DMC practical experience and accuracy assessment

Abstract

Accuracy of digital image data is expected to be better or at least the same as for analogue images. Since Z/I introduced its Digital Mapping Camera (DMC) into the market in early 2003, multiple projects have successfully been flown by different customers. The processing steps from data post processing to the final product generation are described. Investigations revealed a geometric accuracy which was at least similar and sometimes better than that usually achieved with analogue cameras under similar conditions. This result has been achieved despite the smaller base-to-height ratio of the DMC and is explained by the higher image coordinate accuracy resulting from a better radiometric quality of the digital image, and in particular by a better system geometry (flatness of the image plane, no film shrinkage, etc.) Taken user comments into account, the photogrammetric workflow using DMC imagery is discussed, and some experience with generating DTM and creating orthophotos is reported. © 2004 International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing. All rights reserved.