The GIS Lens 
Sanjay Gangal
Sanjay Gangal is the President of IBSystems, the parent company of AECCafe.com, MCADCafe, EDACafe.Com, GISCafe.Com, and ShareCG.Com. Bentley Systems Announces Groundbreaking Innovations and Strategic Acquisitions at the Year in Infrastructure Conference in VancouverOctober 15th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
VANCOUVER, B.C. — At Bentley Systems’ Year in Infrastructure Conference this week, the global infrastructure software leader unveiled a series of innovative product updates, key acquisitions, and strategic partnerships that promise to redefine infrastructure design, construction, and operations. With a clear focus on openness, AI-powered digital twins, and cross-platform collaboration, the conference set the stage for Bentley’s vision of a more connected and efficient infrastructure future.
Embracing Openness and Digital Twins: The Future of InfrastructureJulien Moutte, chief technology officer at Bentley Systems, emphasized Bentley’s deep commitment to openness, calling it the “backbone of our digital twin strategy.” As infrastructure projects become more complex, the need for seamless data integration across tools and systems becomes paramount. Bentley’s iTwin platform was developed to address this challenge, ensuring that data is created, managed, and consumed in a centralized environment without the fragmentation that plagues traditional project workflows. Moutte explained that the iTwin platform serves as more than just a data hub. “It offers a way for engineers, contractors, and asset managers to collaborate effectively, with data that remains accessible and relevant throughout the entire lifecycle of an infrastructure asset.” This open approach ensures that users can integrate third-party tools, leverage domain-specific expertise, and use data in ways that fit their evolving needs. Moutte also stressed the importance of longevity in data management. “Your data is your data,” he said, underscoring Bentley’s commitment to data autonomy. “By promoting open standards, open-source tools, and open APIs, we are making sure that data remains interoperable and usable for decades.” This openness ensures that Bentley’s solutions can integrate seamlessly with other systems, future-proofing infrastructure projects and reducing operational risks. CopterPIX: Pioneering Advanced Drone Technology for Global ApplicationsSeptember 16th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At the recent Commercial UAV Conference in Las Vegas, I had the opportunity to sit down with Igal Yarmolinsky, VP of Sales at CopterPIX, an Israeli-based drone manufacturer that’s making waves in the industry. Since its founding in 2014, CopterPIX has grown from a small company into a leading provider of high-performance drones designed for both military and civilian applications. The company’s rise to prominence was marked by its exclusive contract with the Israeli Ministry of Defense, a deal that positioned CopterPIX as a serious player in the drone market. “We started manufacturing our own drones in 2018, and since then, we’ve secured several major tenders, including one where we beat industry giants like IAI, Elbit Systems and Rafael,” Yarmolinsky explained. As a result, CopterPIX is now the exclusive supplier of drones under 25 kilograms for the Ministry of Defense through 2027.  CopterPIX’s Hybrid Parallel Drone One of the key factors that differentiates CopterPIX from competitors is its 360-degree turnkey solution. This approach allows the company to handle all aspects of drone production in-house, from design to manufacturing, ensuring rapid customization based on customer needs. “We don’t outsource anything. Every component and system is built and integrated by our team, which allows us to offer drones that can operate in challenging conditions, such as GPS-denied environments, spoofing attempts or areas without LTE coverage,” Yarmolinsky said. At the conference, CopterPIX unveiled its latest innovation – the Rhino hybrid parallel drone. Unlike most hybrid drones that rely primarily on electric motors, this new model combines two combustion engines with four electric motors, enabling it to lift heavier payloads over longer distances. “Right now, we can lift 20 kilograms for apx. 50Km, but by mid-2025, we’ll be able to carry up to 100 kilograms for a distance of 100 kilometers & 2 hours endurance,” Yarmolinsky noted. This advancement is expected to have far-reaching implications, particularly for industries such as oil and gas, where long-range inspections and supply deliveries are crucial to current operations. Read the rest of CopterPIX: Pioneering Advanced Drone Technology for Global Applications Trimble’s Unity Software Revolutionizes Infrastructure Asset ManagementAugust 30th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the effective management of public infrastructure and capital improvement projects is more critical than ever. Trimble, a global leader in location-based technology solutions, is at the forefront of addressing these challenges with its innovative Unity software suite. I recently had the opportunity to discuss the transformative impact of Trimble’s Unity with Douglas Reichard, the State Government Market Manager at Trimble, who provided insights into how this comprehensive software solution is reshaping the way infrastructure assets are managed. Addressing Legacy Challenges with Modern SolutionsReichard highlighted the core data challenges faced by owners of capital improvement projects, particularly those relying on outdated legacy systems. These older systems often involve proprietary data formats and analog processes that hinder efficiency. “Most of the current technology used by agencies is legacy-based,” Reichard noted. “This means older architectures and proprietary data formats that limit interaction and create unnecessary steps.” These inefficiencies can result in significant operational cost overruns, with Reichard estimating an 8% to 15% float in costs due to outdated systems. Trimble’s Unity software suite is designed to tackle these issues head-on by streamlining processes and integrating with existing systems to reduce these cost burdens.
GIS-Centric Integration for Seamless OperationsAt the heart of Trimble Unity’s effectiveness is its deep integration with Esri’s ArcGIS, a leading geospatial platform. Reichard emphasized that rather than reinventing the wheel, Trimble chose to build on existing, proven technologies. “Unity Maintain, part of our Unity suite, is highly integrated into ArcGIS,” he explained. “Mapping and geolocation are built into the system, making it intuitive and user-friendly.” This integration is not just about ease of use; it’s about ensuring that data is where it needs to be when it needs to be there. Trimble Unity’s open architecture supports the use of modern API stacks, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of tools and systems, both Trimble and non-Trimble. This open approach allows agencies to leverage their existing technology investments while enhancing their capabilities with Trimble’s advanced solutions. Read the rest of Trimble’s Unity Software Revolutionizes Infrastructure Asset Management Felt: Revolutionizing Digital Mapping for the Cloud EraAugust 8th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In the rapidly evolving world of geospatial technology, where cloud-native solutions are becoming increasingly critical, Felt is positioning itself as a game-changer. Founded by Sam Hashemi, a designer with a rich history in modernizing legacy systems, Felt aims to be the premier platform for creating and sharing maps online. It is not just another GIS tool; it is a comprehensive, cloud-native solution designed to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructures, making mapping more accessible, collaborative, and powerful than ever before. Hashemi’s journey began with a passion for improving outdated systems. With a background in design and a decade of experience working with various government agencies, from NASA to the Department of Energy, Hashemi found his calling in breathing new life into systems from the 1970s, giving them a modern, user-friendly interface. This drive led him to start Remix, a company that transformed city planning with software tools used by over 500 cities, including London, New York, and San Francisco. The success of Remix, which was sold for $100 million, inspired Hashemi to tackle an even broader challenge: the outdated and often cumbersome world of mapping. “Felt is the best way to make maps on the internet, the only cloud-native GIS platform,” Hashemi said in a recent interview. “We started Felt to make mapping online collaborative, integrating with anything, and truly effortless.” This vision has resonated with a wide audience, from media giants like ABC and The New York Times to innovative startups and even nonprofits. Felt’s user base has grown to 500 businesses, with applications ranging from live reporting in conflict zones to advanced energy analysis.
Read the rest of Felt: Revolutionizing Digital Mapping for the Cloud Era Epson’s Cutting-Edge Innovations Unveiled at the 2024 Esri User ConferenceJuly 18th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At this year’s Esri User Conference, held in the vibrant city of San Diego, technology enthusiasts and GIS professionals gathered to witness the latest advancements in mapping and printing technology. Among the standout exhibitors was Epson, a name synonymous with precision and innovation in the printing industry. I had the opportunity to sit down with Jacob Hardin, Product Manager for Epson’s SureColor T-Series, to discuss their newest offerings and the impact these products are set to make in the world of GIS. Epson’s booth was abuzz with excitement as Hardin showcased the Epson SureColor T7770DM and T5470M, two remarkable additions to their wide-format technical printer lineup. These models are designed to meet the high demands of GIS professionals, offering unparalleled precision, speed, and versatility. The SureColor T7770DM: A Comprehensive Solution  SureColor T7770DM 44-Inch Large-Format Multifunction CAD/Technical Printer
The SureColor T7770DM is an all-in-one integrated printer that Hardin describes as a “One-stop shop” for CAD, technical map printing, and GIS applications. With a built-in scanner, this 44-inch wide-format multifunction printer stands out for its ability to produce A1/D-size prints in as fast as 16 seconds. It features a six-color ink system, including a new red ink that enhances gradients and branding colors, making it particularly valuable for GIS and mapping outputs. “The ink set and printhead are specifically geared towards printing detailed maps and charts,” Hardin explained. “This ensures that every detail is captured with precision, which is critical for professionals in GIS.” Read the rest of Epson’s Cutting-Edge Innovations Unveiled at the 2024 Esri User Conference AYE3D: Revolutionizing 3D Displays with the Freedom MonitorJuly 5th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
AYE3D, founded in 2019, has quickly established itself as a pioneer in the field of autostereoscopic 3D displays. This Montreal-based company’s flagship product, the Freedom 3D monitor, offers a glasses-free 3D viewing experience that is set to revolutionize various industries. Mario Genest, CEO of AYE3D, recently shared insights into the company’s journey and the innovative technology behind their groundbreaking product. The Genesis of AYE3DAYE3D was born out of the vision to create a truly immersive 3D experience without the need for additional eyewear or head-mounted displays. The company’s co-founder and CTO, a visionary with a longstanding passion for 3D technology, filed his first patent for a 3D display in 1994. Over the years, he developed several 3D display technologies, initially requiring glasses, which were licensed to companies in the US. However, feedback from customers highlighted a strong preference for a glasses-free solution, prompting further innovation. By 2021, AYE3D successfully commercialized its first glasses-free 3D display. The Freedom 3D monitor leverages cutting-edge eye-tracking technology to deliver two different images to each eye, creating a compelling 3D effect without the need for additional accessories.
Read the rest of AYE3D: Revolutionizing 3D Displays with the Freedom Monitor Unleashing New Horizons: Gemini Era Ushers in Revolutionary AI Developments at Google I/OMay 20th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At this year’s Google I/O, the electrifying atmosphere was palpable as Google unveiled its latest triumph in artificial intelligence—the Gemini project. This year’s keynote, delivered by Sundar Pichai amidst rousing applause, emphasized Google’s relentless drive to refine and enhance AI capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what technology can achieve in our daily lives. The conference kicked off with a spirited recap of the year’s achievements and a peek into the “Gemini era,” a bold new phase in Google’s AI development. The introduction of Gemini, a model designed from the ground up to be natively multimodal, capable of processing and integrating text, images, video, and more, marks a significant leap forward. This model is not just an incremental update; it’s a transformational shift that promises to redefine how we interact with technology. In a demonstration of its prowess, Google revealed that Gemini can handle complex, multimodal tasks with ease, showcasing examples from various Google ecosystems such as Search, Photos, and Android. For instance, the newly enhanced Google Photos now utilizes Gemini to allow users to interact with their photos in revolutionary ways—like asking the app to recall specific details from images without manually searching. One of the most exciting announcements was the expansion of Gemini’s capabilities into consumer products. Now integrated across Google’s suite of applications, Gemini’s reach extends into everyday use, making advanced AI tools accessible to everyone. The introduction of Gemini Advanced and the announcement of its availability on mobile platforms underscore Google’s commitment to democratizing AI technology.
Revolutionizing Aerial Surveying and Emergency Response: An Interview with Josh O’Leary of AirWise SolutionsMay 13th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In an enlightening interview, Josh O’Leary, the Chief Technology Officer at AirWise Solutions, discussed the innovative technologies and applications that his company is spearheading in the drone industry. AirWise Solutions has been at the forefront of developing advanced tools for airspace awareness, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency, particularly in commercial and public safety sectors.  With the UASidekick app you can easily view details for a location including airspace information, weather conditions, and B4UFLY compliance. Innovating Precision: Calian GNSS Advances in Smart Antenna TechnologyMay 8th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In a recent interview at Xponential 2024 Conference, Gord Echlin, Director of Business Development for Director of Business Development at Calian, shared insights into the company’s cutting-edge developments in GNSS technology and its impact across various sectors. Calian: A Multifaceted EnterpriseCalian stands out as a substantial multi-sector entity engaged in defense, satellite systems, and health sectors, among others. Originally known as Tallysman Wireless, the division Echlin represents specializes in GNSS antennas, smart antennas, and telematic systems.  Street cleaning Robot — Read the rest of Innovating Precision: Calian GNSS Advances in Smart Antenna Technology Shearwater Aerospace Revolutionizes Drone Operations with AIMay 3rd, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In an insightful discussion with Chad Armstrong, CEO of Shearwater Aerospace, I explored the innovative strides his company is making in the drone industry. During our interview at a recent technology conference, Armstrong shared his passion for leveraging natural phenomena to enhance drone endurance and efficiency, a pioneering approach inspired by the remarkable flight capabilities of shearwater birds.  Smart Planning module integrated with Lockheed Martin’s VCSi ground control software Innovation Inspired by NatureShearwater Aerospace, not to be confused with its digital footprint at Shearwater.ai, draws its name and inspiration from the shearwater bird, known for its incredible annual migration covering 64,000 kilometers. Armstrong explained that the endurance of these birds sparked the idea to develop advanced AI-powered flight optimization and automation software aimed at significantly improving drone operational efficiency. “Our focus has always been on endurance, emulating how birds leverage wind power to achieve astonishing feats of flight duration,” Armstrong said. This inspiration led to the development of the company’s flagship platform, Smart FlightTM, which enables a single operator to manage multiple drones simultaneously. Read the rest of Shearwater Aerospace Revolutionizes Drone Operations with AI |
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