Friday, 4 May 2012
SuperSurv 3 to Support to Connect to Map Service of SuperGIS Server 3
SuperSurv 3, the mobile survey system, developed by SuperGeo, is going to support the connection to the map service of SuperGIS Server 3. That is to say, users are able to apply the map service of SuperGIS Server as the base map on their mobile devices during field investigation.
SuperSurv is the mobile GIS application specially designed for Android OS. Integrating with GIS and GPS technologies, SuperSurv allows users to easily collect and survey spatial data in the field with Android mobile devices. The main functions of SuperSurv include data collection, positioning, map display and waypoint guidance. With the GPS functions, the data of point, line and polygon can all be captured quickly. In the meantime, the waypoint and track log can be recorded and managed well.
In order to make field investigation much easier for surveyors, enterprises can publish the specified spatial data as map services. Thus, besides using SGT files, field surveyors will be able to collect data effectively by applying the map service as the base map instead of carrying plenty of map data.
SuperSurv 3 is going to support connection to the map service of SuperGIS Server 3 soon. To know more products information, please feel free to contact us by e-mail: staff@supergeotek.com or get on our website (http://www.supergeotek.com).
SuperGeo Technologies Inc. is a leading global provider of GIS software and solutions. Since the establishment, SuperGeo has been 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.
Colombia’s IDEAM Selects Intergraph®’s ERDAS APOLLO to Protect Citizens
Intergraph® proudly announces that the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) in Colombia is now using ERDAS APOLLO to help generate and distribute critical information regarding potential disasters, as well as manage the sustainable use of Colombian natural resources.
As part of this critical mission, IDEAM provides environmental and hydrometeorological condition forecasts and alerts regarding situational changes that can cause disasters or impact natural resources. To maximize the benefit of these forecasts and alerts, IDEAM needs to ensure the timeliness of the data used to create them, and their rapid delivery to end users.
ERDAS APOLLO, now offered by Intergraph’s geospatial products division, is the market-leading enterprise solution for managing and delivering geospatial data and imagery. It consistently delivers more data, faster and with less hardware than competing image serving products. An interoperable OGC®/ISO-based solution, ERDAS APOLLO also easily delivers feature data, terrain and virtually any digital object in an enterprise.
Prior to its selection of ERDAS APOLLO, IDEAM’s process consisted of a daily download of 48 images from the GOES 12 satellite. Using these images, IDEAM prepared precipitation and temperature data, publishing them in PDF format. Specialized personnel at IDEAM used these data to issue environmental alerts in cases of extreme weather conditions capable of causing calamities such as landslides, floods and wildfires. They sent other types of maps generated from these periodic images to remote offices and users via DVD.
With ERDAS APOLLO, IDEAM plans to streamline this process. “We are opening access to a new portal implemented with ERDAS APOLLO, from which the general public can learn about the monitoring activities IDEAM develops to provide present-day information about the status of natural resources in Colombia,” said Ricardo Jose Lozano Picón, Head Director, IDEAM.
IDEAM selected ERDAS APOLLO because it offers a comprehensive data administration module that allows IDEAM to easily incorporate new images into its catalog and distribute them quickly. The software enables IDEAM to catalog raw data, automatically harvesting metadata, and provides interoperable CS-W services. For those images, it also provides interoperable OGC web services that can be consumed by other Intergraph products, or any other OGC-compliant SIG software.
In addition to assisting with the global efforts of IDEAM, ERDAS APOLLO will facilitate specific projects within the organization. “IDEAM is very pleased to make available a web-accessed nationwide monitoring system for deforestation in Colombia, and acknowledges the importance of selecting and using the Intergraph suite of products on this project,” said Maria Claudia Garcia, Subdirector of Environmental Studies, IDEAM.
Garcia continued, “The combination of Intergraph products has allowed us to successfully and quickly complete all the tasks related to data preparation and processing, generation of base maps, automation of tasks to create reports, geospatial data catalog creation and distribution or publication of our products. With this portal, our users can strengthen their technical capability to design, execute and supervise projects related to reduction of emission coming from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD).”
Since implementing ERDAS APOLLO, data administrators at IDEAM are able to better organize and manage raster data. Additionally, IDEAM’s data consumers report satisfaction with the speed of the image display in their browsers, and enjoy using the intuitive user interface to explore the catalog and display images along with their metadata.
Datum Ingeniería SAS, Intergraph distributor in Colombia, assisted IDEAM with the selection, implementation and customization of ERDAS APOLLO. A leading engineering consulting firm in Colombia, Datum is comprised of geospatial professionals with more than 30 years of experience in GIS, measurement systems, photogrammetry, remote sensing and meteorology. With this rich background, Datum offers high-quality, integrated geomatics services tailored to the unique requirements of each client. Datum is involved in the environmental, mining, oil and gas, construction and defensemarkets, among others.
“Datum is grateful for the opportunity to apply its expertise and knowledge to find an innovative solution that meets both IDEAM’s organizational and project needs,” said Oscar Guzman, Technical Manager, Datum Ingeniería SAS.
To learn more about ERDAS APOLLO and the other products within the Intergraph Geospatial portfolio, please visit www.intergraph.com/geospatial/products.
Intergraph is the leading global provider of engineering and geospatial software that enables customers to visualize complex data. Businesses and governments in more than 60 countries rely on Intergraph’s industry-specific software to organize vast amounts of data to make processes and infrastructure better, safer and smarter. The company’s software and services empower customers to build and operate more efficient plants and ships, create intelligent maps, and protect critical infrastructure and millions of people around the world.
Intergraph operates through two divisions: Process, Power & Marine (PP&M) and Security, Government & Infrastructure (SG&I). Intergraph PP&M provides enterprise engineering software for the design, construction, operation and data management of plants, ships and offshore facilities. Intergraph SG&I provides geospatially powered solutions including ERDAS technologies to the public safety and security, defense and intelligence, government, transportation, photogrammetry, and utilities and communications industries. Intergraph Government Solutions (IGS) is an independent subsidiary for SG&I’s U.S. federal and classified business.
Intergraph is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hexagon AB, (Nordic exchange: HEXA B). For more information, visit www.intergraph.com and www.hexagon.com
Trimble to Enhance its Office-to-Field Platform with the Acquisition of Google’s SketchUp
Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire SketchUp®, one of the most popular 3D modeling tools in the world, from Google (NASDAQ: GOOG). The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2012, subject to customary closing conditions and expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act. While financial terms are not being disclosed the transaction is not expected to be material to 2012 earnings per share.
SketchUp is currently used by millions of users annually—ranging from architects to engineering and construction firms to building and design professionals—for designing, modeling and visualizing projects. The SketchUp product and its vision of "3D modeling for everyone" has allowed modelers worldwide, across a wide range of industries, to express design concepts easily, accurately and efficiently. Additionally, SketchUp users benefit from its extensive third-party developer community that provides industry-specific solutions for a variety of customers.
As part of the SketchUp platform, Trimble will also partner with Google on running and further developing SketchUp's 3D Warehouse, an online repository where users can find, share, store and collaborate on 3D models. The site enables users to create collections of models, including 3D Buildings, and share them with fellow modelers around the world. Individual models can be loaded, saved and viewed in 3D from within SketchUp or a web browser. For the foreseeable future, Google will host and operate the 3D Warehouse for Trimble and together the companies will continue to offer the same capabilities, functions and services that are offered today. The ability for users to submit 3D Buildings for potential acceptance and viewing in Google Earth will be maintained. Currently the 3D Warehouse has almost two million user-generated models.
"SketchUp and the corresponding 3D Warehouse provide an important element of our long term strategy by enhancing the integration of our field presence with the wider enterprise," said Bryn Fosburgh, Trimble vice president. "Trimble has already created the de-facto standard for field data models and project management tools for our key markets. SketchUp, together with these existing capabilities, will provide a stand-alone and enterprise solution that will enable an integrated and seamless workflow to reduce rework and improve productivity for the customer. Users will be able to collect data, design, model, and collaborate on one platform. The combined capability will enhance our ability to extend our existing market applications including the cadastral, heavy civil, and building and construction industries. In addition, the SketchUp platform will enable Trimble, third-party developers and our distribution partners to efficiently develop new applications."
"Since its inception, the SketchUp team has been committed to providing a robust, user-centric solution to its community and we look forward to engaging their talent and expertise. Beyond extending the reach of the product into Trimble's commercial markets, we are committed to continuing to provide SketchUp as a free version to millions of users. Trimble and Google will also continue to collaborate on utilizing other Google tools for Trimble's markets that, along with SketchUp, will provide our customers innovative and productive tools that transform their work," concluded Fosburgh.
"In Trimble, we found a partner that will grow SketchUp in a way that best supports the SketchUp team and our users," said Brian McClendon, Google's vice president of engineering. "While at Google, the SketchUp community grew significantly because the team put users first, and we are confident they will continue to do so at Trimble. We at Google look forward to a continued partnership with Trimble and the SketchUp team."
As a part of Google, SketchUp's charter was to empower a worldwide community of users to create 3D models for whatever their imagination could envision. Examples range from household furniture to famous stadiums and other buildings. These users come from a variety of backgrounds, with a large part of SketchUp's user community coming from a professional architectural or engineering and construction background. As a part of Trimble, SketchUp will continue to support all of its current users through its Web site at: http://sketchup.google.com. Concurrently, the SketchUp engine will be integrated into Trimble's current solutions in its Engineering and Construction, Field Solutions and Mobile Solutions segments.
Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.
Loqate Delivers Advanced Technology for Global Address Search, Verification, and Geocoding
“As organizations become global, the importance of accurate and robust location information becomes critical to the success of that organization,” said Martin Turvey, CEO and President of Loqate. “In a little more than two years, the Loqate development team led by CTO Paul Flew has delivered a product set that in many cases surpasses those that have been on the market for over a decade. As a result, many software companies in the Data Quality and Master Data Management markets are making the shift to Loqate.”
The 2012 Q2.0 release is the capstone of a series of product releases begun in Q4 2011 to deliver new gains in performance and features to Loqate OEMs and resellers and ultimately their customers. Features delivered include:
New Parsing, Query, and Format Tools to provide greater application control over the address search and verification process.
New Country Identification module to aid in data parsing and verification
New ports to Solaris, HP-UX, AIX, and System-Z platforms in addition to existing Windows, Linux, and Cloud Architectures
Verify process now based on Parse->Match->Format processes, resulting in an average of 5x performance improvement, significantly more in some situations
New caching and data management functionality for the Loqate Global Knowledge Repository to speed response time
New Account Management Facility to provide better management of address verification and geocoding transactions in The Loqate Cloud
Transliteration now exists for 10 languages and character sets – Latin, Kanji (Japanese), Cyrillic (Russia), Hellenic (Greece), Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese (Taiwan), Hangul ( South Korea ), Hebrew, Thai, and Arabic
The 2012 Q2.0 release is currently available to Loqate OEMs, Resellers, and customers. Detailed release and support information is available at http://www.loqate.com/support. More information on Loqate OEMs and Resellers can be found at www.loqate.com/partners.
Loqate Inc., the definitive source of everything location, can power applications with a combination of address capture, verification, and geocoding – all for 240+ countries. With global coverage, Loqate becomes the single global source for high quality, accurate location information.
Loqate corporate headquarters are in San Bruno, CA, USA. The company, founded in 2009, sells its products as components that are leveraged by software vendors, service providers, and systems integrators. Loqate has a focus on providing great technology along with unparalleled levels of support to clients and partners. The Loqate Engine enables software vendors to significantly enhance the functionality and capability of their own product offerings. For more information, see www.loqate.com.
European LiDAR Mapping Forum Launch Call for Papers
The Technical Committee for the third European LiDAR Mapping Forum (ELMF),which is taking place in Salzburg, Austria 4-5 December 2012, has recently announced a Call for Papers and invites any interested parties to submit their abstracts online at https://secure.smartregister.co.uk/events/Intelligent-Exhibitions/2012/ELMF-CFP/start.aspx by 25th July 2012. The ELMF Technical Committee, led by Conference Chairman Alastair MacDonald from TMSI, will peer review each abstract and the final programme will be announced at the beginning of September.
TheELMF is the premier event in Europe focused on applying the technology of LIDAR and laser scanning to deliver outside mapping and imaging solutions in a timely and cost-effective manner across a variety of markets. The conference is a unique platform on which to launch the latest concepts from commercial or academic research, leading-edge innovations in technologies, improved operating practices, reports on actual project experiences and to discuss new applications and markets being driven by the rapid improvements in LIDAR technology. Over two days the conference will focus on the use of LIDAR to support transport, urban modelling, asset management, coastal zone mapping and 3D and GIS applications. For a full list of topics please go to http://www.lidarmap.org/ELMF/conference/conference_programme.aspx
In addition, the organisers are delighted to report that, despite only recently launching the dates for the next European LiDAR Mapping Forum, they have been overwhelmed by the response from organisations wishing to exhibit. Why such a rush? It might have something to do with the fact that over 98% of exhibitors rated the 2011 exhibition as good or excellent! For those that participate, not only are there outstanding networking, educational and marketing opportunities on offer but exhibitors have access to over 500 industry delegates from over 40 countries. Being part of a 60 company strong exhibition including mobile mapping vehicles which provide real-time demonstrations, having access to the highly acclaimed programmes that run alongside the international conference and the opportunity to present in a full range of technical workshops, allows exhibitors to cost-effectively meet the major group of key industry colleagues.
TheELMF welcomes organisations involved in Airborne, Bathymetric LIDAR and Mobile Mapping Systems, including system and component manufacturers, operators, service companies and specialists in data handling and management, to exhibit or sponsor at the ELMF event.
Janina Milner, first time exhibitor with Oxford Technical Solutions at ELMF said, “ELMF provided us with a great platform for showing our systems to key players in the industry. We were able to network with business partners, get feedback from existing customers and generate a great amount of promising sales leads. ELMF far exceeded our expectations and we'll definitely re-book our stand for the 2012 conference.”
The European LiDAR Mapping Forum builds on the successful 11 year track record of the International LiDAR Mapping Forum [ILMF], the premier international conference for LIDAR and Mobile Mapping which is held annually in the USA. With growing acceptance in Europe of the benefits of LIDAR in low-cost mapping, the European LIDAR community wanted a showcase for their fast growing number of applications, and so the ELMF was born.
The International and European LiDAR Mapping Forums are the premier global events focused on applying the technology of LIDAR and laser scanning to deliver outside mapping and imaging solutions in a timely and cost-effective manner across a variety of markets. The core component of both events is the conference which introduces the latest concepts from commercial or academic research, leading edge innovations in technologies, improved operating practices, reports on actual project experiences and discusses new applications and markets being driven by the rapid improvements in LIDAR technology. During the conference the programme will focus on the use of LIDAR to support transport, urban modelling, coastal zone mapping, asset management and GIS applications. An international exhibition runs alongside the conferences with exhibitors involved in airborne, bathymetric and terrestrial LIDAR and mobile mapping systems, including system and component manufacturers, operators and service companies.
Telogis Announces Latitude 2012
Telogis, Inc., the platform for location intelligence, will host Telogis Latitude, a forum of leading companies that have transformed their business and mission critical operations through the power of location intelligence. The conference, to be held May 21-24 at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, Calif., will give attendees the opportunity to network with their peers, share best practices with global enterprises and take part in interactive demonstrations of the Telogis Platform of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions. Telogis Latitude sponsors include industry leaders, such as Ford Motor Company, AT&T, Volvo Americas, Nokia, Travelers Insurance, Freightliner, ARI, Motorola, and Schrader International, that are all leveraging location intelligence to transform their customers’ operations.
“At Telogis, we strive every day to transform the way businesses use actionable data to streamline their mobile operations through our enterprise platform offering,” said Susan Heystee, executive vice president of sales, Telogis. “Our customers choose Telogis because of our premium technology and consistent delivery of measurable results — and we invite attendees to join us at Telogis Latitude to interact with our customers and learn how they’ve implemented Telogis solutions to enhance the productivity, safety, performance and efficiency of their mobile assets.”
Keynote presenters include:
Billy Beane, the Oakland A’s general manager and subject of the Academy Award Best Picture-nominee Moneyball, threw decades of conventional wisdom out the window and turned his small market team into major league contenders. Using advanced statistical analysis frowned on by scouts at the time, Beane signed players who were undervalued by the market but had a proven ability to get on base and score runs. The results are a benchmark in statistical analysis celebrated in sports and business alike. Hear Beane speak on these topics and relate how you can translate these successes to your business.
Scott Asplundh, CEO, Asplundh Tree Expert Co., will discuss how his company has leveraged the Telogis Platform to monitor, plan and adjust the usage of mobile resources and transform the way Asplundh does business.
Dave Cozzens, CEO, Telogis, will discuss the current state of the location-based services industry and how technology and application development are transforming industries and ushering in a new era of location intelligence.
Heystee will also moderate a discussion with industry luminaries such as Ford, Volvo, Nokia, Travelers Insurance, Motorola and AT&T on meeting the challenge of integrating real-time location-based intelligence into global go-to-market strategies. The panel, titled “Meeting Customer Demands for Location Intelligence in the Enterprise & Beyond,” will kick off the sessions on Tuesday, May 22.
Customer-led breakout sessions feature three business tracks — Operational Excellence, Executive & Best Practices, and Technical Platform — covering 18 educational topics. Topics include driving ROI, achieving operational excellence, vehicle telematics, route optimization and work management, fuel management, driver safety and insurance telematics. These breakout sessions will feature panels of Telogis customers and will address the most pressing needs of the audience. The sessions focus on industry best practices and how these leading customers are leveraging the Telogis Platform to achieve a more efficient and productive mobile workforce.
Following the Latitude event, training sessions will be offered to take a deeper look at the platform of Telogis offerings, including Telogis Fleet, Telogis Mobile, Telogis Progression, Telogis Route and Telogis GeoBase. These sessions include live demonstrations and real-world examples of optimizing fleets on the road, tracking their status against the plan, making real-time changes and customer notifications based on dynamic events, and the planning and work order optimization functions of the Telogis Platform.
Telogis Inc., the platform for location intelligence, is dedicated to enhancing the value of its customers’ businesses through intelligent integration of location technology, information and services. Telogis was established in 2001 and is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, Calif., with offices in Europe and Latin America as well as development centers in Austin, Texas; Toronto; and Christchurch, New Zealand. Telogis’ products and services are used and distributed in more than 100 countries worldwide. To learn more about Telogis, visit www.telogis.com or call toll free at 866-TELOGIS (866-835-6447).
OGC Sensor Observation Service Standard Version 2.0 Adopted
25 April 2012 - The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC®) membership has adopted the OGC Sensor Observation Service (SOS) Interface Standard Version 2.0.
Whether from in-situ sensors (e.g., water monitoring) or remote sensors (e.g., satellite imaging), observations made from sensor systems contribute most of the geospatial data by volume used in geospatial systems today. The OGC® Sensor Observation Service Interface Standard (SOS) provides an open, well-defined API for managing measured data as well as metadata from deployed sensors. The SOS is one standard in the OGC Sensor Web Enablement (SWE) suite of standards.
SOS 2.0 includes a modular restructuring of the document, a new and easy to use key-value-pair binding, a new SOAP binding, a redesign of the observation offering concept, and it now relies on the common OGC Sensor Web Enablement Service Model. SOS 2.0 is highly modular and follows the OGC core/extension design pattern. The main SOS 2.0 document incorporates the core as well as the transactional extension, result handling extension, enhanced operations extension, binding extension, and a profile for spatial filtering of observations. Further extensions can be built upon this framework in the future.
The SOS 2.0 standard is available at: http://www.opengeospatial.org/standards/sos.
The OGC is an international consortium of more than 435 companies, government agencies, research organizations, and universities participating in a consensus process to develop publicly available geospatial standards. OGC Standards support interoperable solutions that "geo-enable" the Web, wireless and location-based services, and mainstream IT. OGC Standards empower technology developers to make geospatial information and services accessible and useful with any application that needs to be geospatially enabled. Visit the OGC website at http://www.opengeospatial.org.
URISA ESIG Award Deadline Approaching
Des Plaines, IL - April 25, 2012 - URISA, the Association for GIS Professionals, has extended the deadline for the Exemplary Systems in Government (ESIG) Awards. All submissions are now due Monday, May 21, 2012.
The awards recognize exceptional achievements in the application of geospatial information technology that have improved the delivery and quality of government services.
Applications may be submitted in two categories, Single Process and Enterprise Systems:
SINGLE PROCESS SYSTEMS - Systems in this category are outstanding and working examples of applying information system technology to automate a specific SINGLE process or operation involving one department or sub-unit of an agency. The system application results in extended and/or improved government services that are more efficient and/or save money.
ENTERPRISE SYSTEMS - Systems in this category are outstanding and working examples of using information systems technology in a multi-department environment as part of an integrated process. These systems exemplify effective use of technology yielding widespread improvements in the
process(es) and/or service(s) involved and/or cost savings to the organization.
Winners in each category will be recognized during GIS-Pro 2012: URISA's 50th Annual Conference, September 30-October 4, 2012 in Portland, Oregon.
For more information or to review past submissions from winning systems, visit http://www.urisa.org/esig or call (847) 824-6300.
Bringing Together a Country Through Crowdsourced Mapping
The Trans Canada Trail is the world's longest pathway. It will span more than 22,000 kilometres when all the trails across the country are connected by 2017 on Canada's 150th anniversary. The progress of this national project can now be viewed through an online mapping application donated by Esri Canada, a geographic information system (GIS) solutions provider and a member of Chapter 150, a group of visionary and philanthropic business leaders helping to connect the Trail and all Canadians. Through the interactive Web map, the public can explore the Trail, share photos and stories of their Trail visits, as well as walk the Trail.
“Building the Trans Canada Trail is a significant achievement for Canada and we're proud to be part of this historic journey,” says Alex Miller, president, Esri Canada. “In the same way that the Trail connects all Canadians, our purpose for creating this Web map is to provide a collaborative platform for people across the country to get connected through their Trail experience and help preserve our national heritage.”
Users can explore the map to find places on the Trail suitable for various activities throughout the year including biking, canoeing and cross-country skiing. They can upload photos and stories of their visit and view what others have shared, building a resource of collective knowledge that can be passed on to future generations. They can also download or bookmark their favourite maps.
“This online map makes the Trail accessible to people,” says Deborah Apps, President and CEO, Trans Canada Trail. “Before venturing out, they can use the online map and effectively plan their activities, thus enhancing their experience of the Trail. It's an efficient way of sharing information about the Trail and events happening in or around it. This map helps Canadians from coast to coast work together to make the dream of a national trail a reality.”
The Web map consists of numerous data layers integrated using Esri's ArcGIS technology. Esri technology has advanced significantly to allow the integration of user-generated or crowdsourced content with traditional datasets such as roads or geographic points of interest. The application uses basemaps from The Community Map of Canada, a program initiated by Esri Canada that compiles maps and geographic data contributed by more than 100 Canadian federal, provincial and municipal governments to be used by the public.
The application promotes active lifestyles by allowing Trail users to register for a free account to enter the number of steps or a length of time biked and see how much of the Trail they would have covered. Since the Web map was launched in January 2012, more than 2,600 individuals have created accounts to upload information to the map and use the various tools within the application.
Access the Trans Canada Trail application at tctrail.ca/explore-the-trail.
The Trans Canada Trail/Sentier Transcanadien is a national non-profit organization that supports the development and use of a national network that links millions of Canadians from coast to coast to coast. Canadians and international visitors use the Trail to hike, cycle, ski, horseback ride, canoe and snowmobile. Partnering with all levels of Government, sponsors and donors, the Trans Canada Trail supports the work of more than 400 local Trail organizations and thousands of volunteers across the country through trail development grants and promotion of their efforts to build and sustain the world's longest and grandest recreational trail. For more information, visit tcttrail.ca.
Founded in 1984, Esri Canada provides enterprise geographic information system (GIS) solutions that empower businesses, governments and educational institutions to make timely, informed and mission-critical decisions by leveraging the power of geography. The company distributes the world's leading GIS software from Esri, Telvent, Cityworks – Azteca Systems, Inc. and other technology partners. Headquartered in Toronto, the company serves over 10,000 customers from 16 regional offices across Canada and has been named as one of the top 250 Canadian IT companies and top 25 IT professional services providers in Canada by the Branham Group. Information about Esri Canada can be found at esri.ca.
New Versions of Bentley Map V8i and Geo Web Publisher V8i Further Streamline Geospatial Workflows
Geospatial World Forum 2012 - Bentley Systems, Incorporated, the leading company dedicated to providing comprehensive software solutions for sustaining infrastructure, is further advancing GIS for infrastructure with the forthcoming release of Bentley Map V8i (SELECTseries 3) and Geo Web Publisher V8i (SELECTseries 4). Bentley Map is the choice of infrastructure professionals around the globe for the creation of reliable and realistic 3D GIS models in support of engineering decision making. Bentley Geo Web Publisher - a web GIS platform with high-performance publishing capabilities for the integration of a variety of data sources and authoring and administration of web applications - maximizes the value of geospatial information. The new versions of these two products further streamline geospatial workflows, saving time, reducing costs, and uniquely meeting the demanding needs of infrastructure projects.
Bentley Map now empowers users to take even greater advantage of point-cloud data and scalable terrain models in engineering workflows. In addition, it improves geospatial workflows with the convenience of spatial data streaming from spatial databases (Oracle Spatial, and now Microsoft SQL Server Spatial) and Open Geospatial Consortium-compliant web services. The new version of Bentley Geo Web Publisher supports the publishing of 3D spatial information.
Richard Zambuni, Bentley global marketing director, said, "The new releases of Bentley Map and Bentley Geo Web Publisher update and significantly extend the capabilities of our broad range of products for desktop and web GIS workflows. Moreover, they deliver the engineering accuracy and rigor that today's GIS professionals demand."
Agnieszka Kolkiewicz, GIS consultant, Logica Poland, said, "Since 1986 Logica Poland has been providing integrated systems for water utilities in Poland. The GIS module is part of the solution we provide, and currently more than 40 customers are earning profits from it. We are planning to rebuild our GIS application using the new development interface (API) in Bentley Map V8i (SELECTseries 3). From our initial investigations of this latest release we are very excited about using the new Microsoft SQL Server Spatial support, the spatial data streaming, the Web Feature Service capability, and the enhanced XFM feature engine. These new capabilities in Bentley Map will help us deliver an even better application for our users."
Eric Moos, GIS administrator, City of Largo, Florida, U.S.A., said, "The City of Largo has adopted Bentley Map Enterprise as its desktop GIS standard for geospatial data creation and analysis, and we use Bentley's geospatial desktop and server applications in conjunction with Oracle Spatial as the primary components of our enterprise GIS technology architecture. In our evaluation and testing of the new Bentley Map Enterprise V8i (SELECTseries 3) release, we are pleased with the overall performance increase and the addition of direct database access technology for geospatial databases. When paired with the 3D feature modeling capabilities already in Bentley Map, the new scalable terrain model functionality will enable us to build and maintain a 3D city model that can be used throughout the organization for planning, visualization, and analysis of new infrastructure projects. It also will allow us to fully leverage the value of our investment in digital design data for capital infrastructure improvement projects to build and maintain our enterprise geospatial database."
Bentley Map V8i (SELECTseries 3)
Bentley Map V8i (SELECTseries 3) increases users' returns on their investments in datasets comprising, for example, multi-gigabyte point-cloud files aggregating to terabytes of data as well as digital terrain models with billions of points, by enabling them to incorporate this valuable data in geospatial workflows. It also provides advanced editing and 3D spatial analysis to help improve data quality and decision making.
The new features of Bentley Map V8i (SELECTseries 3) include support for:
Microsoft SQL Server Spatial, enabling unprecedented interoperability and enterprise integration for Microsoft SQL Server users;
advanced point-cloud processing, bringing point-cloud data seamlessly into geospatial workflows to support the creation of intelligent 3D models that combine vector geometry, imagery, and point clouds;
the manipulation of very large scalable terrain models, helping users maintain a single terrain model for an entire region or country and keep the model up to date from multiple sources;
spatial data streaming through a redesigned spatial database interface (which delivers spatial database information dynamically to the desktop), making users' sessions more productive and intuitive and helping them avoid unnecessary interruptions;
Web Feature Service (WFS), allowing connections to any WFS server through which an organization publishes spatial information in OGC standard formats for consumption and editing by Bentley Map;
advanced mapping tools such as the new Grid/Graticules Generation tool, enabling the creation of impressive and accurate maps and plans;
creating and editing custom coordinate systems, enabling coordinate support for even the most demanding organizations.
Bentley Geo Web Publisher V8i (SELECTseries 4)
Bentley Geo Web Publisher V8i (SELECTseries 4) brings together multiple data sources, supports collaboration among distributed project teams and the public, and improves productivity. Moreover, its advanced web application builder allows GIS managers to quickly, easily, and cost-effectively create and maintain - independently - very rich web GIS applications.
Additional advantages include:
the provision of full fidelity to MicroStation data, including textures, point clouds, terrain models, and attribute data;
the presentation of source data with engineering accuracy;
map navigation that's simple, intuitive, immersive, and fast;
support for a wide variety of data sources, including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server Spatial, OGC WMS, OGC WFS, GIS files, CAD files, and raster imagery;
support for Web Feature Service Client, allowing connections to any WFS server used to publish spatial information in the OGC standard;
more development tools, including sample pages supporting touch-based mobile devices such as iPad;
3D publishing of i-models and CAD files.
The new capabilities of Bentley Geo Web Publisher V8i (SELECTseries 4) are highly valuable to all organizations that share and publish intelligent 3D information models. Among these organizations are the growing number of cadastres, local governments, and public- and private-sector infrastructure owner-operators that increasingly rely on 3D models for everything from public mapping services to 3D city initiatives to engineering projects.
For additional information about Bentley Map V8i (SELECTseries 3), visit www.bentley.com/BentleyMap3DGIS. For additional information about Bentley Geo Web Publisher V8i (SELECTseries 4), visit www.bentley.com/NewInGWP.
Bentley is the global leader dedicated to providing architects, engineers, geospatial professionals, constructors, and owner-operators with comprehensive software solutions for sustaining infrastructure. Bentley's mission is to empower its users to leverage information modeling through integrated projects for high-performing intelligent infrastructure. Its solutions encompass the MicroStation platform for infrastructure design and modeling, the ProjectWise platform for infrastructure project team collaboration and work sharing, and the AssetWise platform for infrastructure asset operations - all supporting a broad portfolio of interoperable applications and complemented by worldwide professional services. Founded in 1984, Bentley has grown to nearly 3,000 colleagues in more than 45 countries and over $500 million in annual revenues. Since 2003, the company has invested more than $1 billion in research, development, and acquisitions.
Additional information about Bentley is available at www.bentley.com and in Bentley's annual report. For Bentley news as it happens, subscribe to an RSS feed of Bentley press releases and news alerts. To view a searchable collection of innovative infrastructure projects from the annual Be Inspired Awards, access Bentley's Year in Infrastructure publications. To access a professional networking site that enables members of the infrastructure community to connect, communicate, and learn from each other, visit Be Communities.
To download the Bentley Infrastructure 500 Top Owners ranking, a unique global compendium of the top public- and private-sector owners of infrastructure based on the value of their cumulative infrastructure investments, visit www.bentley.com/500.
SiteVision Chosen for Hurricane Mapping Project
Sea Island Software, developers of the Hurricane Evacuation Program (HURREVAC) utilized by government emergency managers around the world, has chosen SiteVision, Inc., to enhance and streamline its website user registration and access features. SiteVision developed the original web portal system for the software company, and has partnered in upgrades as emerging technologies have evolved.
Sea Island Software’s HURREVAC program (www.huricanemapping.com) is a highly-regarded storm tracking and decision assistance software program. The mapping site offers real-time tracking of storms worldwide using official forecast data. From its origins in 1988, HURREVAC has grown into a feature-rich program currently used by more than 6,000 government emergency managers worldwide. The website is a comprehensive storm tracking service for Google Earth and ESRI’s ArcGIS. HurricaneMapping.com's datafeeds are designed to be both an extended service to our existing customers in the public sectors as well as a stand-alone service to new private-sector customers. The data feeds are a subscription-based service that delivers live hurricane, tropical storm, and typhoon tracking data quickly and efficiently to the desktop. The firm also offers various training, exercise services, risk profiles and custom programming related to hurricane management information. SiteVision was originally responsible for developing all of the backend capabilities, as well as a full fail-over redundant capability for 24-7 emergency access.
In the new project, SiteVision will provide alternative user processes for streamlining the way HRVC registers HURREVAC users and grants access to the program. New registration features and security measures, as well as a comprehensive administration section will be designed to enhance and automate the expedient flow of information to and from the users.
A seasoned veteran in the geospatial sector, SiteVision has been planning, developing and hosting GIS Internet applications since the mid 1990’s. The firm’s experience ranges from evaluating, recommending, and designing local, regional, and state GIS applications and related infrastructures, to developing national systems designed to store and access multiple petabytes of geospatial Information.
SiteVision, (http://www.sitevision.com) also offers Internet application development, consulting, design and hosting. The firm provides solutions for a broad spectrum of markets and industries, as well as for state, federal and international entities. Expertise includes custom, back-end dynamic applications, consulting to achieve unique goals, geographic information systems (GIS), Content Management Systems (CMS), hosting services including map and GIS application hosting, as well as custom and dedicated hosting solutions.
SiteVision, Inc. participates or is available through the following state and federal contracting vehicles:
Virginia VITA CAI Supplier, Managed Staff Augmentation Services Contract (VA-051123-CAI)
Virginia VITA Supplier, Hosting Services Contract
Virginia eVa Procurement as a sub-contractor to various state and federal private contractor entities
State and Federal Sole-source Contracting
Azavea Announces Winners for its Inaugural ‘Summer of Maps’
Philadelphia, PA - April 26, 2012 - Azavea, an award winning geospatial analysis (GIS) software development company announces the winners of its first Summer of Maps. Inspired by the Google Summer of Code, Azavea Summer of Maps is a program that offers $5,000 stipends to two student GIS analysts to perform pro bono geospatial data analysis projects for non-profit organizations over a three-month period in the summer of 2012. Azavea received applications from students and nonprofits from all over the United States.
They selected Ms. Nse Umoh Esema, Master in City Planning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Ms. Angela Sakrison, Master of Environmental Studies, University of Pennsylvania, as the first participants. Ms. Esema will be working with The Campaign for Working Families on targeting programs to assist working people in managing their finances. She will also be working with PlanPhilly on visualizing the impact of Philadelphia’s Neighborhood Transformation Initiative (NTI) on property vacancy, use, and values. Concurrently, Ms. Sakrison will be working with the National Parks Conservation Association on assessing the impact of fences on patterns of wildlife migration in Grand Teton National Park; and with Stroud Water Research Center on evaluating the impact of vegetation changes in the riparian buffer on stream geomorphology and the fish community.
While this is the first year, Azavea could not be more thrilled by the success of Summer of Maps. Both national and regional nonprofit organizations applied with a wide array of potential spatial analysis projects that spanned domains as varied as environment, transportation, arts and culture, public health, food, and education and family services. The Mural Arts Program, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, National Parks Conservation Association, Morris Arboretum, Immigration Advocates Network, PlanPhilly, Partnership for Working Families, and Philabundance were among the participating organizations. The majority of the 49 student applications came from students at regional Philadelphia universities like Temple University, the University of Pennsylvania, Community College of Philadelphia and Villanova University, but a significant number were submitted from as far away as UC Berkeley, MIT, SUNY at Buffalo, University of Vermont, and University of Michigan.
“We couldn’t have hoped for a better turn out. The quality of the applications we received from both the non-profit organizations and students was outstanding. Competition was fierce, which made it challenging for us to select winning organizations and students. What this showed us, though, is that a lot of nonprofits are asking very sophisticated spatial data analysis questions in support of their missions. It is also exciting for us to see so many GIS students being trained by high quality university programs all over the US,” said Robert Cheetham, Azavea CEO and President.
From June to August 2012, the winning non-profit organizations will be able to:
Receive pro bono services from a skilled student GIS analyst to geographically analyze and visualize their data
Visualize their data in new ways
Combine their data with other demographic and geographic data
Receive high quality maps that can be used to support new initiatives or make a case to prospective funders
The fellows will:
Work on a spatial analysis project that supports the social mission of two non-profit organizations
Work with Azavea mentors to improve their GIS skills
Receive a monthly stipend
Gain work experience implementing a GIS project
Azavea is planning to renew this initiative next year, and encourages nonprofits and GIS students to continue checking the Azavea Summer of Maps webpage for announcements related to the 2013 program: http://summerofmaps.com/
Azavea is an award-winning geospatial analysis (GIS) software development firm specializing in the creation of location-based web and mobile software as well as geospatial analysis services. Azavea is a certified B Corporation that applies geographic data and technology to promote the emergence of more dynamic, vibrant, and sustainable communities while advancing the state-of-the-art through research. Each of Azavea’s projects, products and pro bono engagements showcases this commitment. Azavea has offices in Philadelphia, Boston and Minneapolis. Find more at http://www.azavea.com.
Avenza Receives ‘Geospatial World Innovation Award’ for Mobile Mapping
Toronto - April 25, 2012 - Avenza Systems Inc., producers of MAPublisher® cartographic software for Adobe® Illustrator® and Geographic Imager® geospatial tools for Adobe Photoshop®, celebrates its recognition as a mobile mapping leader at this year’s Geospatial World Forum in Amsterdam, Netherlands by winning the conference’s Geospatial World Innovation award for Mobile Mapping with its PDF Maps app and digital map store solution for the iOS platform. PDF Maps is an all-encompassing solution for the use, distribution, and sale of digital versions of paper maps to mobile devices. It includes both an app for consumers to use, discover, and purchase maps directly from and to their devices as well as a backend store to facilitate the transaction and delivery of the maps. Paired together with mobile devices that utilize GPS, such as an iPhone, the PDF Maps app provides constant access to geographic locations and points of interest without the risk of losing reception due to cell tower proximity.
Attended by more than 2,000 professionals representing government agencies, private industries, research, and academic institutions as well as developmental agencies from around the world, the Geospatial World Forum raises the awareness level of the increasing relevance of geospatial technology in everyday life. Its goal is to open the lines of communication amongst the end-users, geospatial technology experts, and policy makers in an effort to utilize spatial technologies productively in areas such as infrastructure, utilities, energy, land management, business enterprise, mining, and governance.
“Given the visibility of such a global conference, Avenza takes great honour in accepting the mobile mapping award for the technology utilized in our PDF Maps app,” said Ted Florence, president, Avenza. “Our history and expertise in developing tools for the cartographic industry along with the advances in navigation satellite systems and mobile devices have allowed us to realize our strengths and provide a navigation platform that can be used by consumers as well as private and public sectors in ways that have never been done before. We are ecstatic to be acknowledged by our peers and look forward to being part of the discussion of how geospatial technology can be further utilized in a meaningful manner.”
Competing against seven other notable products in its category from around the world, Avenza’s PDF Maps app secured the award for its revolutionary ability to acquire, display, and interact with digital maps on mobile devices and tablets. The innovative tool supports a growing database of maps featuring tens of thousands of maps authored, distributed or sold by individual cartographers, established map publishers, and government agencies. The PDF Maps app and Avenza Map Store offer a medium by which map content can be easily repurposed providing a valid revenue stream for map publishers in an era when the industry is losing its market to digital products with GPS functionality.
“Geospatial Media and Communications is dedicated to promoting application and use of geospatial technologies worldwide. In order to encourage innovative applications of geospatial technologies, the company through its publication division – Geospatial World, awards organisations from different parts of the world with the Geospatial World Excellence Awards on applications, technologies and policies,” said Sanjay Kumar of Geospatial Media. “This year, we are pleased to felicitate Avenza Systems Inc. for their innovative solution, ‘PDF Maps,’ an iOS application in the Mobile Mapping category. This innovative product is a promising solution bringing maps into mobile phones and tablet devices, and will result in better and easier usage of maps by every day users.”
To win its category, the PDF Maps app was judged on its innovativeness, practicality, social relevance of the tool in today’s world as well as the quality of documentation and availability.
Currently, Avenza’s vast PDF Maps app library covering maps for domestic and international travel and reference includes more than 55,000 USGS (United States Geological Survey) topographic maps organized by state and area. Some of the capabilities offered by the PDF Maps app:
Quickly view, zoom, pan, and read geospatial PDF, GeoTIFF, and GeoPDF® maps
Browse, preview, purchase and download professionally created maps from the Avenza Map Store from over 125 publishers and government agencies worldwide
Access and load maps through iTunes File Sharing or over a Wi-Fi or cellular network. Saved maps can be used without the need for a live network connection (offline).
View your location on the map using the built-in GPS or via Wi-Fi triangulation
Find coordinates of any location in the map, including the ability to type in a coordinate to search
Display coordinates as Lat/Long (WGS84), Lat/Long (Map Default), Northing/Easting, or Military Grid Reference System (MGRS/United States National Grid (USNG)
Add waypoints and collect/record information about locations, including photos
Export, import and share waypoints and associated data, including photos using iTunes, e-mail or Dropbox
Overlay Google search results
Measure distances and areas
Change pin colors, position, and label names
PDF Maps is available now on the iTunes App Store free of charge for personal use. For more information about the app, visit the Avenza website at www.avenza.com/pdf-maps. Pricing of each map is set by the publisher and free maps can be downloaded at no cost through the PDF Maps in-app map store.
Avenza Systems Inc. is an award-winning, privately held corporation that provides cartographers and GIS professionals with powerful software tools for making better maps. In addition to software offerings for Mac and Windows users, Avenza offers value-added data sets, product training, and consulting services. For more information visit www.avenza.com.
Bluesky Solar Mapping of Harlow’s Properties
Coalville, Leicestershire - 25 April 2012 - Solar mapping from Bluesky has been used by Kier Harlow, a joint venture company between Kier and Harlow Council, to support an ambitious scheme to install solar panels on Council owned properties in Essex, UK. Aiming to save residents money on their energy bills, provide a valuable income stream for the Council and reduce carbon emissions, the scheme offered free installation for qualifying properties.
Bluesky used the most up-to-date aerial photography, highly accurate 3D computer models and specially developed algorithms to accurately calculate the energy potential of individual roofs. These helped Kier’s energy solutions arm identify those properties with the greatest potential.
The UK Government’s Feed in Tariff originally offered the opportunity for Kier Harlow to generate a substantial income for Harlow Council via ‘roof rent’ fees with Kier recouping the costs of solar panel installation with payments from energy companies for every kilowatt of energy produced. Solar panels would be offered on qualifying properties free of charge and residents would receive savings on their energy bills for up to 25 years.
“The Bluesky Solar Potential assessment allowed us to target properties that would provide the greatest potential return on investment,” commented Paul Slater of Kier’s energy solutions team. “By identifying properties with suitable roofs the cost of installation could be offset by the income generated by the Feed in Tariff. This intelligence was invaluable as it allowed us to make initial assessments and decisions at the desktop saving thousands of pounds on site surveys.”
Bluesky has a unique method of generating solar potential maps using photogrammetric techniques to accurately measure and record factors that may contribute to the suitability for solar power. Bluesky calculates the energy potential using high resolution aerial photography combined with 3D data to determine the size, aspect and gradient of individual properties. The suitability of each roof element is then considered taking into account roof shape and other impediments such as sky lights or dormer windows, as well as potential obstructions such as neighbouring properties or trees.
Bluesky were also able to supply Kier Harlow with performance assessments and potential energy generation rates based on solar panel specifications supplied and location specific solar radiation measurements.
Bluesky is a UK-based specialist in aerial imaging and remote sensing data collection and processing. An internationally recognised leader with projects extending around the globe, Bluesky is proud to work with prestigious organisations such as Google, the BBC and Government Agencies.
Bluesky has unrivalled expertise in the creation of seamless, digital aerial photography, 3D landscape/cityscape visualisations and prints and also runs a national mapping centre, providing digital mapping, satellite imagery and aerial photography including ultra-high resolution imagery of cities and towns.
Bluesky is now leading the way developing innovative solutions for environmental applications including the UK’s first nationwide map of solar potential, citywide ‘heat loss’ maps, 3D maps of trees and their proximity to buildings and historical imagery.
Kier’s energy solutions business, part of the Kier Group of companies, deals with all aspects of sustainability to produce innovative and creative solutions to address carbon and energy agenda and building efficiency measures.
Kier provides advice and support to enhance the efficiency of the built environment. By considering premises and businesses as a whole, assisting with project funding, and designing & evaluating energy solutions, we can increase asset value and reduce carbon emissions.
Kier Harlow is a public private partnership between Harlow Council and Kier Services part of the Kier Group of companies. Established in 2007 the partnership provides repairs & maintenance for social housing and environmental services including street cleansing, landscaping & grounds maintenance, graffiti & fly-tipping removal, and litter clearance.
The government supported Feed In Tariff was introduced in 2010 and made it compulsory for energy companies to make regular payments to householders and communities who generate their own electricity from renewable or low carbon sources such as solar electricity panels or wind turbines. The scheme guaranteed a minimum payment for all electricity generated by the system – even that used by the generating household – with an additional payment for energy that is not used at the point of generation and is exported to the National Grid. These payments are on top of the saving that the household or community it making by using energy generated on site. Proposed changes to this scheme have caused confusion within the market place and impacted and may potentially impact on future installation projects.
OGC City Geography Markup Language v 2.0 Adopted
The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC®) membership has adopted Version 2.0 of the OGC City Geography Markup Language (CityGML) Encoding Standard (http://www.opengeospatial.org/standards/citygml).
CityGML is a community defined information model and XML-based encoding for the representation, storage, and exchange of virtual 3D city and landscape models. CityGML provides a standard model and mechanism for describing 3D objects with respect to their geometry, topology, semantics and appearance, and defines five different levels of detail. CityGML is highly scalable and datasets can include different urban entities supporting the general trend toward modeling not only individual buildings but also whole sites, districts, cities, regions, and countries.
CityGML provides much more than 3D content for visualization by diverse applications. It allows users to share virtual 3D city and landscape models for sophisticated analysis and display tasks in application domains such as environmental simulations, energy demand estimations, city lifecycle management, urban facility management, real estate appraisal, disaster management, pedestrian navigation, robotics, urban data mining, and location based marketing. Because CityGML is based on the OGC Geography Markup Language Encoding Standard (GML), it can be used with the whole family of OGC web services for data accessing, processing, and cataloging.
CityGML has been implemented in many software solutions and is in use in many projects around the world. In National Spatial Data Infrastructure programs in the Netherlands, Germany, France, Malaysia, Abu Dhabi and other countries, CityGML provides an important platform for the transition from 2D to 3D data. It also plays an important role in bridging Urban Information Models with Building Information Models (BIM) to improve interoperability among information systems used in the design, construction, ownership and operation of buildings and capital projects.
In comparison to Version 1.0, CityGML Version 2.0 defines additional feature types and new feature properties including new thematic modules for tunnels and bridges; the ability to model footprint and roof edge representations for buildings in order to allow users to derive 3D models from existing 2D building data; and generic attribute sets, allowing users a more powerful way to customize CityGML without the need for additional coding. Since all elements of Version 1.0 were preserved, CityGML 1.0 files can easily be converted into V2.0 by a simple substitution of the namespace values. A comprehensive test dataset illustrating all data concepts and structures is available for download at www.citygml.org.
CityGML was originally defined and submitted to the OGC by the Special Interest Group 3D (SIG 3D) (http://www.sig3d.org) of the Spatial Data Infrastructure Germany (GDI-DE), which has also substantially contributed to and implemented the current version of CityGML.
The OGC is an international consortium of more than 435 companies, government agencies, research organizations, and universities participating in a consensus process to develop publicly available geospatial standards. OGC Standards support interoperable solutions that "geo-enable" the Web, wireless and location-based services, and mainstream IT. OGC Standards empower technology developers to make geospatial information and services accessible and useful with any application that needs to be geospatially enabled.
Geosoft Releases VOXI Earth Modelling Technology
Geosoft announced the release of VOXI Earth Modelling, a cloud-based geophysical inversion software service that generates 3D voxel models from airborne or ground gravity and magnetic data. VOXI is available as part of the Geosoft 2012 Software Release.
Over the past decade, 3D geophysical modelling has become increasingly important to exploration around the world. The ability to convert geophysical measurements directly into 3D images of subsurface rock properties that can be integrated with other exploration information in three dimensions enables resource explorers to extract significantly more insight from geophysical data.
“One of the important benefits of converting gravity or magnetic data into a 3D earth model is that the visual end product allows explorers to see and understand the subsurface using now common 3D viewing platforms,“ said Ian MacLeod, Geosoft Chief Technologist. “VOXI produces a model of rock properties, which can be directly integrated with other surface and subsurface geologic observations. "
Integration is important, says MacLeod, because no one technique provides all the answers. “Geophysical models often need to be constrained by geological and geochemical observations in three dimensions. Our aim as explorers is to develop the most complete subsurface picture of geology and mineral systems that we can."
While effective, 3D geophysical modelling has been limited to use by expert modellers, and the ability to generate earth models with confidence has been out of reach for most geophysicists. With its VOXI Earth Modelling solution Geosoft is targeting speed, usability and accessibility to remedy this.
“ We have designed VOXI Earth Modelling to fit naturally within an explorer’s workflow” said Robert Ellis, Geosoft Senior Earth Modelling Scientist, “and we’ve made it fast, recognizing that speed in generating 3D inversions is a critical requirement that will allow geoscientists to use this tool routinely. Speed also allows us to iteratively improve our models as we add constraints and learn more about our projects.”
Behind VOXI Earth Modelling’s speed and agility is cloud technology engineered by Geosoft to conduct the complex geo-computing using powerful cloud server farms, with minimal drain on the explorer’s personal computer systems. The VOXI Earth Modelling cloud service is powered by Microsoft Windows Azure.
Included in the first release of VOXI Earth Modelling is the Geosoft Magnetization Vector Inversion (MVI) modelling technique. MVI allows the magnetization direction to vary within the model and thus take into account the combined effects of remanence, demagnetization, anisotropy and induced magnetization. The result is a more realistic representation of rock magnetization, which is the fundamental rock property measured with the magnetic method.
Geosoft VOXI Earth Modelling is being offered as a software service extension accessible within Geosoft Oasis montaj. Visit www.geosoft.com/voxi to try VOXI Earth Modelling or learn more about geophysical 3D modelling. For general Geosoft software enquiries and local representation, contact explore@geosoft.com.
Image with caption: A Geosoft VOXI 3D earth model with high susceptibility indicated as a solid volume, overlain with topography and residual magnetics; useful as an aid in mineral exploration, when prospecting or targeting drillholes. Image is available at: http://www.geosoft.com/media/uploads/news/news-releases/voxi-abitibi-model-black-bgr-4.jpg.
Since 1986, Geosoft has helped earth explorers make discoveries through data. Geosoft technology is industry-standard for 3D mapping and modelling of the Earth’s subsurface, and for managing large geoscience data. With offices across five continents, and a network of international business partners, Geosoft serves thousands of clients within resource exploration industries, government and the earth sciences, including the most successful mineral and oil explorers in the world. Geosoft has been ranked as a Top 150 Technology Company, and one of the Ten Best Workplaces in Canada. For more information, visit www.geosoft.com.
NASA Tests GPS Monitoring System for Big U.S. Earthquakes
The space-based technology that lets GPS-equipped motorists constantly update their precise location will undergo a major test of its ability to rapidly pinpoint the location and magnitude of strong earthquakes across the western United States.
Results from the new Real-time Earthquake Analysis for Disaster (READI) Mitigation Network soon could be used to assist prompt disaster response and more accurate tsunami warnings.
The new research network builds on decades of technology development supported by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense, NASA, and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The network uses real-time GPS measurements from nearly 500 stations throughout California, Oregon and Washington. When a large earthquake is detected, GPS data are used to automatically calculate its vital characteristics including location, magnitude and details about the fault rupture.
"With the READI network we are enabling continued development of real-time GPS technologies to advance national and international early warning disaster systems," said Craig Dobson, natural hazards program manager in the Earth Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "This prototype system is a significant step towards realizing the goal of providing Pacific basin-wide natural hazards capability around the Pacific 'Ring of Fire.'"
Accurate and rapid identification of earthquakes of magnitude 6.0 and stronger is critical for disaster response and mitigation efforts, especially for tsunamis. Calculating the strength of a tsunami requires detailed knowledge of the size of the earthquake and associated ground movements. Acquiring this type of data for very large earthquakes is a challenge for traditional seismological instruments that measure ground shaking.
High-precision, second-by-second measurements of ground displacements using GPS have been shown to reduce the time needed to characterize large earthquakes and to increase the accuracy of subsequent tsunami predictions. After the capabilities of the network have been fully demonstrated, it is intended to be used by appropriate natural hazard monitoring agencies. USGS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are responsible for detecting and issuing warnings on earthquakes and tsunamis, respectively.
"By using GPS to measure ground deformation from large earthquakes, we can reduce the time needed to locate and characterize the damage from large seismic events to several minutes," said Yehuda Bock, director of Scripps Institution of Oceanography's Orbit and Permanent Array Center in La Jolla, Calif. "We now are poised to fully test the prototype system this year."
The READI network is a collaboration of many institutions including Scripps at the University of California in San Diego; Central Washington University in Ellensburg; the University of Nevada in Reno; California Institute of Technology/Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena; UNAVCO in Boulder, Colo.; and the University of California at Berkeley.
NASA, NSF, USGS, and other federal, state, and local partners support the GPS stations in the network, including the EarthScope Plate Boundary Observatory, the Pacific Northwest Geodetic Array, the Bay Area Regional Deformation Array and the California Real-Time Network.
"The relatively small investments in GPS-based natural hazards systems have revolutionized the way we view the Earth and allowed us to develop this prototype system with great potential benefits for the infrastructure and population in earthquake-prone states in the western United States," said Frank Webb, Earth Science Advanced Mission Concepts program manager at JPL.
The READI network is the outgrowth of nearly 25 years of U.S. government research efforts to develop the capabilities and applications of GPS technology. The GPS satellite system was created by the Department of Defense for military and ultimately civil positioning needs. NASA leveraged this investment by supporting development of a global GPS signal receiving network to improve the accuracy and utility of GPS positioning information. Today that capability provides real-time, pinpoint positioning and timing for a wide variety of uses from agriculture to Earth exploration.
"Conventional seismic networks have consistently struggled to rapidly identify the true size of great earthquakes during the last decade,"
said Timothy Melbourne, director of the Central Washington University's Pacific Northwest Geodetic Array. "This GPS system is more likely to provide accurate and rapid estimates of the location and amount of fault slip to fire, utility, medical and other first-response teams."
The GPS earthquake detection capability was first demonstrated by NASA-supported research on a major 2004 Sumatra quake conducted by Geoffrey Blewitt and colleagues at the University of Nevada in Reno.
TomTom Launches New Geocoding Web Service
Geospatial World Forum, Amsterdam - Today TomTom announces the launch of its high volume batch geocoding web service. The TomTom Global Geocoder enables businesses to process large amounts of data with a single click of a button and return results quickly.
Geocoding is the process of converting addresses into geographic coordinates to allow location analysis. By combining geographic knowledge with business information, businesses can make smarter decisions that will lead to better products, as well as cost savings and process improvements. For example, insurance companies are relying on geocoding techniques to help set premiums and make underwriting decisions based on the physical locations of the insurance projects.
“Geocoding is part of TomTom’s DNA. With close to 30 years of experience developing global digital maps, TomTom is known for its expertise in geocoding,” said Dan Adams, Vice President, Location and Live Services at TomTom. “By launching our global batch geocoding web service, we are providing critical spatial data to fuel our customers’ analytic engines.”
The TomTom Global Geocoder offers the following benefits:
High volume results in one easy step, with no usage restrictions
International coverage enables one stop for all geocoding needs
Highly accurate, address point level matching
Fast results delivering hundreds of thousands of records per hour.
Visit TomTom at Geospatial World Forum booth #19 in hall 10 to learn more about the TomTom Global Geocoder, as well as other products.
TomTom is a global supplier of location and navigation products and services. We provide consumers and enterprise, government and automotive industry customers with digital maps, traffic intelligence, navigation software, PNDs, automotive systems, fleet management services, smartphone apps, fitness devices, POIs and speedcam intelligence.
Headquartered in Amsterdam, TomTom has over 3,500 employees and operates from 50 locations in 35 countries.
GeoEye and Rolta Form Strategic Partnership to Develop Advanced Geospatial Solutions
GeoEye, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEOY), a leading source of geospatial information and insight, announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to partner with Rolta, a global, leading provider of innovative IT solutions. With this new partnership, Rolta gains access to GeoEye's high-resolution satellite imagery, services and expertise to develop innovative geospatial products and services. Rolta plans to offer these GeoEye-enabled solutions to its customers across high-growth global markets, beginning with India.
Today's military commanders working in digital battlefield environments need intelligent maps derived from geospatial data and map-accurate imagery to make effective command and control decisions in the field. Rolta is exploring opportunities to leverage GeoEye's imagery service and predictive analytics' expertise to develop defense and homeland security solutions served from its Geospatial Fusion Platform to help users see, understand and anticipate change when lives are at risk.
Preetha Pulusani, Rolta's chief strategy officer, said, "Rolta has been engaged in providing geospatial solutions for over two decades. Imagery plays a critical role – especially for defense and homeland security – to enable users to rapidly analyze change, visualize impacts and make informed decisions in the field in a timely manner. We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with GeoEye to provide our customers with tools and content to meet their most challenging needs."
Rolta also plans to develop intelligent 3-D city solutions for commercial users in urban planning, construction and infrastructure development. Ninety percent of the fastest-growing metropolitan economies are located outside North America and Western Europe and in regions such as Southern Asia. Rolta intends to offer these high-growth global markets financially accessible 3-D model solutions developed from GeoEye satellite imagery.
Tony Frazier, GeoEye's senior vice president of Marketing, said, "Geospatial intelligence has become crucial to decision making. We are excited about this partnership and believe that our world-class imagery, information service capabilities and expertise, coupled with Rolta's product development and IT services track record, will produce innovative geospatial solutions that deliver clear, deep and timely insights to global government and commercial users."
Rolta is a leading provider of innovative IT solutions for many vertical segments, including Utilities, Governments, Transportation, Process, Power, Banking and Insurance. These enterprise level solutions are built around Rolta's intellectual property and domain expertise to offer unique business intelligence for impactful insights for effective decision making. Rolta's solutions framework includes Geospatial FusionTM, a suite to integrate disparate spatial and business data; Rolta OneViewTM, a BI solution for operational excellence; and Rolta iPerspectiveTM, a unique platform for SOA and "Cloud" enablement. Rolta's intellectual property repository contains cutting-edge software for mapping and earth sciences, providing the foundation for Defense and Homeland Security solutions including C4ISTAR information systems, Military Communications, Digital Soldier, and Vehicle Systems. Rolta is a multinational organization headquartered in India, which has executed projects in over 40 countries. Rolta has a countrywide infrastructure and international subsidiaries across the globe. Forbes Global ranked Rolta amongst the "Best 200 under a Billion" four times in six years. The Company is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange in cash and F&O segment, and forms part of various indices on BSE/NSE. The Company's GDRs are listed on the Main Board of London Stock Exchange and its FCCBs are listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange.
GeoEye is a leading source of geospatial information and insight for decision makers and analysts who need a clear understanding of our changing world to protect lives, manage risk and optimize resources. Each day, organizations in defense and intelligence, public safety, critical infrastructure, energy and online media rely on GeoEye's imagery, tools and expertise to support important missions around the globe. Widely recognized as a pioneer in high-resolution satellite imagery, GeoEye has evolved into a complete provider of geospatial intelligence solutions. GeoEye's ability to collect, process and analyze massive amounts of geospatial data allows our customers to quickly see precise changes on the ground and anticipate where events may occur in the future. GeoEye is a public company listed on NASDAQ as GEOY and is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia with more than 750 employees worldwide. Learn more at www.geoeye.com.
Wednesday, 2 May 2012
Macerata City, Italy, Establish GIS Platform with SuperGIS Server 3 for Data Fusion
SuperGeo Technologies, the leading global provider of complete GIS software and solutions, announced that Macerata City Hall in Italy utilized SuperGIS Server 3 to establish an online GIS platform, which can assist users in creating, managing, and distributing a variety of GIS services over the Internet to overcome the ineffective communication between the government and the citizens.
Located in the Provinceof Macerata,Italy, Macerata Cityisfamous forits rich cultural heritagesand annual Sferisterio Opera Festival held in Arena Sferisterio during summer. To continually stimulate the tourism industry, the government accepted the recommendation by Helix S.r.l., SuperGeo’s exclusive distributor in Italy, to employ GIS technologiestoenhance the governmental data fusion service.
Offering a scalable GIS server platform with complete web map services, the server GIS system allows the managerial administrators of the Information Department to build the feasible server environment to distribute GIS resources for internal workgroups and external users. Consequently, the governors can achieve the goal of improving the public service and living quality and increase the competitiveness of Macerata City.
After making a great deal of sustained effort in the Italian market, Helix S.r.l.has successfully utilized GIS technology to assist local governments and private businesses in resolving difficulties of planning and management in GIS applications. SuperGeowill consistently encourage a close cooperation with Helix S.r.l.to provide the bestand customizable GISsolutions to clients in the broad European market.
For more information of Helix S.r.l., please visit http://www.helix.it
The official website of Comune di Macerata http://www.comune.macerata.it/
SuperGeo Technologies Inc. is a leading global provider of GIS software and solutions. Since the establishment, SuperGeo has been 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.
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