QUALITY

Aerial Data Service is committed to producing the highest quality work possible for our clients. Prior to start-up of each project, ADS's project manager establishes a written work order detailing each specification of the project, and uses our comprehensive quality control plan to monitor all phases of photogrammetric map development.

Aerial Photography Measures
Our aircraft's video system allows the pilot and aerial photographer to view the ground from the perspective of the aerial camera, which ensures flight-line integrity and correct photo coverage. The Zeiss gyro-stabilized camera mount automatically levels the camera during the photo missions. Forward motion compensation (FMC), a device in the camera which compensates for the forward motion of the aircraft while the shutter is open, reduces blurring of the photographic image. Flight-preparation software enables the pilot to preprogram the entire mission, including the latitude and longitude of each flight line and individual exposure. These data are used by flight system computers to control camera functions. Photography is obtained by Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation methods that virtually eliminate the need for re-flights. The predetermined flight line and exposure data are used to control camera functions.

Ground Control Measures
Aerial targets are checked before the aerial photography mission. GPS planning software is consulted prior to conducting GPS surveys. Field survey crews process satellite data daily.

Digital Map Compilation Measures
Our stereoplotters are equipped with superimposition, which allows for 3-D viewing of the photographic model and map graphics simultaneously, thus reducing omissions of map features during data capture. The cartographically edited maps are again reviewed in both softcopy 3-D and hardcopy format, ensuring the data are not compromised during manipulation. Once the data have been translated into the requested software format and written to the appropriate medium, content and quality are verified.

Digital Orthophoto Rectification Measures
Digital images are scanned directly from the aerial film in environmentally clean conditions. Prior to orthophoto rectification, the scanned images are checked on the workstation for completeness, cleanliness and quality. After rectification, the orthophoto is checked for accuracy by cross-referencing the control points with coordinate locations from the original ground survey.