Photogrammetry is a scientific and technical discipline that deals with determining the dimensions, shape, and spatial position of objects from their photographic images. Literally translated, photogrammetry is measurements by light recording, i.e., by photo imaging (photographs).

Photogrammetric work - in the classical understanding, this is the process of establishing a mathematical relationship between the coordinates of objects and their images obtained by various imaging systems (photographic, television, radar, optoelectronic, etc.), as well as studying the features of processing the corresponding images based on classical photogrammetric methods.

In photogrammetric work, 2 classic methods are distinguished:

  • photogrammetric - based on measurements of objects from a single image;
  • stereophotogrammetric - a method of measurements from two overlapping photographs (stereo pair).

Photogrammetry is closely related to geodesy, aviation, astronautics, precision instrument engineering, physics, chemistry, electronics, mathematics, cartography, and other areas, knowledge, and branches of the economy.

Currently, photogrammetry is divided into two parts of photogrammetric science - general and applied.

General photogrammetry includes all theoretical foundations, the study of methods and means of application, classical three-dimensional photogrammetry and dynamic four-dimensional, where time is used as the fourth coordinate.

Applied photogrammetry includes all other areas of application of photogrammetry - geodetic, scientific and technical, topographic, space, underwater, application in the use of natural resources, in mining and industry, in geographical and geophysical research, in engineering photogrammetry in surveys, design, construction, and operation of engineering structures.

In photogrammetry, three directions of research are distinguished:

  • the first is the study and development of methods for mapping the earth's surface from photographs;
  • the second is related to solving applied problems in various fields of science and technology;
  • the third is the development of technology for obtaining information about objects on Earth, the Moon, and planets of the solar system.

Problems to be solved

The main task of modern photogrammetry is to obtain metric information about the state of objects depicted in photographs and to transform this information into a specified form with a specified accuracy.

The main task of photogrammetry is to transform images obtained from ground, aerial, and space photography of the Earth's surface into a specified projection, eliminating distortions of photographs caused by terrain relief, deviations of the photographic axis from the vertical during photography (off-nadir deviation), atmospheric correction, and other distortions that occur during photography. This is applied to create products to solve the following tasks:

  • In construction, photogrammetry methods are used for control measurements during building construction and for studying deformations of various structures and building materials;
  • In military engineering, topographic and special maps are created, digital terrain models are compiled, photodocuments are used for densification of reference geodetic networks, determination of target coordinates and own troops, research on trajectories and speeds of projectiles, missiles, etc.

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Implementation examples

Delivery of new ultra-high resolution space imagery and creation of a 1:10,000 scale orthophoto map of Moscow

Tasks:
  • Supply of new ultra-high-resolution space imagery according to the boundaries of the work area;
  • Creation of a digital orthomosaic based on the obtained RS materials;
  • Performing color correction of photos, stitching, and issuing products in the specified format;
  • Partitioning into trapezoids according to the coordinate systems used;
  • Compilation of a layout scheme for the arrangement of sheets in the work area.
Ultra-high-resolution space imagery
Solution:
Ordering new ultra-high-resolution space imagery, checking the obtained data. Creating an orthophoto plan based on RS data, performing radiometric color correction, color balancing, and adjustment to natural tones, equalizing the color in each image separately.
Result:
  • Digital orthomosaic within "trapezoids" in two coordinate systems;
  • Space images in natural color and in false-color with near-infrared channel;
  • "Coarse" ortho-images with spatial resolution of 3–5 m;
  • Map-scheme of the arrangement of sheets of space photos.
Delivery of new ultra-high resolution space imagery

Creation of 1:10,000 scale orthophotomaps of the pipeline design route from Russia to China

Tasks:

Creating orthophotoplans using RS data for the pipeline route area in accordance with the requirements of current regulatory documents.

Solution:

Data collection on the terrain's condition, development of an action methodology.

Viewing, selecting, and processing digital information from satellites with a spatial resolution of 0.5 m nadir.

Archived images were selected in compliance with the required mode - a set of images - panchromatic channel and 4 multispectral ranges (RGB+NIR). Projection - UTM, ellipsoid and coordinate system WGS84.

The procedure and technology for creating digital orthophotoplans with the preparation and approval of the "Work Execution Methodology" by the Customer were determined.

Then orthophotoplans were created based on the obtained data in accordance with the technical task requirements. Orthotransformation of materials was performed in the projection UTM, WGS-84 using RPC coefficients and the publicly available digital elevation model SRTM-90. The finished orthophotoplan was provided as a single array (without cutting) with 8-bit color depth in natural colors (RGB).

Result:

The customer received the necessary RS data, orthophotoplan with the specified accuracy for the pipeline area.

Delivery of new ultra-high resolution space imagery

Creation of a 3D model of Palmyra (Syria)

Tasks:

The goal was to apply photogrammetry methods and create a virtual 3D model of the ruins of an ancient city.

Solution:

After the ancient city was liberated from ISIS terrorists, who almost completely destroyed it, two expeditions were organized involving Russian and Syrian specialists.

As a result of these expeditions, detailed aerial photography of the entire territory of the ancient city of Palmyra and the adjacent necropolises was carried out to obtain a unified three-dimensional model of the entire monument, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Detailed aerial photography of the city of Palmyra

Aerial photography was performed from three different heights: at an altitude of 320 meters with a resolution of 7 cm/pixel, at an altitude of 200 meters with a resolution of 4 cm/pixel, and the central part was photographed at an altitude of 120 meters with a resolution of 2.4 cm/pixel.

As a result, more than 20,000 photos were obtained covering a total area of ​​about 20 km2.

Aerial photography of the city of Palmyra

In addition, ground photography of three destroyed objects of the ancient city was carried out with the aim of subsequently creating three-dimensional models of the destroyed sections for detailed modeling of the monument in its ruined state and creating a basis for planning the reconstruction of the architectural object.

Ground photography of three destroyed objects of the city of Palmyra
Result:

As a result of the photogrammetric processing of all materials, a digital orthophotoplan of ultra-high resolution of the entire territory of Palmyra was created, a detailed three-dimensional landscape-architectural model of the entire territory of the UNESCO World Heritage Site was built, a high-precision relief model of the entire territory of the ancient city was created, high-precision 3D models of sections of the city's destruction were created, which became the basis for architect-restorers. The obtained results were uploaded to the GIS, which includes excavation plans, historical and modern photographs, bibliography, historical descriptions, restoration work, etc.

Creation of a 3D model of Palmyra (Syria)

Creation of a digital elevation model (DEM) based on ultra-high resolution stereo imagery at a scale of 1:5000

Tasks:
  • Ordering of ultra-high-resolution stereo imagery for the area of interest with a resolution of 0.3;
  • Creation of a digital elevation model corresponding to a scale of 1:5000 in accuracy.
Solution:

The first stage involved performing stereo photogrammetric processing of a block of ultra-high-resolution images.

Stereo photogrammetric processing of a block of ultra-high-resolution images

Achieving a scale of 1:5000 for the orthophotoplan with a resolution of 0.3 m can sometimes be challenging due to accuracy issues. Reference points need to be measured. 20 such points were measured. The connecting points were automatically measured. Image stitching technology from a single roll was used to increase processing efficiency. Then, a digital elevation model with a resolution of 3 m was created. Some areas, such as road junctions, require manual refinement. The height matrix was converted into pickets, manually edited in complex areas. Then, vector objects were converted back into a height matrix through a TIN triangle network.

Result:
  • The color balance of the output orthophotoplan was performed automatically. The final products were rectangular sheets measuring 1×1 km on the ground, obtained as a result of automatic cutting of the orthophotoplan;
  • A digital elevation model with a resolution of 3 m on the ground was delivered to the customer.
Creation of digital elevation model (DEM) based on ultra-high resolution stereo survey materials

Creation of a digital terrain model (DTM) and creation of a digital topographic plan (DTP) at a scale of 1:5000 using space stereo images

Tasks:

Creating a digital terrain model (DTM) and generating a digital topographic plan (DTP) at a scale of 1:5000 using spaceborne stereo imagery for the area of interest, for carrying out planned work on underwater crossings of major pipelines and communication cable lines.

Selection of spaceborne stereo imagery
Solution:
  1. Selection and ordering of spaceborne stereo imagery that meets the requirements of the Technical Task, control of the received data;
  2. Fotogrammetric processing of stereo imagery using reference points provided by the customer;
    Fotogrammetric processing of stereo imagery
  3. Performing stereo vectorization of the terrain relief;
  4. Creation of a DTM in the form of a TIN model. Export, conversion, and reprojection of data;
  5. Generation of a digital orthophoto plan of the terrain;
  6. Conducting office decoding of objects based on digital orthophoto plans;
  7. Creation of a digital topographic plan, control of completed work.
    • Analysis of coverage. Selection of data according to the parameters of the imagery specified in the technical task. Ordering of source data. Obtaining spaceborne stereo imagery, checking, and transferring for photogrammetric processing.
    • Fotogrammetric processing of spaceborne stereo imagery. Performing the complete cycle of photogrammetric processing using outlines and catalogs of reference points in a conditional coordinate system and WGS.
Result:

Spaceborne stereo imagery, TIN model, and a digital topographic plan (DTP) at a scale of 1:5000 in a conditional coordinate system in AutoCAD format (*.dwg)

Creation of a digital terrain model (DTM) and creation of a digital topographic (DTT) plan

Extraction of iceberg contour features and their detection using neural network

Tasks:

Automatic detection of icebergs and extraction of spatial characteristics of objects.

Solution:

Obtaining radar data from publicly available sources. Primary processing of radar data. Training of neural network. Throughout the training process, the system constantly refines its predictions, adjusting parameters based on the difference between manually obtained structure and predicted results. Training stops automatically when the system achieves optimal performance, ensuring its adaptability and success on new examples.

Polygons of detected icebergs
Result:

Polygons of detected icebergs and their spatial characteristics.


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FAQ

Photogrammetry is one of the directions of 3D scanning, based on obtaining data on dimensions and surfaces of real objects by means of photographic images. Technically, it happens as follows. A static object is photographed from different angles, resulting in a set of images.
Photogrammetry is a science concerned with obtaining reliable measurements from photographic and digital images. The result of the photogrammetry process is often orthoimages, thematic maps, GIS layers or three-dimensional (3D) models of real objects or scenes.
Photogrammetry is a method of determining the size, position, relief and other external features of an object from its photographs. The technology is used to collect information about the geometry of various objects - from a satellite dish to an airplane body. Initially, photogrammetry was used in the preparation of topographic maps.
  1. High measurement accuracy;
  2. High degree of automation of the measurement process and the objectivity of their results associated with it;
  3. High productivity (since only their images are measured, not the objects themselves);
  4. Possibility of remote measurements in conditions where it is unsafe for a person to be on the object.

Photogrammetry plays an important role in the process of 3D modeling, allowing for the creation of realistic three-dimensional models of objects and scenes based on photographs. The application of photogrammetry in 3D modeling involves several steps:

  1. Photographing: Multiple photographs of the object or scene are taken from various angles and positions. The time required for shooting depends on the complexity of the object or scene and the accuracy desired in the final model.
  2. Import and calibration of photographs: Photographs are imported into specialized photogrammetry software, which analyzes the images and determines their parameters, such as focal length, distortion, and common feature points.
  3. Matching and tracing points: Using the software, common feature points are identified on different images and corresponding points on the model of the object or scene. This process is called "matching points" or "tracing points".
  4. Triangulation and model creation: Based on the traced points, the software constructs a three-dimensional model of the object or scene. It connects the tracing points, creating a triangulated mesh representing the surface of the object.
  5. Texture mapping and final processing: The resulting three-dimensional model can be textured, meaning color information or textures obtained from the original photographs can be applied to it. The model can then be optimized and subjected to final processing using specialized programs to enhance its appearance and readiness for use.

The use of photogrammetry in 3D modeling allows for the creation of very accurate and realistic models of objects and scenes based on photographs. This method has a wide range of applications in various fields such as architecture, gaming industry, cinema, visualization, and others. It enables the creation of models with a high degree of detail and fairly quickly and efficiently. Photogrammetry software offers various tools and functions that facilitate the process of creating 3D models. They allow for interaction with a large number of images, automatic detection of common feature points, precise tracing of points, and creation of detailed three-dimensional models.

One of the advantages of using photogrammetry is the ability to create models of objects that reproduce their real geometry and appearance with high accuracy. This is particularly useful in architecture and design, where an exact replica of an object or scene is required. Additionally, photogrammetry allows for the preservation of photorealism in models, as they are based on real images.

In conclusion, photogrammetry is a powerful tool in 3D modeling that allows for the creation of high-quality three-dimensional models based on photographs. It enables achieving realism and detail while maintaining the simplicity and efficiency of the modeling process.

Photogrammetry plays an important role in the creation of computer games. With the help of specialized photogrammetry programs and technologies such as computer scanning and laser scanning, high-quality 3D models of game objects and characters can be created.

Photogrammetry software allows for the creation of accurate digital copies of real objects, environments, and even people. Using computer photogrammetry, real objects can be scanned and converted into three-dimensional models that can then be used in computer games.

In the gaming industry, photogrammetry is actively used to create realistic environments and characters. Scanning real objects and spaces allows them to be recreated in the game world with a high degree of detail and authenticity. Such models give the game a more realistic and convincing appearance.

The application of photogrammetry in the creation of computer games allows developers to create unique and interesting gaming worlds that will impress players with their high-quality graphics and detail. Thanks to the use of photogrammetry, game characters become more realistic and expressive, and environments become more attractive and engaging to explore.

Thus, photogrammetry finds wide application in computer games, allowing for the creation of impressive and immersive gaming worlds in which players can fully immerse themselves and enjoy the gaming experience.

Photogrammetry is a method of creating 3D models based on photographs of objects or scenes. It uses the focal length and light rays passing through the camera to determine the parameters of the original image. With software such as Agisoft Metashape or Blender, photogrammetry allows transforming photos into three-dimensional models.

In the process of photogrammetry, devices such as drones (DJI) or aerial photographs, called stereo pairs, are used to create accurate models of objects. Photogrammetry also requires proper adjustment of external and internal camera parameters to obtain the most accurate results.

Lidar (laser scanning) is often used in conjunction with photogrammetry to obtain more accurate data about the shape of objects and space. Lidar determines heights and collects surface data, which can then be used for texturing 3D models.

Photogrammetry also includes the process of photo-triangulation, where matching points in images are done automatically or manually. This allows determining the relative positions of three-dimensional points and creating a mesh model.

For accuracy and error minimization in photogrammetry, analytical formulas known as CMR (collinearity equations) are usually used. They take into account image overlap, internal and external camera orientation matrices, and other parameters.

Data processing in photogrammetry is done using specialized software such as Meshroom, Pix4D, or other software that allows creating accurate 3D models on a computer.

In conclusion, photogrammetry involves many technical aspects and methods used to create high-quality 3D models of objects and scenes on a computer.

For georeferencing of the objects depicted on them, it is necessary to know the orientation elements of images in space. The task of determining the elements of external orientation (EO) of an image is one of the main tasks of photogrammetry, and is known as backsighting in the specialized literature.
Stereophotogrammetric survey is a method of surveying the earth surface or other objects based on measurements of stereo pairs of photographs of these objects. It is most widely used in topographic, aerial photographic and ground phototopographic surveying.

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