Phase One, Quantum Systems, and Trimble have unveiled the P5, a cutting-edge 128 MP medium-format UAV camera. Under 700 g, it’s crafted for unmatched aerial survey precision and image clarity, revolutionizing high-res data capture in lightweight survey gear.
Understanding Global Shutter Technology
At the heart of the P5's design is its electronic global shutter mechanism. Unlike rolling shutters that capture the image in a sequential manner, potentially leading to distortions in fast-moving scenarios, global shutters expose the entire sensor simultaneously. This feature is critical for aerial surveying, ensuring sharp, undistorted images even at high speeds, making the P5 well-suited for dynamic environments.
Camera Specifications
The P5 camera incorporates a 128 MP CMOS sensor which achieves a dynamic range of 80 dB and features a versatile ISO range of 200-6400. The sensor’s pixel size is 3.45μ, which is instrumental in achieving a low Ground Sample Distance (GSD), ensuring detailed image capture. With a maximum shutter speed of 1/16,000 second and an operational recommendation of 1/10,000 second, the P5 can capture clear images with minimal motion blur. The camera's frame rate stands at four frames per second, sufficient for typical aerial surveying tasks.
Lens Options
Phase One provides two lenses for the P5, a 35mm and an 80mm, each tailored to different surveying requirements. The 35mm lens features a broad angle of view, with 66 degrees along the long side and 49 degrees along the short side, making it ideal for extensive area coverage. It has 12 elements in 8 groups with a minimum focusing range starting at 60 meters.
The 80mm lens offers a more focused field of view with 32 degrees along the long side and 23 degrees on the short side. It consists of 8 elements in 5 groups, with the minimum focusing range being customizable for an additional fee. Both lenses support an aperture range from f/5.6 to f/22 and share a 58mm filter diameter.
Operational Advantages
The P5’s integration with the Quantum Systems Trinity Pro UAV claims to provide a reliable solution for efficiently covering large survey areas. The Trinity Pro is recognized for its extensive flight experience and is capable of reaching speeds up to 22 m/s, with operational altitudes between 60 to 120 meters.
From a data quality standpoint, the P5 has been engineered to eliminate pixel distortion through meticulous calibration. Each camera comes with a factory calibration certificate to validate its precision.
The Phase One P5 camera offers a specialized solution for UAV-based aerial surveying. With its 128 MP sensor, global shutter technology, and flexible lens options, it is equipped to deliver high-quality, distortion-free images. The collaboration with Quantum Systems and Trimble reflects an effort to fill the demand for accurate, high-resolution data in the construction and architectural industries. As the P5 begins to integrate into professional workflows, its impact on surveying efficiency and data precision is expected to become increasingly evident.
Na, I don't think it'll take off.
Lol, not bad.