Capturing the terrain using the ViDoc module and an iPhone or iPad

June 22, 2023
ViDoc module
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ViDoc is a mobile surveying device that transforms an iPhone or iPad into a powerful tool for photogrammetry and precise spatial data collection.

How does ViDoc work?

  1. The ViDoc module functions as a dual-frequency GNSS receiver that can connect to a local base station or an RTK correction network.
  2. The device receives real-time coordinate corrections from the connected base stations.
  3. These coordinates are accurately synchronized with the images and point cloud data captured by the smartphone or tablet through the PIX4Dcatch application.

The device is also equipped with rangefinders that measure the distance to the ground and surrounding objects. The combination of GNSS positioning, RTK corrections, imagery, and range measurements improves positioning accuracy during data capture.

Automatic data capture with PIX4Dcatch

Terrain and object capture is performed through the free PIX4Dcatch mobile application.

Based on the parameters selected by the user, the application automatically determines image positions and the appropriate capture rate. The operator only needs to move at a steady pace while the system performs the scanning process automatically.

During capture, users can:

  • View the positions of captured images.
  • Preview the scanned object.
  • Evaluate whether the object has been captured completely.
  • Identify possible gaps that should be covered before processing.

Data processing options

The collected data can be transferred to a computer and processed using PIX4Dmatic or PIX4Dmapper. It can also be uploaded directly to the PIX4Dcloud environment for cloud-based processing and analysis.

PIX4Dcloud does not impose a limitation on the number of photographs used within the project.

Measurement accuracy test

To evaluate the accuracy of the ViDoc measurements, DroneUA invited specialists from System Solution to conduct a comparative study.

Mikhail Turyanitsa compared data collected with the ViDoc device against ground control points measured using a Leica GS18 I RTK rover. The research materials are available at the following link.

ViDoc measurement accuracy comparison

The average deviation was up to 5 cm, excluding several individual points.

Fast field capture and processing

One of the key advantages of the ViDoc module is its speed. An area of approximately 14 acres was captured in only 3.5 minutes of fieldwork.

Data processing required an additional 7 minutes, after which a complete spatial representation of the surveyed object was available.

The resulting point cloud and control points, marked in red, can be viewed through the following online project.

Conclusion

PIX4Dcatch combined with the ViDoc module provides a powerful yet user-friendly solution for the fast and accurate measurement of complex objects and terrain.

An important advantage of this workflow is the ability to perform additional measurements in the office after data capture, without returning to the field.

For additional information or to arrange a test demonstration, please contact our specialists.

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