Combining direct georeferencing (DG) with advanced mobile mapping technology has the power to create layers of redundancy that produce precision and reliability like never before. This is great news for autonomous applications — where “close enough” isn’t an option. Trimble® is leading the way with reliable solutions that are being used in real-world scenarios.
Between enhanced point-cloud-based LiDAR capabilities and higher-performing GNSS corrections technology, data can now be quickly tapped, taming even the most challenging environments.
Enhanced DG with LiDAR SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) sensors allow for high-accuracy data collection just about anywhere. This is done to minimize errors in data collection by building on DG’s enhanced accuracy and precision of spatial data and neutralizing the reliance on ground control points (GCPs).
It’s no secret that HD maps play a critical role in producing functional and reliable positioning for autonomous vehicles (AVs), for their ability to tell vehicles where they are in the world. They provide the crucial reference point for the decision-making systems within the vehicle. By providing comprehensive accurate data about road conditions, traffic regulations — even hazards — the car’s “brain” has the information it needs to make informed decisions in real-time.
It’s nothing short of critical for map data to properly align with road infrastructure, lane markings and road signs. That’s what enables AVs to navigate scenarios like intersections, freeways and urban environments — which present their share of environmental challenges. Beyond safety, it’s also about how quickly and accurately technology can collect and process the data. This is where the precise spatial data from enhanced DG truly shines.
While precise positioning is key, the costly steps involved in reconciling multiple scans or surveys are a waste of resources and time. Not to mention the safety that’s sacrificed by any margin of error. For instance, if the same section of road was scanned from two different directions without the discerning accuracy of advanced DG, you risk data that shows duplicate stop signs or errors in identifying which road sign is for which lane.
Quick and accurate point cloud data for HD maps = one less barrier to mass rollout of AVs
Within the AV market, DG enhances the creation of HD maps by providing highly accurate spatial data through the use of enhanced LiDAR for precise and reliable mobile mapping without reliance on GCPs. Having more accurate DG data makes cleanup and validation easier because you don’t have large errors in your maps to reconcile from multiple passes.
LiDAR alone isn’t enough
How do mobile mapping technologies such as LiDAR and advanced imaging systems work with DG to capture detailed and comprehensive spatial data quickly and efficiently? First, it’s crucial to understand that LiDAR in and of itself merely measures a single distance with no context. Without knowing where your scanner is and which way it was pointed at the exact millisecond that beam went out, LiDAR is virtually useless.
Small errors in timing, boresight or extrinsic calibration can all lead to a lot of manual work after the fact to try and interpret “noisy” or inaccurate data.
LiDAR and other imaging sensors supercharge DG which then makes it easier to interpret data and resolve ambiguous observations — like multiples of the same object.
How does Trimble’s enhanced DG tech serve AV needs in real life?
Case study 1
Railergy provides up-to-date driver assistance systems, automatic train operations and train control management systems. These all retrofit and integrate software technology to the conservative domain of rail command and control systems. The company recently required greener, more efficient autonomous capabilities for the locomotive that shunts the cars around — one that turns a laborious process into one without a driver or remote control.
A key component would be achieving reliable positioning without setting up ground control points. That’s where our DG solutions came into play, saving Railergy time and money with enhanced DG mobile mapping technology. Trimble Applanix® POS LV made creating an accurate map of the rail yard a seamless, faster automated process with no ground surveyors necessary to disrupt the rail operation. From the map, the live operation was now trackable in real-time, with automated speed control built right in.
Case study 2
NavInfo was recently tasked with generating an HD map of an underground parking structure with an accuracy requirement of 10 centimeters or better, for an automated valet parking project. Since the structure was partially below ground with compromised GNSS, advanced sensor integration and SLAM technologies would be key to providing the accuracy required to safely navigate parking the AVs.
NavInfo opted for a blend of GNSS-inertial and the Applanix LiDAR QC Tools, a LiDAR boresighting tool and trajectory adjustment software — reducing labor costs while increasing operational efficiency. Read more.
Besides survey-grade GNSS/IMU sensors and distance measurement indicator (DMI), the Trimble AP+ 60 Land with the all-new Applanix IN-Fusion+™ GNSS-aided inertial firmware featuring Trimble ProPoint™ GNSS blending all necessary measurement systems into a single solution.
Trimble is committed to disrupting the status quo to advance DG and HD mobile mapping technologies that serve as a stepping stone to the next level of autonomy.
Find out how Trimble can take you from where you are to where you want to be.
