Reality Capture and Digitization Technology Access Centre
(RCDTAC)

College of the North Atlantic

St. John's, NL

ABOUT RCDTAC

Your Reality: Upgraded

The Reality Capture and Digitization Technology Access Centre (RCD-TAC) is a leading center of excellence committed to delivering innovation support to community organizations within the private, public, healthcare, and non-profit sectors. Our NL-based TAC is dedicated to advancing reality capture, remote sensing, photogrammetry, geomatics, and digitization technologies. We specialize in collecting, processing, and visualizing data from advanced RCD technologies to accelerate business and community innovation.

Our expert team leverages this technology to address real world problems in operational environments through applied research projects with industry and community partners across multiple sectors. We have expertise in Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), laser scanning, photogrammetry, geographic information systems (GIS), and multispectral and hyperspectral imaging. We work closely with our multidisciplinary innovation network to increase technological literacy and adoption to help advance the profitability and efficiency of our partner businesses and communities. We are here to help you tackle your biggest innovation challenges.

Reality Capture is the act of taking a “virtual snapshot” of something real, like a building or landscape, and transforming it into a detailed 3D digital model. Digitization converts that model into a computer-readable format.

We provide a competitive edge to local industry and community partners. The RCD TAC provides access to advanced technology, expert teams, prototype development, and business guidance, so your company can innovate without the hefty research and development cost.


Contact RCDTAC

RCDTAC Heather Ward

Heather Ward
Director, RCD TAC

+1-709-765-1730

heather.ward@cna.nl.ca


PO Box 1693, St. John's, NL A1C 5P7

Services offered in: English

Request Interactive Visit: http://interactivevisits.ca


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RESEARCH AND INNOVATION EXPERTISE

EXPERTISE

  1. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging):

    Remote sensing technology using laser light for measuring distances to create 3D maps.

    Varied uses from 3D mapping, surveying, and inspection across various sectors including mining, energy, construction, environmental monitoring, and forestry.

  2. Metrology-Grade Laser Scanning:

    High-precision 3D scanning process for capturing the physical measurements of an object.

    Commonly used in quality control, inspection, reverse engineering, manufacturing processes, and high-res 3D model capture for 3D printing..

  3. Photogrammetry:

    Image-based measurements and mapping using photographs to create accurate 3D models of objects or landscapes. It is used to reconstruct detailed digital replicas by analyzing visual information from multiple images.

    Varied uses across sectors from surveying, engineering and VFX, to cultural heritage such as archaeology, architecture, and art..

  4. Drone Mapping:

    Using drones or UAVs equipped with cameras, sensors, or LiDAR to capture data of an area. Collected data are compiled to create detailed maps and 3D models, including topographic and bathymetric data.

    Varied uses across sectors from mining and agriculture to urban planning, construction, and infrastructure..

  5. Geographic Information Systems (GIS):

    Smart mapping technology that layers maps with data to visualize and analyze geographical information. The collection, analysis, display, and integration of spatial data aides in a variety of decision-making processes.

    Varied applications in urban planning, land management, agriculture, transportation, public health, telecommunications, defense, etc...

  6. Hyperspectral Imaging (Stationary and Aerial):

    Collecting and processing electromagnetic spectrum (light wavelength) data from objects and materials. Items are then analyzed, identified, and classified based on their unique spectral signatures.

    Commonly used in mining, waste sorting and recycling, forensics, pharmaceutical production, healthcare research and more..

Fields of projects:

  • 3D Modeling
  • Advanced Geomatics Technology
  • Applied Research
  • Applied Research
  • Data Collection
  • Data Visualization
  • Digital Twinning
  • Drones/UAVs
  • Prototype Support
  • Specialized Training
  • Technology Consulting
  • Virtual and Augmented Reality

TECHNOLOGY SECTORS

  1. Agriculture
  2. Construction
  3. Energy
  4. Environmental Technology
  5. Forestry
  6. Mining
  7. Other
  8. Security Technology

EQUIPMENT AND LABS

Equipment Function
Exyn Aero

Description: Autonomous SLAM LiDAR drone.

Summary: A drone that can fly by itself and uses light to measure and map its surrounding environment.

Use Cases: Inspections of underground mines, caves, and confined spaces greater than 3m x 3m. Produces video and high-resolution 3D rendering of the scanned environment.

Stats:

  • Flight time: 9 Minutes
  • Speed: 3 m/s
  • Distance covered: 1000 m
Mavic Mini

Description: 249g rotary wing drone with camera.

Summary: A small rotary wing drone that takes videos while being controlled by a remote control.

Use Cases: Drone pilot training, aerial videography, basic aerial mapping.

Stats:

  • Max Speed: 13 m/s
  • Wind Resistance: about 30 km/h
  • Flight Time: 30 mins
  • Video Resolution: 2.7K: 2720×1530
Zeb Discovery

Description: Backpack with LiDAR and Panoramic Imagery.

Summary: A scanning system that you hold on your back that uses light to measure and map its surrounding environment. Contains a panoramic camera to create a colourized point cloud.

Use Cases: Mapping indoor structures, outdoor areas, underground mines, caves, structures, ground etc.

Stats:

  • Accuracy: 2-3cm
  • Max Range: 100m
  • Battery Life: 3 hours
Flyability Elios 3

Description: Rotary Wing Inspection Drone.

Summary: A rotary wing inspection drone with an RGB camera, LiDAR puck, and a thermal camera, all inside a cage to avoid damage when hitting objects.

Use Cases: Mapping areas too small/unsafe for humans or drones to go into such as medium sized mine escape shafts, identifying heat leaks in areas, asbestos infested buildings, etc.

Stats:

  • Max Speed: 7 m/s
DJI Matrice 600 Pro

Description: Rotary Wing Drone.

Summary: A drone that can attach just about any sensor to it for any aerial application.

Use Cases: Can perform just about an aerial application based on the attached sensor – Topo-bathy surveys, aerial photogrammetric mapping, aerial LiDAR mapping, etc.

Stats:

  • Wind Resistance: about 30 km/h
  • Max Speed: 18 m/s
  • Flight Time: Depends on sensor (35 Minutes with no payload/16 minutes with 6kg of payload)
Zeb Cradle Mount

Description: Handheld Zeb Horizon mount.

Summary: Allows the user to mount the Zeb Horizon for vertical deployment underground or inaccessible areas.

Use Cases: Lower the Zeb Horizon into any inaccessible or hazardous area such as manholes, vent shafts, silos, below bridges etc.

Stats:

  • Max Depth: 250m
  • Range: 100m
Zeb Car Mount

Description: Magnetic car mount.

Summary: Magnetic mount to attach the Zeb Horizon securely to a car for 3D mapping.

Use Cases: Town mapping, mapping longer distances that a vehicle can fit through like underground mines, etc.

Stats:

  • Weight: 4.6kg
  • Max Speed: 48 km/h
  • Range: 100m
Exyn Pak

Description: Handheld SLAM LiDAR unit.

Summary: A scanning system that you hold in your hand that uses light to measure and map its surrounding environment.

Use Cases: Inspections of accessible underground mines, caves, structures, ground etc.

Stats:

  • Accuracy: 3cm
  • Max Range: 100m
  • Battery Life: 3 hours
Zeb Pano

Description: Panoramic camera accessory for Zeb Horizon.

Summary: 360° panoramic camera attachment for the Zeb Horizon.

Use Cases: Virtual walkthroughs, creating real estate, creating floor plans, etc.

Stats:

  • Resolution: 6720 x 3360
  • Capture Time: 90 mins
  • Range: 30m
ASTRALiTE EDGE

Description: A topo-bathy LiDAR sensor that attaches to the DJI M600.

Summary: A sensor that collects both topographic and bathymetric data from above while attached to a drone.

Use Cases: Coastline mapping, river mapping, measuring underwater features, object detection underwater, etc.

Stats:

  • LiDAR Accuracy: 1cm
  • Position Accuracy: 2cm
  • Weight: 5kg
  • Flying Height: Topo: 40m, Bathy: 20m
DJI Phantom 4 RTK

Description: Rotary Wing Drone.

Summary: Photogrammetry rotary wing drone that can georeference data without aerial targets if used with an RTK base station.

Use Cases: Basic aerial photogrammetry for surface modelling, oblique imagery, base map creation, etc.

Stats:

  • Max Speed: 13 m/s
  • Wind Resistance: about 35 km/h
  • Flight Time: 30 mins
  • Accuracy: Horizontal: 1cm + 1ppm, Vertical: 1.5cm + 1ppm
  • Photogrammetric Accuracy: 5cm
Zeb Horizon

Description: Handheld SLAM LiDAR unit.

Summary: A scanning system that you hold in your hand that uses light to measure and map its surrounding environment. Contains a panoramic camera to create a colourized point cloud.

Use Cases: Mapping indoor structures, outdoor areas, underground mines, caves, structures, ground etc.

Stats:

  • Accuracy: 2-3cm
  • Max Range: 100m
  • Battery Life: 3 hours
Hercules 8x with Mjolnir Camera

Description: Rotary Wing drone with Hyperspectral camera.

Summary: A rotary wing drone with a hyperspectral camera attached to collect aerial hyperspectral data.

Use Cases: Any aerial hyperspectral applications including tailings pond monitoring, forest health assessment, soil analysis, etc.

Stats:

  • Wind Resistance: 20 km/h, gusts of 30 km/h
  • Flight Time: 14 mins
  • Ground Resolution: 2.34cm
Zeb UAV Mount

Description: Mount to attach the Zeb Horizon to the DJI M600.

Summary: Allows the user to mount the Zeb Horizon to the M600 for SLAM based Aerial LiDAR applications.

Use Cases: Any aerial LiDAR applications.

Stats:

  • Max Flying Height: 40m above features
  • Max Speed: 5 m/s
  • Weight: 3.6kg with Zeb Horizon attached
Creaform HandySCAN

Description: Metrology grade 3D scanner.

Summary: A handheld scanner that uses measurements to scan stationary objects.

Use Cases: High resolution scans, dent mapping, 3D model production of 3D printing, reverse engineering.

Stats:

  • Accuracy: 0.025mm
  • Resolution: 0.025mm
Tello Edu

Description: < 250g programmable rotary wing drone.

Summary: A small, remote control rotary wing drone with a video camera that can be programmed to fly on its own.

Use Cases: Basic drone mapping and drone pilot training.

Stats:

  • Flight Distance: 100m
  • Flight Time: 13 mins
  • Video Resolution: 720p HD
  • Photo Resolution: 5 megapixel
ViDoc RTK

Description: RTK Rover Attachment for the iPad Pro.

Summary: Attaches to an iPad Pro to georeferenced the images and LiDAR collected with the iPad’s camera.

Use Cases: Easily georeferencing scans of objects such as cars, fire hydrants, buildings, etc.

Stats:

  • Height Limit: 5m
  • Accuracy: <2cm
Leica BLK 360 G2

Description: A small terrestrial imaging scanner.

Summary: A compact terrestrial scanner mounted on a tripod that collects LiDAR and imagery to create a colourized point cloud. Controlled by an iPad Pro.

Use Cases: Scanning in areas traditional terrestrial scanners would not fit, photorealistic building scans, etc.

Stats:

  • Accuracy: 4mm at 10m
  • Resolution: 13 megapixels at 360 x 269
  • Range: 0.5m – 40m
  • 94814 Newfoundland and Labrador Ltd.
  • Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
  • Baie Minerals Inc.
  • Barite Mud Services Inc.
  • Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI)
  • EcoNext
  • Feaver's Lane Enterprises Inc.
  • Government of NL, Dept. of Industry, Energy and Technology (IET)
  • Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Ladder Spike Inc.
  • Maritime Resources Corp.
  • Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
  • Municipalities NL (Town of Placentia, Town of Stephenville)
  • Nditive3D Inc.
  • Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC)
  • Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
  • Resource Innovations Inc.
  • SeaThru Technologies Inc.
  • Sikumiut Environmental Management Ltd. (SEM)
  • Springboard Atlantic
  • Tech-Access Canada
  • TechNL

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