Inertial+total station+GPS for high productivity surveying

It is suggested that, with advanced GPS (Global Positioning System) receivers and integrated inertial-total station surveyors, all the ingredients are available to build up a multipurpose, highly productive tool for all types of surveying: conventional land surveying, road mapping, and aerial photogrammetry. The sensors exist and are proven (Uliss 30 inertial system and the Ashtech XII 'all-in-view' GPS receiver for SAGEM). Their partial integration has already been tested (inertial-total station for land survey, inertial-GPS for air navigation). Their total integration to become a universal surveying tool is discussed. The status of the partial integration is reviewed, and architecture considerations and operational benefits of the universal surveying tool are discussed.<
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