INTRODUCTION OF A PHOTOGRAMMETRIC CAMERA SYSTEM FOR RPAS WITH HIGHLY ACCURATE GNSS/IMU INFORMATION FOR STANDARDIZED WORKFLOWS

Abstract. In this paper we present the evaluation of DLR’s modular airborne camera system MACS-Micro for remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) less than 5kg. The main focus is on standardized calibration and test procedures as well as on standardized photogrammetric workflows as a proof of feasibility for this aerial camera concept. The prototype consists of an industrial grade frame imaging camera and a compact GNSS/IMU solution which are operated by an embedded PC. The camera has been calibrated pre- and post- flight using a three dimensional test field. The validation of the latest prototype is done by a traditional photogrammetric evaluation of an aerial survey using 39 ground control points. The results, concerning geometric and radiometric features of the present system concept as well as the quality of the aero triangulation, fulfill many of the aimed keyspecifications.