SimActive Correlator3D Enhances Large-Scale Green Hydrogen Mapping Efforts in Chile
Geo4D Utilizes SimActive Software for Large-Scale Mapping in Patagonia
Chilean geospatial firm Geo4D has employed SimActive’s Correlator3D photogrammetry software to support a significant mapping project for a green hydrogen development in southern Chile. The initiative involved processing high-resolution aerial imagery over an area exceeding 100,000 hectares.
Project Overview
The project, conducted in a remote region of Patagonia, faced challenges due to limited weather windows that complicated aerial data collection. Geo4D successfully produced orthomosaics, digital terrain models, and contour lines essential for engineering and planning purposes.
Despite the difficult image-matching conditions, Geo4D utilized Correlator3D to process Phase One imagery effectively. Francisco Ramos, CEO of Geo4D, emphasized the importance of efficient processing and reliable results for projects of this scale, stating, “Correlator3D allowed us to process challenging imagery and confidently deliver the accurate mapping products our client required.”
Challenges in Aerial Mapping
This project underscores a significant challenge in large-area aerial mapping: converting extensive volumes of high-resolution imagery into usable geospatial products. Correlator3D offers a comprehensive photogrammetry workflow for imagery collected by drones, crewed aircraft, and satellites. The software is capable of performing aerial triangulation and generating various outputs, including:
- Digital surface models
- Terrain models
- Point clouds
- Orthomosaics
- 3D models
Recent Developments in Correlator3D
SimActive has recently focused on enhancing the processing capacity and workflow efficiency of Correlator3D. Earlier this year, advancements were made to enable distributed processing capabilities, allowing photogrammetry workloads to be divided across multiple computers.
In July, SimActive released Correlator3D Version 11.1, which included a rebuilt aerial triangulation engine with improvements in tie point extraction, bundle adjustment, and multi-camera workflows. The software supports high-resolution Phase One aerial imaging systems, facilitating the direct processing of Phase One IIQ files, including imagery from large-format aerial systems.
For the Patagonia project, these processing capabilities enabled Geo4D to transform imagery collected under challenging field conditions into valuable mapping products for a large energy development.
About Geo4D and SimActive
Geo4D specializes in aerial surveying, photogrammetry, LiDAR, and engineering mapping services across various sectors, including infrastructure, mining, energy, and environmental projects throughout Latin America.
SimActive, headquartered in Montreal, develops Correlator3D for processing satellite and aerial imagery, including data collected from drones.