Unmanned Vehicle Systems for Geomatics : Towards Robotic Mapping

This book contributes to the transformative and revolutionary use of small, unmanned vehicle systems for three-dimensional geospatial data acquisition and mapping, which is considered to be a paradigm shift in the science and technology of geomatics. The book presents a systematic and comprehensive approach for the use of small mobile unmanned systems for robotic geomatics research and applications.Emphasis is placed on aerial unmanned mapping systems as aerial data collection provides better perspective and coverage of an area, and offers the ability for targeted coverage. After considering background information on current systems and technologies, the book;presents photogrammetric fundamentals and advanced methodologiesaddresses both platform and control segmentsdiscusses sensors, communication, and payload aspectsemphasises automatic aspects of sensor localization and exploration and mapping of the environment. It offers several application cases, from monitoring changes in arctic regions to precision agriculture and archaeology, presents challenges and emerging technologies and discusses the market trends and the roadmap ahead.