Phase One Industrial introduces 190MP aerial system

Phase One Industrial has launched the 190MP Aerial System, built on dual CMOS sensors and the dual-lens iXU-RS1900 camera, which is capable of capturing images at 190 megapixels, according to the company.

An alternative to traditionally expensive large-format cameras, the system was designed with input from engineers and experts in photogrammetry to address challenging aerial applications such as remote sensing, monitoring, inspection and disaster management.

The system is equipped with an Applanix’ POS AV system, enabling direct geo-referencing of aerial images. It is also compatible with other GNSS/IMU systems. By integrating precision GNSS with inertial technology, POS AV enables precise determination of position and attitude, as well as the completion of geospatial projects in a more efficient and cost-effective manner.

The system’s accurate large image coverage, light weight and low power consumption make it compatible with most light aviation vehicles, including those that previously could not manage a large format system.

The iXU-RS1900 camera and 190MP aerial camera system will be presented at Intergeo 2017, to be held in Berlin, Germany, from Sept. 26-28. Phase One Industrial’s booth is in Hall 4.1, stand B4.002. Applanix is exhibiting in Hall 4.1, stand C4.050.

At the system’s heart is the IXU-RS1900 camera. It features two CMOS sensors and two 90mm lenses for capturing RGB information. Key imaging attributes include:

• a small pixel size (4.6 µ)
• large image area (16,470 x 11,540)
• high image-capture rate of 0.6 second and exposure time of up to 1/2000 second.

An optional four-band configuration, adding a 50-mm lens for capturing near infrared (NIR) information, provides four-band (RGB, NIR) or color-infrared (CIR) imagery.

Integrated iX Capture software automatically generates distortion-free images and automatically performs an accurate matching of the NIR and RGB images.

The iXU-RS1900 can also be a  standalone camera for photogrammetric work, as a component for lidar systems, or as part of a multiple camera array, such as a nadir camera for oblique systems.

“Introducing the Phase One 190MP aerial system demonstrates our continuing commitment to the aerial photography market,” said Dov Kalinski, general manager of Phase One Industrial. “The cooperation with leading partners in mount design, GNSS, and Flight Managements Systems enables Phase One to offer an innovative system at affordable pricing, and enables our customers to execute projects faster and at lower cost.”

190MP Aerial System Features

The entire system comprises many elements including:

iX Controller MK III: This is the central hub of the system. It controls the camera, the gyro-stabilizing mount and the GNSS/IMU system, and runs the capture application and the flight management system. The iX Controller supports dual monitors, so both the pilot and the operator are able to monitor and observe different views of the setup in parallel.

iX Capture: iX Capture is an aerial capture, control and image processing software with an intuitive interface that displays key information such as exposure settings, histogram, GPS data and frame count. It provides the operator with real-time feedback and ensures confidence that each image has been captured correctly.

Gyro Stabilized Camera Mount – Somag DSM400: Designed specifically for Phase One 190MP Aerial System, this mount has a low weight of 14 kg and high payload of 35 kg. It provides optimal stabilization of the system pod and allows highly efficient and precise image capturing under most flight conditions.

GNSS/IMU system: The Phase One 190MP Aerial System is equipped with an Applanix’ POS AV system, enabling direct geo-referencing of aerial images. It is also compatible with other GNSS/IMU systems. By integrating precision GNSS with inertial technology, POS AV enables precise determination of position and attitude, as well as the completion of geospatial projects in a more efficient and cost effective manner.

Flight Management System: Controlled and operated with ease, TopoFlight flight management system, integrated into the Phase One 190MP Aerial Camera System, enables the planning, positioning and sensors’ management – reducing aerial survey operational costs and increasing productivity. The 190MP Aerial System is also compatible with other flight management systems.

Availability and Pricing: The iXU-RS1900 camera and 190MP Aerial Systems are available now from Phase One Industrial partners worldwide. The iXU-RS1900 camera pricing starts at US$150,000; the 190MP Phase One Aerial System pricing starts at U.S. $280,000; and the190MP Four-Band Aerial System pricing starts at US$365,000.