate a variety of high-resolution orthorectified mapping products. All processing is performed at the Eagle Mapping headquarters in Vancouver, B.C.
 
“Fusion of diverse remote sensing data sets into high-quality map products has been the Eagle Mapping trademark for 25 years,” said Eagle Mapping President Lloyd Hume. “Simultaneous collection of three data sets by one aircraft significantly reduces the cost of corridor mapping.”
 
The Riegl VQ-480 LiDAR is designed for high-density scanning in a narrow field of view during low-altitude flight. Ideal for mapping corridors and rights-of-way, the new airborne laser scanner has a laser pulse repetition rate of 300,000 pulses per second making it capable of recording practically unlimited returns in order to capture bare-Earth digital elevation models in vegetative areas. It can also acquire complete elevation details for tall vertical features such as transmission line towers.
 
The DiMAC Ultralight camera is an excellent complement to the VQ-480. The medium-format camera is designed for operation at relatively low altitude and collection of high-resolution imagery. The light-weight, compact camera operates in either a fixed-wing turboprop aircraft or helicopter.
 
Eagle Mapping took delivery of the new LiDAR in March 2010 and expects to receive the DiMAC camera in mid-summer. The firm plans to incorporate the LiDAR, digital camera and video, along with a NovAtel inertial measurement unit (IMU) into a portable ‘module’ that can be shipped anywhere in the world for fast installation into a leased fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter. Each of the mapping system’s components is exportable to any nation without restrictions.

“We will be ready to roll out our new corridor mapping service to utilities, energy companies and pipeline operators by late summer 2010,” said James Hume, Eagle Mapping, VP of Operations.

Contact Information:

Eagle Mapping
http://www.EagleMapping.com

Océ, an international leader in digital document management, displayed its latest innovations in large format color and monochrome print/copy/scan systems and workflow software at booth #2679 during the 2010 American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Convention and Design Exposition, June 10 - 12 in Miami, FL. True to the theme of the convention, these solutions can help architecture and design firms “design for the new decade” with faster, more efficient ways to finish projects on time, under budget and with reduced risk.

“In an increasingly aggressive marketplace, the businesses that will remain on top are those that are constantly rethinking the traditional approach to project completion,” said Sal Sheikh, Vice President, Marketing, Océ Wide Format Printing Systems division of Océ North America. “The Océ solutions on display at the AIA Convention provide architecture and design firms with ways to maintain their competitive edge and win business. This includes an innovative strategy of advocating the use of color CAD document printing throughout the entire design/bid/build process.”
 
Building the Case for Color
Despite the inherent benefits of using color CAD documents – faster, more accurate decision-making, increased visual appeal and improved team member communication – many architecture and design firms still believe these advantages only accrue to project owners and contractors. At its booth, Océ will highlight the direct-to-architect benefits of designing, printing and publishing construction documents in color.

For example, offering color CAD capabilities is a competitive differentiator that can lead to increased business.  With the advantages of color, firms can offer project owners a process that delivers a quantifiable return on investment.  Current research shows that every dollar invested in color can save just over four dollars in overall project costs. And, because color improves the intelligibility of documents, requests for information and change orders are reduced. This leads to a win-win scenario as associated project management costs passed down to the architecture firm are also slashed.  

All-in-One Innovation for Easy Color Integration
Now, architecture firms no longer have to invest in separate systems for printing large format color and monochrome documents, making the jump to color more economical. On display at the convention, the new Océ ColorWave® 300 system is the world’s first integrated large format, single-footprint system for color and monochrome printing, copying and scanning.

The Océ ColorWave 300 system’s powerful controller easily handles the most widely used file formats, including HPGL/2, PDF, DWF and JPEG, without sacrificing speed. One simple, intuitive user panel controls all functions. Proven Océ Image Logic and Océ Dynamic Switching technologies ensure first-time-right results. And printing from or scanning to a USB stick provides even more user flexibility.

The system also supports user sustainability initiatives. Paper waste is eliminated by using automatic original and media size recognition and image positioning features to avoid misprints. Additionally, the system does not emit ozone, dust or odors into the work environment.

The Next Wave in Large Format Monochrome Technology
Similar to the adoption of color CAD printing, the architecture industry is also adapting to the trend of decentralized printing. And, with this trend comes a critical business need for a single footprint system that is easy to use, fits into small spaces, is able to withstand the workload of multiple walk-up users and does not sacrifice productivity. AIA attendees can see first-hand why the Océ PlotWave 300 print/copy/scan system is an ideal solution – combining simplicity, durability and energy efficiency in a single compact design.

Users can print and scan documents at the system with a USB flash drive, easily switch media rolls with automated roll changing, feed scanning originals in face-up with automatic width detection to decrease scanning errors, and a top delivery tray eliminates the risk of damaged or curled prints. Plus, a scroll and click panel and smart buttons make it easy to use for both experienced and new users. The system is constructed of solid, hard-wearing materials designed to make it last longer than comparable systems – perfect for firms looking to keep new equipment costs in check.

Utilizing patented Océ Radiant Fusing technology – the most efficient way to fuse toner onto paper – the Océ PlotWave 300 system starts up instantly, uses half the energy of comparable systems, makes no noise when it is idling and produces virtually no ozone emissions; making it the most energy efficient CAD plotter in its segment.

Simple Print Management for Decentralized AEC Environments
Visitors to Océ’s booth can also view the latest in print management software. Océ Repro Desk Studio software allows end users to easily build, preview, and submit print jobs to a wide variety of printers – whether from Océ or other brands, wide or small format, color or black & white, local or remote – all with the same user interface. It also allows jobs to be submitted to local printers or even to an external print provider. Specific workflow rules can be created for the automatic distribution of jobs to the most suitable printers, for example by document format, use of color or size of the print job.

Jobs can be created from multiple documents using the free Océ Client Tools print submission software. Individual documents can then be previewed before printing with true WYSIWYP functionality – What You See Is What You Print – that shows exactly how they will print on the selected printer, allowing accurate checking of document contents and print settings.

With its integrated job tracking and accounting capabilities, Océ Repro Desk Studio software is a significant advance in wide format print software functionality. The accounting features of Océ Repro Desk Studio software allow all print, scan and copy jobs on wide format devices to be tracked automatically. As well as optimizing internal cost control, these functions ensure that printing costs can be charged to projects or customers instead of disappearing into overhead.

Contact Information:

Océ
http://www.oceusa.com

MyTopo has added new 2009 aerial imagery for all of its products and services, including MyTopo large-format printed maps,  the MyTopo MapPass, and MyTopo Terrain Navigator Pro.

Here's a map linking to the updated imagery for MyTopo.

This update consists of 145,014 individual quarter-quadrangles.  This covers about 63% of the continental U.S., or roughly 1.9 million square miles (1.2 billion acres).

Log in today to check to see if new updates are available for your area of interest.

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Contact Information:

MyTopo
http://www.mytopo.com

Dale C. Swygert of Gilbert, SC, was elected President of the South Carolina Society of Professional Land Surveyors at their annual convention held in May at the Wild Dunes Resort in the Isle of Palms, SC.  Mr. Swygert will serve as President for the July 1, 2010 – June 30, 2011 fiscal year.  Dale has been employed by Survey & Mapping Services, Inc., since 1984, the same year he received his license.  He has served the SCSPLS as Secretary in 1998-99, Vice President in 1999-2000, Treasurer in 2001-2003, Vice President 2008-09, and on various committees.  He is also a past President and Surveyor of the Year of the Midlands Chapter. 
Dale is involved in his community as a member, past President & current Treasurer of the Hollow Creek Community Club.  He attends St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where he is the Financial Secretary, a Sunday School Teacher and a Youth Leader. Dale and his wife reside in Gilbert.

The SCSPLS also installed officers for the 2010-2011 Board of Directors as follows:
President-Elect: Kevin M. Schwacke of Charleston, SC
Vice President:  Benjamin B. Christensen of Aiken, SC
Secretary: Kent C. Hudson of Rock Hill, SC
Treasurer: Frankie Manhardt of Eutawville, SC
Immediate Past President: Lewis S. Moore of Johns Island, SC
NSPS Governor: Henry B. Dingle of Lexington, SC
District 1 Director: Charles F. Dawley, Jr. of Mt. Pleasant, SC
District 2 Director: Dennis G. Johns of Lexington, SC
District 3 Director: Thomas B. Abraham of Newberry, SC
District 4 Director: Dennis V. Clinkscales, of Spartanburg, SC
District 5 Director: E. Burnett Jenkins of York, SC
District 6 Director: Michael S. Culler, Jr., of Surfside Beach, SC

The South Carolina Society of Professional Land Surveyors recently honored Terry M. Watson, of Conway, SC, by selecting him South Carolina “Surveyor of the Year”
for 2010.  Mr. Watson was presented with this honor at the Society’s Annual Convention on May 22, 2010 at the Wild Dunes Resort in Isle of Palms Beach, South Carolina.  The Surveyor of the Year Award is presented annually by the
Society to a surveyor who has made outstanding contributions to the profession
of land surveying in the State of South Carolina.

Terry received his professional surveyor’s license in 1978 and has owned Terry M. Watson Land Surveying, Inc. since 1981.  He was instrumental in establishing the Grand Strand Chapter of SCSPLS where he has served as President.  He has been an active member of SCSPLS since 1979 and served as SCSPLS President  (1994-95) and on many committees serving as Chairman of the Education Committee.  Terry continues to serve on several community boards and is active in Career Day presentations at local schools.  He and his wife reside in Conway, SC.

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Contact Information:

SCSPLS
http://www.scspls.com/

Forces affecting the private geospatial profession such as government insourcing, sensor fusion, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), IVHS, consumer "apps", ethics, and cloud computing will be discussed during the MAPPS Summer Conference July 29 - August 2 in Lake Tahoe, NV.

The future of the Global Geospatial Intelligence (CGI) data production and how the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) is moving from a product based system to a database maintenance system will be presented in the keynote by Ms. Karen Thomas, Director, Source Assessment and Global Foundation at NGA.  Thomas will also highlight how this information will provide a new wave of the National System for GeoINT (NSG).

"Geospatial technology and the market in which our member firms do business is ever changing.  As usual, our program committee has met this challenge by designing a schedule of timely sessions," said Jeff Lovin, PS, CP, (Woolpert, Inc., Dayton, OH), MAPPS President. "Thanks to Eric Andelin (Bohannan Huston Inc., Dallas, TX) and his committee, a lively program that will educate business owners and senior executives on the changing technology and business threats and opportunities will highlight the conference."

Technical sessions will include topics on cloud computing; Intelligent Vehicle and Highway Systems (IVHS); mobile device and web based applications in Location Based Services (LBS) and the future technical and business opportunities available; sensor fusion; bathy/hydro mapping, and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

Business trends such as the threat of government insourcing, how the health care reform legislation will affect both business and personal coverage, ethics in the geospatial profession and market opportunities such as the development of smart phone applications using geospatial data and technology will be discussed.
MAPPS will present the results of its recently conducted survey of salary and non-cash benefits programs in its member firms and the fourth semi-annual economic survey of the membership. The conference will also include the annual MAPPS business meeting and elections for Board of Directors.

A full conference program and matrix is available on the MAPPS website.
Visit the PSM Calendar for more Industry Events.

Contact Information:

MAPPS
http://www.mapps.org

Publications in Construction and Agriculture (PICA), a subgroup of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), has named George Smith of Topcon Positioning Systems in Livermore, California as its Public Relations Person of the Year. Smith is Topcon's Director of Communications Services, managing both internal and external communications.

Senior editors at PICA publications choose the Public Relations Person of the Year as an outstanding example of "best practices" in media relations. The criteria the group uses to evaluate nominees include reliability, accuracy, quality of information provided, trustworthiness and integrity.

PICA is one of AEM's product-specific working groups. It promotes high operating standards among off-road equipment manufacturing industry trade media worldwide and fosters continuing educational and informational exchanges between manufacturers, industry suppliers and trade media.

Contact Information:

Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM)
Pat Monroe
414-298-412
pmonroe@aem.org

“Since the introduction of the first auto level AT model in 1961, Topcon has been a world leader of auto level technology for 50 years,” said LeRoy Sorenson, TPS product marketing manager. “Since 1990, the previous AT-G series has been the bestseller models for more than two decades. The new AT-B series sets a new standard for auto levels used in surveying, engineering and construction applications.”

The AT-B series can focus on objects at 20cm (7.9in.) in front of the telescope, while previous models provided 50cm or 1m (1.6ft. or 3.3ft.) minimum focusing distance. “This feature dramatically facilitates the works in confined spaces,” said Sorenson.

The compensator of AT-B series incorporates four suspension wires made of extremely high-tensile metal that features minimal thermal expansion coefficient, “providing unmatched durability and accuracy even in the harshest environmental conditions,” said Sorenson. “Its finely tuned magnetic damping system quickly levels and stabilizes the line of sight despite the fine vibrations present when working near heavy equipment or busy roadways.”

With the IPx6 rating, the instrument is protected against powerful water jets from all directions, “meaning the AT-B series withstands a sudden shower or torrential rainfall.” Sorenson said, “The advanced protection design not only prevents water penetration, but also deters clouding or condensation inside the telescope.

“With the AT-B series, we have streamlined the product lineup to make users’ choices as simple as possible. The three selected models will satisfy all levels of requirements from surveying to engineering, from use in open field to underground,” said Sorenson.

The three models available are:
- AT-B2: 32x magnification (40x optional), 0.7mm accuracy (0.5mm with an optional micrometer)
- AT-B3: 28x, 1.5mm accuracy
- AT-B4: 24x, 2.0mm accuracy

(Accuracy specifications are based on 1km double-run leveling.)

Other features of AT-B series include:
- Superior telescope design provides clear and bright view
- 2-speed focus (AT-B2 model)
- Horizontal circle is covered for protection against dirt and scratching
- Optional accessories include diagonal eyepiece, 40x eyepiece (AT-B2) and optical micrometer for 0.1mm or 0.001ft. readings (AT-B2)

Contact Information:

Topcon
http://www.topconpositioning.com

Intuicom, Inc., a leader in wireless data solutions, announces the release of the license- free SLR 900 - an integrated transceiver module for the Leica VIVA GS15 receiver.

This new high-performance data link, developed specifically for Leica Geosystems,
provides a modular 900 MHz communication link for the transmission and receipt
of RTK corrections. 

Built upon the “best-in-class” performance of Intuicom’s 900 MHz products, the SLR 900 provides the following key features:

• Simple Installation: Slot in Radio inserts directly into VIVA GS15 receiver
• Easy Setup: Configurable thru Leica Viva CS10/CS15 controllers
• Single-Unit Operation: Configurable as Base, Rover or Rover/Repeater
• Field Rugged: Once inserted into the GS15, it meets the VIVA environmental specifications of IP67.
• License Free Operation in North America and Beyond: No user licensing is required for the US, Canada, and other parts of the world.
• Network RTK Support: Compatible with Intuicom RTK Bridge (900 MHz) product offerings.
• 2-Year Warranty: Low cost of operation
• Supports Legacy Equipment:  Compatible with Intuicom 1200 Data Links and other Intuicom 900 MHz products.

“The SLR 900 offers the Leica Viva users ease of operation and high performance in a license-free solution,” said Peter Miller, Director of Engineering for Intuicom, Inc. “This product also benefits customers with existing equipment as it is compatible with previous generations of 900 MHz radios as well as the Intuicom RTK Bridge for Network RTK”.

Contact Information:

Intuicom
http://www.Intuicom.com

Trimble is holding its 2010 Surveying Student Paper Competition. The winning student author will have the opportunity to present their survey application paper at Trimble Dimensions 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada.  The winner will receive a trip to the conference plus 3 nights’ accommodations to take part in Trimble’s internationally recognized conference with surveying professionals from around the world.

In addition, the winning student’s school will also receive a Trimble R8 GNSS System.

Entries will be accepted from June 14 - August 15. Judging will occur from August 16 - September 21. The winner will be announced on September 22, 2010. For more information about the competition and to how to submit a paper, visit: www.Trimble.com/StudentPaper

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://www.Trimble.com/StudentPaper

As Bosnia develops into a mature, representative democracy, the role of local governments and municipalities grows in importance. The Governance Accountability Project (GAP) for Bosnia and Herzegovina, supported by US Agency for International Development (USAID), the Swedish International Development Cooperative Agency (SIDA) and the Embassy of the Netherlands, is helping to build the capacity of Bosnian municipalities to better serve their citizens. As a part of this effort, GAP has recently purchased 46 Ashtech ProMark 3 RTK GPS receivers to help cadastre offices in 23 municipalities to support municipal capital improvement projects and simplify procedures for urban construction and land use administration.

Ashtech ProMark 3 RTK GPS receivers were chosen by GAP because they meet all the technical requirements of the Federal Geodetic Authority for use in land administration.  In addition, GAP required a brand name device with strong local support, local language interface, and on-site training in every municipality with real data problems. Gauss GeoInformation Systems, the local Ashtech dealer, was identified as a company with good technical knowledge, and a large base of existing users.  There are almost 200 ProMark series receivers in everyday use in Bosnia and many more Ashtech receivers bearing the MobileMapper series brand name.

Contact Information:

Ashtech
http://www.ashtech.com

Using online mapping services to add vicinity maps to drawings is a common
practice. Sometimes you wish you could tweak the vicinity map, maybe make it simpler to focus on the subject area, for example. Enter Microsoft’s Bing Destination Maps.

Described by Gizmodo.com as “whimsical, practical and incredibly useful,” this application is located within Bing’s Maps’ function and offers cool customization tools. Read New Bing Maps Cut the Chaff and Leave a Treasure Map.

Trimble and Russian Space Systems announced today that they have signed a definitive agreement to form a joint venture in Russia.

The joint venture, Rusnavgeoset, will be officially launched at the GLONASS Forum in Moscow on June 1, 2010.

Rusnavgeoset, 50 percent owned by Trimble and 50 percent owned by Russian Space Systems, will be responsible for selling commercial Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) geodetic network infrastructure systems localized for Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Rusnavgeoset will be based in Moscow. Operations will begin following the completion of the joint  venture's registration, which is expected to be in June 2010.

Contact Information:

Trimble
http://www.trimble.com

The ISPRS  "Karl Kraus Medal" is a prize to honour the authorship of excellent textbooks in the scientific fields of Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, and Spatial Information Sciences. The prize is dedicated to the memory of Professor Karl Kraus, a passionate teacher and author of a number of textbooks.

The winner of the award for 2010 is ‘Close Range Photogrammetry:  Principles, Techniques and Applications’ by Professor Thomas Luhmann, (Institute of Applied Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics, University for Applied Sciences, Oldenburg, Germany), Professor  Stuart Robson, (University College London), Dr. Stephen Kyle, (Consultant; Hon. Research Fellow, University College London), and 
Professor Ian Harley, (Emeritus Professor, University College London).  Published by Whittles Publishing, Dunbeath, Scotland.

The award will be presented at the ISPRS Centenary Celebration in Vienna on 4th
July 2010. 

The chairman of the jury reported that “…. the 7 nominated and reviewed books - with an impressive overall volume of some 4500 pages - were all of very high quality and made the decision of the Jury no simple task.”

Contact Information:

ISPRS
http://www.isprs.org

MAPPS President Jeff Lovin CP, PS, urged West Virginia geospatial practitioners to become more politically active, calling on the community "to be active, rather than passive", in order for the United States "to realize the full potential of GIS".

In the keynote address, "On the Map: Building a Better America Through Increased Use of Geospatial Technology", presented at the West Virginia GIS Conference at Marshall University, Huntington, WV, Lovin said, "'Lobbying' is not a dirty or four-letter word, it is a Constitutional right, guaranteed by the First Amendment.  It is 'educating' lawmakers."

Lovin, a Vice President of Woolpert, Inc., Dayton, OH, outlined the program and activities of MAPPS, including an agenda of Federal legislation providing for geospatial applications.  He also presented a long list of national issues -- including Climate Change/Cap & Trade, Energy/Smart-Grid, Jobs/Employment & Economic Development/Recovery, Health Care, Emergency Management/Response, Environment /Sustainable Development & High Performing Communities, Homeland & National Security, Highways, Transportation & Infrastructure - that are all on the Congressional & Obama Administration agendas, require data from the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) to be successful, and all lack any geospatial provision in the relevant bills in Congress. 

"And the data to effectively implement these bills does not currently exist in any comprehensive, accessible form," Lovin said.  He noted that "MAPPS is working to raise awareness in Congress" and called on others in the geospatial community to join the MAPPS effort.

Contact Information:

MAPPS
http://www.MAPPS.org

Local governments interested in learning how to effectively use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to benefit their operations can attend a free seminar sponsored by The Schneider Corporation this June and July in locations throughout the Midwest.

The seminar series, titled “X Marks The Spot: A treasure trove of GIS solutions for local governments,” will include a two-hour presentation of case studies from more than 10 different county and municipal governments that deployed creative GIS solutions in a variety of areas including public safety, cost savings/efficiency, finding revenue and asset inventory.  Case studies will focus on problems the local governments needed to solve, the solutions they deployed, and the results they have achieved.

The seminar series will be presented at four locations:  Davenport, Iowa (June 28), Faribault, Minn. (June 29), Elk Point, S.D. (June 30) and Kansas City, Mo. (July 1). 

Visit the PSM Events Calendar for more upcoming industry events.

Contact Information:

The Schneider Corporation
http://www.schneidercorp.com/x/

UniversalPegasus International’s Vice President of Business Development, Craig Pierrotti recently named Gary Hymel as the Onshore Director of Business Development.

Gary Hymel is a graduate of Louisiana State University.  With 15 years experience in the Engineering Services division of the commercial construction industry, his
experience in management and sales positions has established a reputation for excellence.  Mr. Hymel will be responsible for all UniversalPegasus domestic onshore business development and is committed to showing intelligence, honesty, and efficiency to representing clients. 

Craig Pierrotti believes this addition to the Company will enhance his goals for the UniversalPegasus Business Development Team.  “Gary Hymel brings his  professional management background to the Onshore Division, and will provide the leadership skills needed to establish and grow the team.” says Pierrotti. 

Contact Information:

UniversalPegasus
http://www.UniversalPegasus.com

Aero-Photo (1961) Inc. has contracted with Vexcel Imaging GmbH, a Microsoft company, to purchase an additional UltraCamLp medium-format camera system. This purchase closely follows the purchase of two UltraCamLp and one UltraCamXp large-format camera system in March 2010.

Aero-Photo is continuing the process of repositioning itself in the North American market by investing in the up-to-date technical resources available. The company will use the new camera to provide aerial data collection services for forest inventories, mapping, engineering, mining and corridors.

"Our latest acquisition of an UltraCamLp camera will provide Aero-Photo (1961) with more flexibility to respond quickly to the needs of our customers,” stated Mr. Paul Grenier, President of Aero-Photo (1961) Inc. “We feel that it is important to have adequate resources to run multiple projects simultaneously to keep up with the growing demand for aerial acquisition."

The UltraCamLp  is a unique camera system addressing the medium-format market with large-format image quality and efficiency; it is also suitable for smaller aircraft and projects requiring a rapid response. The camera provides the same high geometric accuracy, broad dynamic range, matching and stereo capabilities, and full metric capabilities as the UltraCamX, UltraCamXp, and UltraCamXp Wide Angle  large-format cameras.

“The fact that Aero-Photo (1961) has purchased four digital camera systems from Vexcel Imaging in the first half of 2010 is an indication of the great value for the price that our customers enjoy,” said Alexander Wiechert, Business Director of Microsoft and Managing Director for Vexcel Imaging GmbH. “The UltraCamLp is a highly versatile medium-format camera system that is suitable for many types of projects.”

Contact Information:

Aero-Photo, Vexcel
http://www.aerophoto.ca

Software from Pointools is being used to create 3D walk through models to explore the viability of laser scanning on the moon and mars.  Researchers from Navajo Technical College together with representatives from NASA and New Mexico Tech laser scanned a volcanic formation in New Mexico gathering 240 million individual measurements. Using Pointools software the data was processed to create an immersive and interactive 3D computer model from which NASA scientists can assess the potential of laser scanning for future missions.

The survey party, using a Faro LS 120 laser scanner, mapped the four windows lava tube in the El Malpais National Park collecting eight individual scans each composed of 30 million points. The project was designed to understand the viability of laser scanning lava tubes and other formations on the moon and mars and to provide examples of the type of data laser scanning could collect and the information that could be interpreted from the laser mapping.  

“This project was a proof of concept for NASA to determine what kind of data could be acquired by sending a rover vehicle, equipped with laser scanner, into a lave tube or cave on the moon or mars,” commented H Scott Halliday, Course Leader at Navajo Technical College. “From the Pointools model we can make an evaluation of the type of structures that can be picked up and conclude whether it is possible to determine water, ice and or micro organisms. This was great experience for the students and both NASA and New Mexico Tech have been impressed with the results.”

The Pointools generated walk through clearly shows members of the survey team and survey equipment together with ice formations and details of past volcanic activity. “We selected Pointools software for this project as it seemed to be the easiest and most appropriate software to utilise that would create the type of walk through visualisations required. We are exploring ways of only modelling what need to be modelled and using more of the point cloud data in 3D visualisations and simulations,” concluded Halliday.

Contact Information:

Pointools
http://www.Pointools.com

Trimble and Definiens, a Germany-based company specializing in image analysis solutions, today announced Trimble’s acquisition of Definiens’ Earth Sciences business assets and licensing of its software technology platform in an all-cash transaction. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Definiens’ Earth Sciences business includes eCognition software, an advanced image analysis software suite for geospatial applications that facilitates fast and accurate geo-information extraction from remote sensing imagery. The “original” object-based image analysis (OBIA) software has been used by industry leading data providers, remote sensing professionals, and university researchers in urban planning, forestry, agriculture, energy, insurance, and security for nearly a decade. eCognition software is scalable and offers a comprehensive range of tools to create powerful image analysis applications that can handle all common data sources, such as medium- to high-resolution satellite, high-resolution aerial photography, laser scanner, radar, and hyperspectral data.

“eCognition software speeds the creation of answers from geospatial sensor data,” said Ken Spratlin, general manager of Trimble’s GeoSpatial Division. “Timely and
accurate answers can empower organizations to operate more efficiently, with less waste and rework, and provide enhanced capabilities for decision making. We see significant potential to realize synergies between eCognition and Trimble’s geospatial technologies as well as other solutions that may include image analysis.”
 
“Trimble’s acquisition of Definiens’ Earth Sciences business is a perfect fit for both
organizations,” said Thomas Heydler, CEO of Definiens. “eCognition offers Trimble world class image analysis capabilities to complement its broad range of geospatial products and solutions, while allowing Definiens to dedicate its focus to image analysis in the healthcare industry.”
 
The patented Definiens Cognition Network Technology was developed by 1986 Nobel Laureate Prof. Gerd Binnig and his team. The technology platform emulates human cognitive processes of perception to extract intelligence from images. The power behind the innovative technology is its ability to quickly and easily transform user knowledge and domain expertise into automatic routines. Definiens applies advanced machine learning concepts to train the software and render this
knowledge in a production environment, enabling the software to automatically process millions of images.

The operating results of the acquired business will be reported within Trimble’s
Engineering and Construction segment.

Contact Information:

Trimble, Definiens
http://www.trimble.com

The National Geodetic Survey held its 2010 Federal Geospatial Summit last May in Silver Spring, MD. Proposed improvements to the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS) were discussed, including plans for replacing NAD 83 and NAD 88. Presentations and handouts from the summit are now available online at the NGS website.

SuperGeo Technologies develops a mobile GIS application for investigating the ecological environment in Hsiang-Shan Wetland. Through the collected data, analysts can effectively predict the impacts on the environment from economical development and meanwhile monitor the carrying capacity of development.
 
Sized 1,600 hectares, Hsiang-Shan Wetland is the biggest seashore wetland in northern Taiwan containing plentiful ecological system and abundant organic materials as well as species. Currently, there are nearly 300 kinds of resident birds and migratory birds, and more than 40 kinds of crabs, quantitating two hundred and fifty million crabs inhibiting in the Wetland
 
To avoid damage to the ecology from economic development is an important issue though. To solve this, the related unit utilizes GIS technologies for analyzing and integrating related resources to significantly minimize the impact on ecological environment and human economy.
 
The mass of data and the complex investigation items are big challenges that need to be overcome in the case. Thus, a mobile GIS application is applied in the investigation system. Using SuperPad, the full-function mobile GIS software, field surveyors are enabled to collect data, draw map, use GPS navigation etc. in the field. The first-hand data can therefore be collected efficiently and accurately for advanced analysis.
 
On the other hand, to make the applications of SuperPad meet the demands of field-workers more, SuperPad Studio, the development framework, is applied to customize SuperPad. Users can then customize user interface and forms further according to their needs for more specific functions and convenience. 
 
To sum up, the project employs SuperPad as the main operation system to survey and collect complicated ecological data for detailed studies on land-use and coastal ecology. This can help the related staff control the biological resources and minimize the impacts on ecological environment and human economy. The thorough analysis can be the research base of ecological spatialization of environment management.
  
For more information, go to http://www.supergeotek.com/Library_2_201006.aspx

Contact Information:

SuperGeo Technologies
http://www.supergeotek.com/index.aspx
Sarah Liu
886-2-25467700
sarahliu@supergeotek.com

Twelve student teams from the United States and Canada have won the 2010 AEM Construction Challenge presented by Volvo Construction Equipment during the Global Finals competition of Destination ImagiNation. The competition took place May 26-29 at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

This year’s AEM Construction Challenge asked each student team to build a device that effectively delivered construction materials over a barrier to targets they
were unable to see, which required innovation, mathematics, and engineering and
design skills. 

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) initiated the AEM Construction
Challenge in 2007 as a response to the severe shortage of qualified workers to
meet future construction needs. As a sign of its success, Volvo Construction
Equipment signed on as the presenting sponsor of the competition.

“It takes time to build an understanding with young people so they can see how our industry creates a quality of life and makes us globally competitive,” said Al Cervero, senior vice president at AEM.  “It takes a constant communication to ‘move the needle’ and the Construction Challenge is one big important way to accomplish that goal.  We congratulate each team that participated in 2010 and we look forward to seeing them in 2011 in Las Vegas at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG exposition, where the entire construction industry will have a chance to meet this new generation.”
 
The AEM Construction Challenge offers a chance for students, teachers, parents and community leaders to learn more about the construction industry and the need for skilled employees to deal with infrastructure problems that include crumbling bridges, overcrowded roadways, and aging water and wastewater systems.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment in the construction industry is projected to increase by 1.3 million jobs by 2018.
 
Göran Lindgren, president of Volvo Construction Equipment North America, explained that Volvo is committed to helping tomorrow’s workers develop the right skills now. “The prosperity of our industry very much depends on the availability of a qualified workforce. We at Volvo are committed to supporting efforts that develop the workforce of tomorrow. We look forward to working with AEM on promoting the value of construction and the construction industry in communities across North America," Lindgren said.
 
The AEM Construction Challenge blends the creative problem-solving methodology of Destination ImagiNation with subject matter from AEM to create a program that engages youth in a fun learning experience and exposes them to new careers in the construction industry. After the first year, nearly 70 percent of AEM Construction Challenge participants said they are now considering a career in construction.
 
The finals of the 2011 AEM Construction Challenge presented by Volvo Construction Equipment will return to where it began: the CONEXPO-CON/AGG
exhibition in Las Vegas in March 2011. This international gathering place for the construction industry showcases the latest equipment, products, services and technologies and is one of the largest trade shows in North America of any industry. AEM is show producer and a show owner.

Contact Information:

AEM
http://www.aem.org

The Coalition of Geospatial Organizations (COGO) announced today that the Coalition recently endorsed a resolution urging the Obama Administration to take action to improve K-12 education in geography and geospatial skills.  COGO endorsed a slightly modified version of a similar resolution proposed by the Association of American Geographers, a COGO founding member.

The primary reason for COGO’s endorsement of this resolution now is that Congress is scheduled to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), commonly known as “No Child Left Behind,” for the first time in almost a decade, but no mention is made in the reauthorization regarding geography education.  The resolution endorsed by COGO is included below.  COGO urges others to contact their Congressional delegations to support changes to the ESEA.

Contact Information:

The Coalition of Geospatial Organizations
http://www.urisa.org/cogo

This must-have code commentary book will be available for online access at MADCAD.com eLibrary starting next week. The commentary includes the full text of the code, including tables and figures, followed by corresponding commentary. This in-depth publication focuses on providing the full meaning and implications of the 2009 International Building Code.

Limited-time 10% Introductory Discount 
Subscribe until June 15, and take advantage of the 10% introductory discount.

Contact Information:

MADCAD
http://www.madcad.com
Erdem Dedebas
202-265-1940 ext.207
ededebas@madcad.com

Cape Town Stadium is one of the 10 host venues for the 19th FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Several matches will be played at this stadium with a capacity of 70,000, the first on 11 June when Uruguay will be facing France. To mark the occasion, EADS Astrium subsidiary Spot Image reports the bold architectural design with a product demonstration of the future Pléiades satellite at 50 cm resolution.

Contact Information:

Spot Image
http://www.spot.com/?countryCode=US&languageCode=en

To celebrate the opening of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, AAM and partner company, AOC Geomatics, have released two products on their websites: movies/fly throughs of the stadiums in 3D and a free World Cup Stadium Viewer.

The World Cup Stadium Viewer is quick and easy to use. Simply click onto one of the soccer balls to open up a Pictometry captured image of the stadium, then click onto the stadium image to start an interactive experience of the stadium with perspectives: north, south, east, west and vertical.

Each stadium is being showcased using Pictometry Online®. Pictometry Online provides automatic and instant access to oblique and vertical views in an intuitive, easy-to-use web interface. Users have online access to measurement tools such as building height, roof pitch and area which is the unique differentiator of this product from anything else available. AAM and AOC are constantly updating their Pictometry Online coverage, with extensive coverage already available over South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

AAM and AOC have also released three new 3D building models of the South African World Cup Stadiums on their websites. Movies of these 3D building models showcase the different angles and views over Soccer City Stadium, Green Point Stadium and Ellis Park Stadium.

Experience the venues via our movies and interactive imagery at www.aamgroup.com or www.aoc.co.za 
 

Contact Information:

AAM
http://www.aamgroup.com
Megan Bock, Marketing Coordinator
07 3620 3111
info@aamgroup.com

PCI Geomatics, a world leading developer of geo-imaging software and systems will be exhibiting and speaking at the upcoming Canadian Geomatics Conference 2010 in Calgary, Alberta, June 15 to 18. The Conference will focus on the largely untapped potential of Intelligent Mapping and the critical role Geomatics can play in bolstering Canada’s productivity, innovation, global competitiveness and overall socio-economic well-being.

Peter Hazlett, Product Manager at PCI Geomatics will speak to attendees on June 16 at 3:30pm about GeoImaging Tools – a new suite of tools which allow users to import accurate imagery from multiple sources in their ArcGIS workflows.  Hazlett will highlight the benefits of these highly automated tools for correcting raw satellite imagery, which is revolutionizing the integration of remotely sensed imagery into GIS workflows.

“PCI Geomatics provides the necessary tools to automatically achieve high levels of accuracy for image registration and directly integrates into ESRI’s imagery workflow, therefore eliminating the need for data duplification from one software system to another,” said Terry Moloney, Interim President and CEO, PCI Geomatics.

Designed with GIS users in mind, the GeoImaging Tools Image Correction Module can be beneficial to multiple industries with its automation and multi-sensor support.

Conference attendees will also learn more about PCI Geomatics’ offerings including:   GeoImaging Accelerator, a high performance system with accelerated GPU based performance; and GeoConference, real-time interactive geospatial conferencing.  Throughout the conference, PCI Geomatics staff will be available in Booth #202 for on-site demonstrations and further discussions.

For more information about the Canadian Geomatics Conference, please visit www.geoconf.ca.

Contact Information:

PCI Geomatics
http://www.pcigeomatics.com/gitools

Tired of downloading and paying for large amounts of map data before you need to use it? Managing cumbersome, budget-draining geospatial datasets in-house is now a thing of the past.

Intermap Technologies' new Web services portal, TerrainOnDemand, gives you easy access to wide-area 3D digital elevation data, from any computer, any time. Our cloud-based portal serves as your central access point for locating, purchasing, and analyzing highly reliable NEXTMap digital terrain data.

This OGC-compliant Web platform allows you to benefit from the full content of our data thanks to its Web Map Service (WMS) and Web Coverage (WCS) capabilities, including the ability to display geo-registered images as well as provide you with elevation components for your area of interest. All of this can be easily accessed through either a GIS-client within existing software or a Web interface via a straightforward subscription payment model.

Not only is TerrainOnDemand designed to complement and extend your existing processing environment through our hosting and managing of the data – if need be, it can be custom-hosted to meet your specific needs. Since it is built on top of a fully secure and authenticated data management layer, TerrainOnDemand ensures that you remain in complete control of the data.

Contact Information:

InterMap
http://www.intermap.com

Aerial Cartographics of America (ACA) of Orlando, Fla., has completed the first year of aerial image acquisition and has begun its 2010 flights as part of a 1600-square-mile, three-year contract with Tampa Bay Water.

ACA was selected for the Tampa Bay Water mapping contract after demonstrating the improved clarity and resolution of false color infrared imagery (CIR) acquired by its Vexcel UCX Digital Mapping Large Format Camera. The approximately 1600 square miles of imagery, flown twice a year, is used to compare and analyze changes in wetland vegetation and hydrological surface conditions in the area for which Tampa Bay Water delivers high quality drinking water.

Tampa Bay Water (www.tampabaywater.org) provides wholesale water to the public utility systems of Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties as well as the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg, and Tampa.
 
Dan Schmutz, Chief Environmental Scientist for GPI Southeast, Inc., which provides environmental services support to Tampa Bay Water and performs QA/QC for the current mapping project, commented, “The overall quality of imagery collected from the UCX Digital Mapping camera system — including enhanced resolution, spatial accuracy, and color characteristics — improves our ability to document ecological and hydrological conditions in Tampa Bay Water’s study area.”

Contact Information:

ACA
http://www.aca-net.com