Program Overview

UAS-Based Mapping: Basic Principles

Course Overview

The UAS-Based Mapping: Basic Principles course, denoted as CE 59700, is a 1-credit module that covers the fundamentals of UAS-based mapping from imaging and ranging systems. This includes system integration, calibration strategies, and 3D reconstruction techniques.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Identify the key components of a UAS-based mapping system.
• Explain the principles of image-based and LiDAR-based mapping.
• Describe different coordinate systems and georeferencing alternatives.

Description

This course delves into the basics of UAS-based mapping, focusing on the principles and applications of unmanned aerial vehicles/systems in mapping and remote sensing. It explores topics such as geomatics engineering, sensing modalities, and mapping platforms.

Topics Covered

• Geomatics Engineering
• Sensing Modalities & Mapping Platforms
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles/Systems and Applications
• Remote Sensing: Electro-Magnetic Radiation Spectrum
• Imaging Systems: Basic Optics & Photogrammetric Cameras and Photogrammetric Mapping
• LiDAR: Laser Ranging, Datum & Coordinate Systems
• Position and Orientation Systems: Global Navigation Satellite Systems & Inertial Navigation Systems
• Geo-Referencing Alternatives
• Photogrammetric vs. LiDAR Mapping

Prerequisites

No specific prerequisites are mentioned for this course.

Assessment

Student learning will be assessed through a combination of:

• Class participation: 10%
• Homework: 40%
• Timed Quizzes: 50%

There will be three homework assignments and two quizzes throughout the course.

Textbooks

The official textbook information is listed in the Schedule of Classes. Note that textbook information is subject to change at the discretion of the faculty member. Some optional textbooks include:

• Mikhail, E., Bethel, J., McGlone, J., 2001. Introduction to Modern Photogrammetry. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
• McGlone, C, Mikhail, E., Bethel, J., 2012, Manual of Photogrammetry, Sixth Edition, American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing.
• Wolf, P., Dewitt, B., 2000. Elements of Photogrammetry with Applications in GIS. McGraw-Hill.
• Krauss, K., 1993. Photogrammetry, Volume 1: Fundamentals and Standard Processes. Dummler/Bonn.
• Krauss, K., 1997. Photogrammetry, Volume 2: Advanced Methods and Applications. Dummler/Bonn.
• Shan, J., & Toth, C. K. (Eds.). (2018). Topographic laser ranging and scanning: principles and processing. CRC press.
• Wujanz, D. (2016). Terrestrial laser scanning for geodetic deformation monitoring. Technische Universitaet Berlin (Germany).
• Maune, D. F. (Ed.). (2007). Digital elevation model technologies and applications: the DEM users manual. ASPRS Publications.

Additional readings may be provided throughout the course.

Software/Web Resources

A working knowledge of basic software such as Matlab, Excel, or similar is required.