Pix4D Elevates Geospatial Mapping with Innovative 3D Technology

Last week at the Commercial UAV Conference in Las Vegas, Pix4D, a leader in geospatial mapping technology, showcased its latest innovations in 3D data capture and processing. Known for converting imagery from drones, aircraft, and mobile devices into highly accurate georeferenced 2D orthomosaics, 3D surface models, and point clouds, the Swiss company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in photogrammetry and LiDAR integration.

In an interview at the conference, Ashley Reade, Business Development Executive at Pix4D, discussed the company’s unique approach to geospatial data solutions. “We aim to make accurate, high-quality data accessible to everyone, from experts in surveying and construction to those with limited experience in data capture,” Reade said.

PIX4Dcatch and Bad Elf Scanning Solution Interface

A focal point of the conversation was Pix4D’s comprehensive workflow, starting with its PIX4Dcatch mobile app. Compatible with the latest Apple iPhone Pro series, the app combines photogrammetry, LiDAR, and GNSS technology to capture georeferenced 3D models with precision. This is further enhanced by a new partnership with Bad Elf, announced earlier this month, which pairs their RTK GNSS Rover with PIX4Dcatch for centimeter-level accuracy in terrestrial scanning.

The Partnership with Bad Elf: Boosting Accuracy for Terrestrial Mapping

Bad Elf, a recognized name in high-accuracy GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) solutions, is known for providing innovative GNSS receivers that offer survey-grade accuracy without the complexity typically associated with high-end surveying equipment. The partnership between Pix4D and Bad Elf brings these capabilities directly into the PIX4Dcatch app, making it easier for users to achieve precise results when capturing data with smartphones and mobile devices.

“Bad Elf’s RTK GNSS Rover is the perfect pairing with PIX4Dcatch,” Reade said during the interview. “By integrating the Rover, users can capture data with centimeter-level accuracy, which is crucial for industries like construction, utility management, and crash scene reconstruction. This collaboration allows us to offer a robust solution for terrestrial mapping that doesn’t require users to invest in complex equipment or extensive training.”

Pix4Dcatch Use Case – Subsurface Utility

The RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) capabilities of Bad Elf’s devices enable users to receive corrections from a nearby base station or GNSS network, allowing them to achieve higher precision in positioning. When combined with the PIX4Dcatch app’s photogrammetry and LiDAR functionalities, the result is an integrated workflow that is accessible yet extremely powerful.

This partnership opens up new possibilities for applications like:

• Subsurface Utility Documentation: By combining Bad Elf’s RTK precision with PIX4Dcatch’s photogrammetry and augmented reality features, users can document and map underground utilities more accurately. This is particularly important for utility companies, surveyors, and construction firms looking to reduce the risk of digging into critical infrastructure.
• Crash Scene Reconstruction: Law enforcement and accident investigators can use the integrated solution to document crash scenes with millimeter precision, capturing essential data for post-incident analysis and legal proceedings.
• Ground-level Scanning: For projects requiring accurate topographical data or ground-level measurements, such as landscape architecture, civil engineering, or land development, the combination of Bad Elf’s RTK Rover and PIX4Dcatch allows users to easily capture precise 3D data with just a smartphone and GNSS receiver.

Moreover, the combined solution brings the benefit of mobility. Instead of using bulky, traditional survey equipment, users can leverage a lightweight GNSS receiver paired with a smartphone, enabling them to easily move through challenging terrains or crowded environments. The partnership with Bad Elf simplifies the data collection process, making survey-grade accuracy more accessible to a broader audience.

Enhancing Data Processing through PIX4Dcloud and PIX4Dmatic

Once data is captured using the combined Pix4D and Bad Elf solution, it can be uploaded directly to PIX4Dcloud for processing and sharing. This cloud-based platform allows users to turn raw data into precise georeferenced outputs like orthomosaics, 3D meshes, and point clouds, which can then be shared with stakeholders or used for further analysis.

For larger or more complex projects, PIX4Dmatic, Pix4D’s advanced desktop software, handles the processing of extensive datasets, ensuring accurate results even when dealing with thousands of images. Whether for drone mapping of large-scale areas or creating detailed 3D models from mobile data, PIX4Dmatic ensures that precision is maintained throughout the workflow.

Expanding Geospatial Possibilities

Pix4D’s partnership with Bad Elf demonstrates its commitment to expanding the accessibility and usability of high-accuracy mapping technology. By integrating cutting-edge GNSS and RTK solutions into its product lineup, Pix4D is positioning itself as a leader in both aerial and terrestrial data capture.

Reade emphasized that this collaboration is just the beginning. “Our goal is to continue refining these technologies so that anyone, regardless of their expertise level, can benefit from accurate, high-quality geospatial data.” As industries ranging from construction to public safety increasingly adopt mobile data capture, Pix4D’s ability to deliver survey-grade results through accessible platforms like PIX4Dcatch and Bad Elf’s GNSS Rover is transforming how professionals and organizations approach mapping.

Pix4D’s presence at the Commercial UAV Conference in Las Vegas highlighted this growing potential. Whether it’s documenting subsurface utilities or managing large-scale construction projects, Pix4D’s cutting-edge solutions, enhanced by partnerships like the one with Bad Elf, are shaping the future of geospatial mapping.

For more information, visit Pix4D.com to explore their product suite, use cases, and the latest innovations in 3D data capture.

Tags: 3D data capture, Bad Elf partnership, geospatial mapping, photogrammetry, Pix4D, RTK GNSS

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