Technology > Data Positioning Tools
UIT obtains accurate data positioning information through the use of global positioning systems (GPS) and/or laser positioning systems (LPS). With GPS or LPS sensors mounted to the geophysical hardware, UIT is routinely able to achieve centimeter-level accuracy in positioning its multi-channel GPR and TDEM sensor data. Using UIT's Data Processor Engine (DPE), positioning data is converted to local project coordinates and easily integrated with geophysical data. The accuracy achieved in data positioning ultimately results in more robust and precisely detailed subsurface images.
Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
UIT preferentially incorporates the NavCom SF-2040 GPS sensor to deliver precise data positioning in a cost-effective manner. The SF-2040 sensor is a 10-channel dual frequency precision GPS sensor that uses the StarFire(TM) network, NavCom's worldwide differential GPS system, for quick and reliable sub-decimeter level position accuracy virtually anywhere in the world. UIT also implements Thales Navigation GPS sensors employing differential corrections and RTK messages to provide real-time, on-the-fly centimeter-level positioning accuracy. Other GPS systems may be integrated as well. Regardless of the hardware, the GPS receiver is mounted directly to the geophysical platform and positioning information is recorded with UIT's proprietary Data Acquisition Shell (DAS) software.
Laser Positioning Systems (LPS)
The ArcSecond 3D Laser Theodolite system may be incorporated with the integrated geophysical sensors in areas where GPS systems do not have good sky visibility. The laser transmitters allow an operator to record positioning information at centimeter-level accuracy throughout a project area regardless of the site conditions, then laser transmitters conform the positioning information to the local map coordinates. The LPS system also has the capability of tracking several individual positioning sensors simultaneously, thus enabling an operator to accurately track and record the position of each geophysical sensor. Finally, the LPS information is handled and recorded by UIT's proprietary Data Acquisition Shell (DAS) software.