Accuracy through innovative design

The DMC system was developed to bring the benefits of digital technology to aerial mapping cameras. To achie

ve the level of precision that users have grown accustomed to with film-based aerial cameras,
the DMC incorporates rigidly mounted frame sensors, giving stable internal geometry. Frame geometry is the preferred method for producing stable and reliable digital imagery. In addition, the new camera was designed to perform under diverse light conditions with a wide range of exposure times and utilizes electronic Forward Motion Compensation (FMC).

Charge Coupled Device (CCD) sensors record precise geometry

Employing CCD frame (matrix) sensor technology allows the DMC to meet rigorous goals and offers advantages not seen with small-format framing sensor technology or line sensor technology. The technology ensures rigid image geometry in a fashion analogous to a precision film platen. The DMC is not dependent upon Global Positioning System (GPS) if used. Even if GPS lock is completely lost, flight conditions are severely turbulent, or light conditions are poor, users can be assured that high-quality metric imagery is “in the can” and ready to exploit using traditional photogrammetric methods.

Innovative camera, lens, and shutter technology

Z/I Imaging partnered with Carl Zeiss to develop a unique lens design, minimizing distortion and maximizing resolution. The DMC’s innovative design solves the problem of the size limitation of array CCDs by amalgamating eight individual CCD array cameras into a composite system. The DMC possesses a unique lens system, featuring minimal distortion, large (f/4) aperture, high resolution, and homogenous field response.

Forward Motion Compensation (FMC)

Electronic FMC is an absolute necessity for acquiring a blur-free image under large-scale mapping conditions. To allow fully electronic FMC of the digital image, the CCD matrix sensors used in the DMC camera heads are operated in time-delayed integration mode.