Design, Implementation and Simulation of an Experimental Multi-Camera Imaging System for Terrestrial and Multi-Purpose Mobile Mapping Platforms: A Case Study

Abstract

Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS’s) are powerful tools for rapidly and massively collecting imagery in various environments (e.g., rural, semi-urban, urban). In particular, the data collected at terrestrial level can be exploited to complement aerial acquisitions for extending GIS databases,visualizing and modeling urban environments and studying environment morphogenesis over time. Hence, the development of mobile mapping platforms is a topic of great interest for many mapping agencies and surveying companies. Moreover, the experimental imaging systems of mapping vehicles are equipped with varied infrastructures in part resulting from the wide range of targeted applications. Determining a detailed design procedure for such imaging systems is of critical importance, and can be both arduous and time-consuming. Although commercial imaging systems can be exploited directly they are often pre-configured for specific applications. For these reasons, we propose a case study that deals with the development of an orientable and scalable imaging system. In particular, this paper focusses on the primary stage of the mechanical implementation of a multi-camera infrastructure. To this effect, we provide a design document that includes full technical specifications and drawings for creating a roof-mounted camera mast from a vehicle platform. We also provide an inventory of resources required for creating the system. As part of the design process we analyse some well-known MMS’s paying particular attention to their imaging systems. Finally, we evaluate the proposed design by creating the complete 3D mock-up of the camera system at real-scale and by simulating camera configurations from an experimental van platform. Experimental results clearly show the usefulness of this study in the design of an experimental and multi-purpose imaging system.