
Finnish Geodetic Institute
The Finnish Geodetic Institute (FGI), a research institute for mapping sciences located near Helsinki, Finland, purchased the SOCET SET Pro Bundle as well as SOCET SET’s BINGO module to assist in their ongoing efforts to create an ideal research and testing environment. FGI’s primary responsibility is to research geospatial information and develop methods for public authorities and companies in Finland and elsewhere. Therefore the robust processing capabilities of SOCET SET’s new Adaptive Tie-Point Matcher (ATM) as well as its ability to work with multiple sensors in a single block adjustment is attractive to the FGI team. ATM can match imagery and create tie points automatically from disparate sensors, saving valuable time and resources. Furthermore, using SOCET SET’s Developers Kit, they can create their own sensor models with ease.
FGI manages and processes geodetic information and develops methods to support the national spatial data infrastructure of Finland. It is also tasked with fostering the introduction of geodetic, geoinformatic, remote sensing, and navigation methods and equipment in the acquisition and processing of geospatial information. Furthermore, it conducts field tests for airborne mapping, and manages geospatial metrology and the nationwide coordinate systems.
Among its responsibilities are studying and researching:
- changes in the Antarctic ice load that cause crustal deformations
- horizontal and vertical crust movement; large-scale postglacial land uplift
- metrological measurements, which include the maintenance and development of the national gravity network
- the quality and accuracy of GPS measurements.
The explosion of satellite technology and increased demands on geospatial accuracy and exploitation have yielded numerous innovative measuring and mapping techniques, which in turn require more extensive, continuous R&D efforts for the analysis of remotely sensed data. Through its research, FGI discovers and employs the highest standards and resources to promote excellence in the industry.
To succeed in this area, it renews its equipment, processes, and production lines on a regular basis. After a thorough evaluation of the products available, FGI opted to update to SOCET SET and BINGO. SOCET SET, with its unequalled range of image imports and sensor models for multiple sources, provides an ideal resource for FGI’s extensive research. BINGO performs photogrammetric bundle adjustment with self-calibration, based on rigorous mathematics: GPS, IMU and ground measurements, all included in the rigorous adjustment process. Moreover, BINGO uses groundbreaking statistical techniques for quality control checks; delivers fast adjustment of huge blocks; and produces smooth, reliable triangulation for rapid product creation.
The investment in these innovative tools gives FGI a broader canvas from which to work, and ensures accurate, timely results — important elements as it creates and disseminates photogrammetric and metrological testing methodologies and quality control baselines for geospatial data and airborne imaging systems.
FGI has an extensive network of contacts both in Finland and abroad, and its stature as a renowned European research institute, which serves the government, business sector and academia, is rising.
The Finnish Geodetic Institute at a glance
Department of Geodesy and Geodynamics
Establishes and maintains Finnish reference frames, the national geodetic and gravity networks, and builds relationships with the corresponding frames and measurements of neighboring countries and international systems. In addition, the Department carries out research in geodynamics, gravity and metrology.
Department of Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry
Carries out research in photogrammetry, remote sensing, mapping accuracy and calibration of airborne sensors. The Sjökulla photogrammetric test field is used in research projects for the Department.
Department of Geoinformatics and Cartography
Develops and researches geoinformatics for acquisition, storage, and analysis; uses geospatial information in visualization and cartographic presentations.
The Department of Navigation and Positioning
Carries out research into satellite-based real-time positioning, map- and satellite-based navigation, kinematic geodesy and kinematic mapping methods.
Metsähovi research station
The Department of Geodesy and Geodynamics manages all geodetic work that takes place at the Metsähovi research station, which is available to each of the four departments at FGI. The research and testing facility has a geodetic station, gravity laboratory and affiliated research site at Sjökulla.
For more information, visit the FGI website: www.fgi.fi.