Trimble and DroneDeploy bring premier positioning to UAV mapping

Trimble has unveiled the integration of the Trimble Applanix POSPac Cloud post-processed kinematic (PPK) GNSS positioning service, featuring CenterPoint RTX, with the UAV-based mapping and data collection capabilities of DroneDeploy’s reality capture platform. With the Trimble cloud positioning service, DroneDeploy customers can expect centimetre-level accuracy and an automated, streamlined workflow when performing reality capture with drones.

To achieve centimetre-level accuracy with its high-accuracy offering, DroneDeploy collaborated with Trimble and its Applanix POSPac Cloud PPK service using Trimble post-processed CenterPoint RTX. The user-friendly cloud API enables the post-processing of GNSS kinematic positions based on dual-frequency observables logged by the drone and CenterPoint RTX.

The Trimble RTX family of corrections services offers users real-time and post-processed centimetre-level accuracy almost anywhere in the world. Delivering corrections via satellite or cellular/IP, Trimble RTX removes the need for base stations and simplifies workflows for drone operators. With no on-site setup, a fixed global datum, and reduced time in the field, the Applanix POSPac Cloud PPK solution with RTX greatly enhances accuracy and workflow efficiency.

Drag-and-drop geospatial data collection

“This collaboration with DroneDeploy is leading the trend for PPK-enabled drone data capture without base stations, enabled by Trimble RTX,” said Joe Hutton, director of inertial technology and airborne business at Trimble. “This evolution will expand the possibilities for operators who can now more quickly and more consistently deliver highly accurate maps, enabling drones to be used in precision geospatial applications.”

The enhanced capabilities afforded to DroneDeploy customers using Applanix POSPac Cloud PPK and RTX will elevate the accuracy of 3D reality capture models. This opens up new opportunities for drone operators across various industries and applications, including construction, topography and temporal analysis.

“DroneDeploy is delivering high accuracy by default. The collaboration with Trimble allows us to provide centimetre-level accurate data collection as simple as drag and drop,” said Michael Winn, CEO and co-founder of DroneDeploy. “In testing, we've seen large construction, energy and agriculture customers get high-accuracy drone maps simply and reliably to gain insights about the projects and assets they care about, while operating with more confidence.”

DroneDeploy reality capture software with Applanix POSPac Cloud PPK and RTX is currently available via subscription and compatible with most common RTK-enabled drones. For a complete list, see here.