Correlation of image sequencies with 3D mapping data for positioning in airborne applications
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | SAAB Aktiebolag - Dynamics |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 998 000 |
| Project duration | January 2011 - June 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
Important results from the project
The aim of the project has been achieved by development of two automated methods for global ego positioning of an airborne vehicle through alignment of aerial images with a 3D model from Rapid 3D Mapping. One of the project objectives has been fulfilled by presenting these two methods, verified using real aerial imagery, on international conferences. The research work will also lead to fulfillment of the requirements for a licentiate degree for an industrial PhD student.
Expected long term effects
As planned, the project has delivered two automated methods for global ego positioning of an airborne vehicle using onboard aerial imagery. The TRL level for the methods has been raised from 1 to 3 during the project. Through evaluation on real aerial imagery, the project has shown that these two methods have the potential to be included in a future sensor network, e.g. onboard an unmanned aerial vehicle and contribute to a robust autonomous navigation of the vehicle.
Approach and implementation
The project work has been conducted by an industrial PhD student from Saab with supervision from Linköpings Universitet (LiU). The problem formulation for the project has been detailed in a ´Scientific council´ with participants from LiU and Saab. This cooperation has ensured that the developed methods are innovative and have sufficient academic depth for scientific publication, and at the same time have industrial relevance for current and future airborne vehicles. The methods have been evaluated using real aerial imagery which proves their usability and industrial relevance.