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How are SmarTargets used?

SmarTargets are GPS-enabled Ground Control Points used in aerial photogrammetry, LiDAR, and mapping to accurately and quickly establish the location of the target.  The coordinate is used in image processing.

Although not required, we recommend using the provided Locator software mission Planning tools to set up your project and plan the placement of targets visually.  Select your camera and flight height, establish the flight boundary lines, and place targets virtually.  When satisfied with the plan, select Output KML to create a project-boundary.kml and project-FlightPlanning.kml file that can be loaded to your flight software, shared with the flight team, and your customer.

Now go into the field and place the double-sided cloth targets.  These offer a significant improvement in visibility and contrast for airborne cameras based on research with varying terrain conditions.  For instance, on concrete or asphalt surfaces, the orange/black checker is optimum whereas the white/black checker would fade as the camera is at higher altitudes.  Conversely, on green grasses and similar surfaces, the white/black grid has great contrast to the surrounding environment and is easily registered on the camera, where orange/black colors will fuse and in reflective lighting, disappear in the image.  Grommets sewn into the corners allow you to nail the target down if winds are a concern.  Press the power button on the SmarTarget, and set it down in the center of the target.  Now go fly.

When your flight is complete, pack everything up and return to the office.  Plug in your SmarTargets with the provided multi-port hub and USB cables.  Use Locator to download the data simultaneously and process coordinates for the GCPs.

What drone is suggested with the SmarTarget system?

You can use any drone with the SmarTarget system.  Our system does not communicate with the drone.

Note:  There are operational requirements or considerations that are driven by the minimum requirements for the camera or LiDAR unit on the drone.  

InTerra is interested in partnering with drone manufacturers, feel free to contact us at https://interra5d.com/contact/

What image processing software is required?

The InTerra SmarTarget system is designed to work independently of drone and image processing software.  The end result is a Ground Control Point (GCP) in Lat/Long/Ht, State Plane NEE/XYZ, and ECEF written to a CSV file.  Use the format that fits your workflow and your software.

How many SmarTargets do I need?

Considering the kit contains five SmarTargets, we recommend placing a minimum of at least three SmarTarget units, while placing all five will yield the most optimal and accurate ground control.

One unit is better than zero units!

For more information about the number of GCP’s needed for a large area, follow this link to a study from Pix4D in conjunction with Nevada DOT.

Is software included?

Locator is included at no charge, and without a subscription fee.  Lifetime updates are included. 

Locator is the software companion to the InTerra SmarTarget® system of GNSS receiver targets and is the only software designed to manage the data from InTerra SmarTargets. It uses the specifically designed interface for Project coordination, Mission Planning, Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) management, Results review, and Export Ground Control Points.

How many people does it take to operate the SmarTarget system?

The SmarTarget system can be operated by a single person. 

Can I add my own camera to the mission planning tab?

Yes!  The online documentation has a section describing this process – see this link: https://interra5d.com/docs/help/UAVsjson.html

Does InTerra offer a warranty for the SmarTarget® system?

We warranty for quality and system failure. However, accidental or intentional damage, or theft, is not warranted. Regarding the question of the replacement of a single unit – if a unit is destroyed beyond repair, we will offer an option to purchase a replacement to the original purchaser.

How do SmarTarget’s handle weather?

SmarTarget’s are IP67 rated.

IP = Ingress Protection, ratings are represented by combining the first and second digits

6 = dust tight

7 = protected against the effects of temporary immersion in water

Where are SmarTarget’s made? 

Made in America!  It’s true.  Our boards are made in Texas, the antennas are from Texas too.  The GPS chip is from Switzerland.  The batteries come from Czechia.  LED’s and subcomponents from Japan.  The base and lids are made in Huntsville and everything is assembled in Huntsville, AL. 

Is there a charge for shipping?

No, we love our customers, so shipping is included in the price shown. 

Can I get an evaluation kit?

Yes, it’s a great way to see what all the excitement is all about!  Contact us directly via the contact us page (https://interra5d.com/contact/) to discuss how.

I ran over one of my units in the parking lot, can I get it replaced?

While it saddens us to hear that one of our little boxes was damaged so severely that it is unusable, we understand that accidents happen.  Gather up the parts and see the Warranty at https://interra5d.com/faq/does-interra-offer-a-warranty-for-the-smartarget-system/

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