Speakers

Opening Session

Lewis Graham, AirGon, Master of Ceremonies

Lewis Graham is the President and Chief Technical Officer of GeoCue Group, a group of companies whose focus is sensor processing workflow management, point cloud exploitation and small UAS mapping systems. Prior to founding GeoCue, Lewis was the founding CEO of Z/I Imaging Corporation, a joint venture company of Carl Zeiss and Intergraph Corporation that provided photogrammetry hardware and software solutions. Prior to Z/I, Lewis was an Executive Vice President at Intergraph, managing the Mapping and Civil Engineering business units.

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Pierre Le Roux, Director, ASPRS UAS Division

Pierre le Roux is the Director of the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Division at the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), and as such, he works with the ASPRS President, Board, and the ASPRS community to promote a holistic understanding of fusing the often competing satellite, manned, and unmanned aerial sensing earth observation approaches and technologies. He holds a B.Sc. in Survey Engineering from the University of Pretoria in South Africa, with an attached major in Computer Science, and a Master of Science of Management Degree from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He is a Registered Professional Land Surveyor.

Dr. Lynn Usery, US Geological Survey, ASPRS President

E. Lynn Usery is a Research Physical Scientist and Director of the Center of Excellence for Geospatial Information Science (CEGIS) with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). He has worked as a cartographer and geographer for the USGS for more than 27 years and a professor of geography for 17 years with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Georgia. He was President of UCGIS and CaGIS and is currently vice-president of the International Cartographic Association.

Becky Morton, GeoWing Mapping, Inc. – Co-Chair UAS Mapping 2015 Reno

Becky Morton is a geospatial professional with over 25 years in the survey/mapping field. She is certified by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) as a Photogrammetrist and Mapping Scientist. She has held numerous positions of leadership within the technical divisions of ASPRS and currently serves as the Vice President. Ms. Morton is founder and President of GeoWing Mapping, Inc., based in San Francisco, CA, focused on new technologies in survey and mapping. She also served as Co-Chair of the successful ASPRS UAS 2014 MAPPING Symposium.

Alan Mikuni, GeoWIng Mapping, Inc. – Co-Chair UAS Mapping 2015 Reno

Alan Mikuni is a Registered Professional Engineer in California, and an ASPRS Certified Photogrammetrist. He worked in operations, management, and executive positions during his 44-year career at the U.S. Geological Survey. He worked for 5-years with a private-sector surveying and mapping firm before becoming VP for GeoWing Mapping, Inc., a small woman-owned start-up firm specializing in UAS surveying and mapping. He is past president of ASPRS and CaGIS, and a Fellow member of ASPRS, ASCE, and CaGIS, and served as Technical Program Chair for UAS Mapping 2014.

Dr. Michael Hauck, ASPRS Executive Director

Dr. Michael Hauck is Executive Director of ASPRS. Reflecting the diverse membership of ASPRS, he has practiced in academic, government, Fortune 500, and start-up settings; and in industries that include transportation, energy, telecommunications, and defense. He earned his PhD in Geophysics from Cornell university, MS in Structural Geology and Rock Mechanics from the University of South Carolina, and BS in Liberal Studies from Emory University. Hauck is also a student of science and technology communications, and a graduate of the Leadership Wyoming trustee leadership development program.

Speakers

Colin Snow, Drone Analyst

Colin Snow is CEO and Founder of Drone Analyst which provides analysis and survey-based research on the UAS industry ecosystem, market dynamics, and business economics. Colin is a 25 year technology industry veteran with a background in market research, enterprise software, electronics, digital imaging, and mobility. His experience includes aerial photography as well as making, programming, and piloting remote control aircraft. Colin holds an MBA from Florida Atlantic University and is a member of AUVSI, RCAPA, and AMA. Colin writes ‘The Market’ column for the sUAS News. Twitter @droneanalyst.

Abstract – Current State of the U. S. Commercial Drone Industry
Worldwide commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are emerging as a competitive technology in a number of data collection scenarios. But in the U.S. the industry is still struggling to get off the ground more than three years after The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. The Act was widely expected to result in tens of thousands of commercial drones being licensed to fly over U.S. airspace. So far it has produced only a few under restricted use. However, with the advent this year of the FAA’s proposed rules on small UAS the industry stands poised for rapid business adoption. This presentation will give an overview of the current state of the U.S. commercial drone industry and analyzes the business impact and market opportunities that the proposed rules have for manufacturers, distributors, service providers, and investors. This presentation will answer the following questions:
Are UAS really an economic game changer?
What are the proposed FAA rules and what do they mean for businesses?
What are the biggest opportunities for commercial UAS?

Stewart W. Baillie, Unmanned Systems Canada

Stewart Baillie holds a BS in Aeronautics and Astronautics from the University of Washington, and an MS in Aeronautics from Cal Tech. He has over 30 years experience in aviation flight test, researcher, manager, and ultimately Director of NRC’s Flight Research Laboratory. He lead the NRC Civil UAS Program starting in 2003, until his retirement from NRC in 2013. He is currently a private consultant, remaining very active with the Unmanned Vehicle Systems industry in Canada as a board member and the current Chairman of Unmanned Systems Canada.

Abstract – Commercial Operations of UAS in Canada – 2015
Unlike other jurisdictions, commercial operations of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) have been authorized in Canada for many years. This presentation will cover the evolution of these operations, the regulatory framework under which they operate, several examples of successful UAS businesses in Canada and look to the future regarding expanded operations, particularly for Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations.

Brian Murphy, Altavian

Brian Murphy is Vice President of Business Development for Altavian, Inc. Prior to joining Altavian in 2014, Brian worked in the photogrammetry and LiDAR industry for Northrop Grumman (formerly 3001, Inc.) serving in a variety of management roles. Brian is an ASPRS Certified Photogrammetrist and has also served as Chair of the Sustaining Member Council and President of the Florida Region for ASPRS. He has a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies and an MA in Urban and Regional Planning, both from the University of Florida.

Abstract – The Battle Between Manned vs. Unmanned Aerial
What would it take to for UAVs to completely overtake the traditional manned aerial market? Altavian Vice President, Brian Murphy, discusses his experience in the aerial imagery business working for a Fortune 500 photogrammetry firm to working for a small sUAS manufacturer/service provider. Brian will share the history of aerial imagery and show how it’s morphed from being flown with black and white film, to the emergence of large format multispectral sensors and now, the recent evolution of small UAV based photogrammetry. As technology continues to rapidly advance, does this mean the end for manned flights?

Jonathan Evans, Skyward io

Jonathan Evans is CEO and co-founder of Skyward. He was a professional pilot for 18 years with over 3,000 hours of flight time as an airline transport pilot, with commercial and flight instructor ratings in airplanes and helicopters. His flying experience includes service as a UH60 Blackhawk pilot for one of the Army’s fabled “Dustoff” units, an air ambulance in Germany, peacekeeping operations in Kosovo, protecting the Washington DC area and flying Presidential cabinet members, Congressmen and top Pentagon officials, and flying to trauma scenes and hospitals for air ambulance companies in New Mexico, Alaska, and Oregon. Connect with Jonathan (@jwce21) or Skyward (@SkywardIO) on Twitter.

Abstract – Drones and the Next Era of Aviation

The Aerial Robotics Network stands at the confluence of two great rivers – aviation and information technology. Similar to the arrival of the internet, this new force can seem strange and powerful at first, yet someday will become an integral part of our daily lives. How do we arrive there? What do we need to build in order to integrate this network safely and win the trust of the people who will benefit from this new technology?

Mike Tully, Aerial Services, Inc.

Mike Tully is the President & CEO of Aerial Services, Inc. located in the heartland of Iowa. He is a certified photogrammetrist, holds a MS in Forestry, and an MBA. His is a certified GIS-Professional, techno-geek, and the head of “Getting Right Things Done Well” at Aerial Services. Mike is an innovator and thinker.

Abstract – Mapping Fundamentals and Their Application to UAS
Small UAVs are an entirely new platform for remote sensing and mapping. The equipment and the software differ substantially from manned systems that have been in use for decades. The techniques used to produce solutions from remotely sensed data are changing too. However, the principles underlying production remain unchanged.
What cautions should I have when trying to extract useful information from that remotely sensed UAS data? How does or should the production workflow differ for sUAV and much larger manned systems? To those new to remote sensing, you must quickly come up to speed on photogrammetry, accuracy, and the particulars of capturing good data on a platform flying in an inherently unstable environment! We will review mapping fundamentals and their application to UAS.

Paul Goodman, Mapbox

Paul Goodman builds partnerships, grows product lines, and helps Mapbox customers use the Mapbox platform to solve their business challenges. Prior to joining Mapbox, Paul co-founded Acopio, a social enterprise delivering technology solutions to coffee and cacao farmers in Latin America. He has a background in international development and has helped organizations large and small think strategically about how to use technology to solve real-world problems. Paul holds a MA in information management and systems from UC-Berkeley and a BA in international affairs from the George Washington University.

Abstract – UAV Imagery Workflow
Drones are in the skies and the media is declaring that they’ll “revolutionize” everything: agriculture, insurance, natural resource management, search and rescue, etc.. At the same time, UAV work flows — how you actually make drones work for you — are nascent at best. In this talk, we’ll look at the full UAV imagery work flow for mapping and consider the essential components: flying platforms, imagery processing software, and publishing both on private networks and across the broader Internet.

Paul Braun, Continental Mapping Consultants, Inc.

Paul Braun is Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Continental Mapping Consultants, Inc. For 25 years Paul has been active in the GIS, mapping and surveying industry. His interests have always focused on applying geospatial technology to better understand complex natural and man-made systems. Paul has a BS in Landscape Architecture from UW-Madison and a MS from the University of Arizona in Renewable Natural Resource Studies. Paul currently serves as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Continental Mapping in Sun Prairie, WI.

Abstract – Lidar, Imagery & Mapping By-Products: Manned vs. Unmanned
UAS and lidar hardware manufacturers are currently focused on deploying lidar sensors on UAS platforms offering numerous new applications. Continental Mapping will compare an archeological research project with aerial lidar to a follow-on project that included acquisition and processing of high resolution imagery and video from a small UAS. Attendees will learn the benefits of both platforms/sensors, clarify expectations with acquiring and processing data from both platforms/sensors, and understand the accuracy and supplemental products that are feasible with each approach.

Dr. Max Baber, U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation

Dr. Max Baber is USGIF Director of Academic Programs, stewarding accreditation of collegiate Geospatial Intelligence programs and supporting development of professional GEOINT analyst credentialing. He has been faculty in the University of Redlands MS GIS program, and before that in Geography programs at Samford University and the University of Northern Colorado. Dr. Baber has served on CaGIS and NACIS executive boards, and is a Fellow of the British Cartographic Society.

Abstract – Preparing Geospatial Analysts for UAS and SmallSats Data Boom
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Small Satellite (SmallSats) bring increased agility and element of democratization to geospatial data collection, with exponential growth anticipated for data captured via these capabilities. Explore essential skill/knowledge requirements for geospatial analysts who will process this data into actionable information supporting better planning and decision-making. Consider application areas where UAS and SmallSats data might offer greatest value.

Dr. Riadh Munjy, California State University, Fresno

Dr. Riadh Munjy got his MSCE in Civil Engineering, MS in Applied Mathematics, and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Washington. He is currently Chairman of the Civil and Geomatics Engineering Department at California State University at Fresno, a Professor of Civil and Geomatics Engineering since 1988, and faculty and researcher since 1982. In 1997, ASPRS awarded him the Meritorious Service Award, and in 2014, the Fairchild Photogrammetric Award. He is a registered Civil Engineer in the State of California and an ASPRS Certified Photogrammetrist.

Abstract – Geomatics Engineering Program at California State University, Fresno and UAV Mapping
The Geomatics Engineering Program at California State University, Fresno (CSUF) is the first ABET accredited program in the nation. Its comprehensives geospatial curriculum prepares the student to fully utilize the potential of UAV mapping. The presentation will focus on the description of the courses and how it is relevant to UAV mapping. Also will present recent students projects in UAV mapping at CSUF.

Dr. Qassim Abdullah, Pennsylvania State University

Dr. Qassim Abdullah is a lead research scientist and a member of Woolpert Labs team, with more than 37 years of combined industrial, research and development, and academic experience in analytical photogrammetry, digital remote sensing, and civil and surveying engineering. He publishes a monthly column “Mapping Matters” in the ASPRS journal PE&RS, and in 2010, he was the recipient of the ASPRS Fairchild Photogrammetric Award. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and at Penn State teaching graduate courses on UAS, Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing.

Karen Schuckman, Pennsylvania State University

Ms. Karen Schuckman is a Senior Lecturer in Geography at The Pennsylvania State University, teaching remote sensing and geospatial technology in the online GIS programs. She is President of Seven Valleys Consulting LLC, and has worked for URS Corporation, EarthData, and the USGS. She is a Past-President of ASPRS, and has held prestigious leadership positions on NOAA and NRC advisory committees. She holds a MS in Geospatial Information Systems from Penn State University, is an ASPRS Certified Photogrammetrist, and Professional Land Surveyor.

Abstract – The Role of Academia in the Unmanned Aerial System Education and Certification: The Penn State Perspective
The technical development and the utilization of the unmanned aerial systems are increasing at a pace that far exceeds the level of readiness of both users and regulators at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Users lack a full understanding of the technical capabilities and limitations of UAS. Confusion, concern, and speculation surround the rule and regulations for research and commercial operation. Universities such as Penn State are positioning themselves to mediate such users’ lack of knowledge, offering theoretical background and hands-on training through formal courses and workshops, face-to-face and online. This presentation will summarize the industry needs for a formal UAS curriculum, as well as Penn State’s plan to provide UAS Pilot training as FAA requirements for operators are finalized.

Keven Gambold, Unmanned Experts, Inc.

Keven Gambold is a founding member of Unmanned Experts Inc., and holds the position of CEO. He completed a BSc in Psychology and Philosophy at Durham University, England and attended Royal Air Force (RAF) Officer Training. He is a retired RAF fighter-bomber squadron leader with a distinguished career of 1500 hours in the Tornado, flying combat missions in Turkey, Kuwait, Kosovo, and Iraq for which he was awarded several commendations. Keven was also posted to Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases, Nevada, and Tallil Air Base, Iraq. logging over 1500 hours flying with the Joint Predator Task Force. Keven has also published numerous peer-reviewed papers, chaired conferences, and taught courses on UAS operations in the civil sector.

Abstract – JETPACKS AND AUTO-MAPS – A Week in the Life of a Surveyor in 2030
Moore’s Law is forfeit as technological change rockets beyond logarithmic and our species is shocked by the computer-borne science of 2020:
– My 5 year old daughter will never learn how to drive a car.
– My 2 year old son will never open a map.
– Drones with smart vision and e-Loran will ortho-map every point on Earth.
– Human operators will NOT be required.
Pressure-cooker innovation is set to shake our concepts of Post-Labor Age work, value, reward and society. How will you and your profession fare?

Jeffrey Miller, GeoWing Mapping Inc.

Jeff is a geomatics professional who has been working in the consulting industry since 2008. He has wide-ranging experience in photogrammetry, geographic information systems (GIS), computer cartography, remote sensing, and LiDAR. Jeff’s interest in UAS began in 2013 when he started doing research for his master’s thesis. That research led to a blog, iphonedroneimagery.com, and empowered him to co-found GeoWing Mapping Inc. He is a Vice President and CTO of the company. He also plays active role with ASPRS.

Abstract – Gaining an Edge: Going Beyond NDVI with Multispectral Imagery
Multispectral imagery provides an a rich view into the the biological characteristics of vegetation. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is a commonly used method of applying NIR and visible light reflectances to obtain an indication of plant vigor over a geographic region. However, data extraction from multispectral imagery does not have to end with NDVI. This presentation goes Beyond NDVI, and will explain the methods, hardware, and practical uses of value-added data.

Colin Brooks, Michigan Technological University

Colin Brooks is Manager of Environmental Science Laboratory & Senior Research Scientist at the Michigan Tech Research Institute (MTRI), a research center of Michigan Technological University. He has 20 years of experience in applying remote sensing and GIS technologies to the modeling and understanding of environmental processes. He has a background in the application of decision support systems and geospatial data for solving diverse problems in agricultural systems, Great Lakes ecology, contaminated areas, transportation applications, and ecosystems undergoing change.

Abstract – Example applications for transportation infrastructure assessment with UAVs from USDOT and Michigan DOT research
Technologies capabilities of Unmanned Aerial Systems are advancing rapidly, and new regulations and exemptions are making their deployment more practical in the United States. A key area of research is developing, testing, and demonstrating these capabilities in applications that are practical for state and local agencies to take advantage of. Two applications are reviewed here: developing a method for unpaved road assessment using UAV-based remote sensing, and evaluating the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for transportation purposes for transportation purposes.

Dr. Keith Cunningham, University of Alaska, Fairbanks

Keith is research professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and is Associate Director of Research and Development at the Alaska Center for UAS Integration. He has worked with diverse UAS applications since 2009, including public safety, surveying, biology, ecology, infrastructure, and with command/control with ground controls stations.

Abstract – UAS Research at the University of Alaska
Alaska has been the center of a great variety of UAS research. UAS research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks began in 2000, leading to the creation of the Alaska Center for UAS Integration, one of the FAA test sites. All of these mission have had a strong public research component. These missions have included public safety, wild fire incident command, cadastral surveying, marine biology, terrestrial ecology, pipeline & oilfield operations, geotechnical engineering, aerosol sampling, and even the sampling of airborne volcanic ash clouds. This presentation will provide examples of these projects and how aircraft and sensors were selected.

Jeremy Eastwood, Drone Deploy

Jeremy Eastwood heads up mapping at DroneDeploy, a San Francisco-based company building cloud software for commercial drones. DroneDeploy provides simple and effective drone mission planning, flight operations and fully-automated rapid data processing, turning a wide range of commercial drones into powerful mapping tools. Jeremy’s background is in aeronautical engineering, where he worked on aircraft and jet engine design in the UK before joining DroneDeploy in 2013. He holds a PhD in aerodynamic design from the University of Cambridge.

Abstract – Drone Mapping in the Cloud
Drones are starting to be employed across a wide range of commercial applications as both an alternative to traditional surveying techniques and as an auxiliary source of information in fields such as precision agriculture. There exist, however, several barriers to entry for potential adopters of this new technology, including cost, complexity and data management when handling large quantities of information in real-world mapping applications. This presentation shows how the use of the cloud in drone operations can remove each of these hurdles, helping to realize the potential of drones as simple but incredibly powerful commercial mapping tools.

Fabien Blanc-Paques, Airware

As Airware’s Vice President of Professional Services, Fabien is responsible for the delivery of Airware solutions to our enterprise customers. Before joining Airware, Fabien was co-founder and CTO of Delta Drone, one the largest commercial drone companies in Europe. He is a leading expert in the design and development of commercial drone solutions dedicated to various sectors including energy, utilities, telecom and precision agriculture. Fabien holds a MSc in Advanced Information Systems from Universite Lyon III, Lyon, France and a BSc in Electronics Engineering from Universite Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, France.

Abstract – Scaling for the Enterprise
Commercial applications for UAVs range from infrastructure inspections and construction site surveys to environmental monitoring and search and rescue. While the business applications for drones are ever increasing, aerial service providers and other businesses looking to operate drones face common challenges to scaling operations beyond pilot projects. This presentation will cover commercial requirements, lessons learned from ongoing commercial operations in Europe, and discuss the software capabilities and architecture required to manage drones at scale and seamlessly integrate aerial data into design, engineering, asset management and decision workflows.

Baptiste Tripard, SenseFly

Baptiste Tripard is an aeronautics engineer and entrepreneur. In 2009, he joined a start-up in France that designs and produces general aviation small jet engines (the DGEN Family), where he served as an Executive Manager, defining the global strategy for the company’s Brazilian and US markets, as well as for compliance with the certification standards. In 2012, he joined SenseFly, a Parrot company, managing the development of the company in North America. He is also in charge of the regulatory watch and represents SenseFly to different authorities and working groups worldwide.

Abstract – Aerial Imaging Drones for Professional Applications.
At senseFly we develop and produce aerial imaging drones for professional applications. Safe, ultra-light and easy to use, these highly automated data collection tools are employed by customers around the world in fields such as surveying, agriculture, GIS, industrial inspection, mining and humanitarian aid. Today we continue to lead the way in developing situationally aware systems that help professionals make better decisions based on very accurate data. But what kind of accuracy can we expect from a drone and its related processing software?

Keith Fieldhouse, Kitware, Inc.

Keith Fieldhouse is software engineer with over 30 years of development and leadership experience with wide variety of computer systems. During his time at Kitware, he has played a major role in several DARPA programs focusing primarily on developing systems for aerial video based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. His current focus is adapting the technologies developed under those projects for use in Kitware’s Open Source KWIVER project for video analytics.

Abstract – Open Source UAS Software Toolkits
As the UAS photogrammetry community rapidly evolves, automated video analysis is becoming widely adopted and significant. Open source software (OSS) toolkits can provide the video analytics needed to more efficiently process data while furthering research, collaboration, and products. Current OSS capabilities are supporting communities such as Urban Planning/Development, Agriculture/Soil Assessments and Environmental Resource and Disaster Management. We will discuss evolving computer vision OSS toolkits, how they are being applied, and the need for a community wide OSS platform.

Antoine Martin, Pix4D

Antoine heads the Pix4D U.S. office, where he supports the growth of customers and partners. Pix4D converts drone images into geo-referenced maps and models, enabling any UAV to become a professional mapping and surveying tool. Antoine has been working in the UAV sector since 2008.

Abstract – Vertical Structure Modeling & Inspection with UAS Cameras
Vertical structures such as towers are usually captured using terrestrial laser scanners or ground cameras, in addition to having technicians take risks to climb structures. Structure from motion technology can produce highly accurate modeling and measurements with very specific UAS flights and image-processing workflow. The results enable the creation of full models for inspection that are CAD-ready for digitization. This presentation will highlight how Pix4D enables this workflow, from UAS-taken images to modeling vertical structures.

Walter Volkmann, Micro Aerial Projects, LLC

Walter Volkmann spent the first twenty years of his career as a professional land surveyor in Namibia, Africa, where, as an early adopter, he seized the opportunities offered by GPS technology to build a leading surveying and mapping firm. As third generation surveyor with a classical education from the University of Natal in Durban, South Africa, Walter is an innovative entrepreneur striving to set optimum standards in geo-spatial production. He is founder and CEO of Micro Aerial Projects LLC. in Florida.

Abstract – sUAS, GNSS, SfM and Virtual Surveying – the new A to Z personal mapping operation
The presentation will briefly describe the components and operational characteristics that make up a personal mapping operation. This will be followed by a description of typical geo-spatial applications and products that can be offered competitively by small UAS mapping enterprises. The presentation will conclude with a discussion about the impediments and challenges that small enterprises will be facing in taking advantage of this technology to empower and establish themselves economically in the geo-spatial service market.

Tom Breen, Headwall Photonics

Tom Breen is Headwall’s Director of Global Sales and has significant experience across many of the end-user markets served by the Company. Prior to joining Headwall, Tom held Executive Leadership positions at UTC Aerospace Systems, General Dynamic’s Axsys Technology Division, at L-3 Communications, BAE Systems, and Lockheed Martin, providing him with the background in the rapidly expanding Hyperspectral market. Tom is a published author, with numerous works produced for IEEE, SPIE, and AAAE. Tom’s educational background includes MBA and BSEE degrees from Northeastern University in Boston.

Abstract – Leveraging UAS and Hyperspectral Technology for Advanced Remote Sensing.
The convergence of hyperspectral imaging aboard UAVs is occurring at a very rapid pace. Hyperspectral imaging within the remote-sensing realm is proving to be a go-to instrument with respect to precision agriculture, geology/mineralogy, pipeline inspection, environmental monitoring, and other scientific pursuits. It allows for excellent identification and discrimination of chemical/spectral characteristics that might not be visible any other way. Integrating these specialized instruments aboard any type of UAV is challenging, and this presentation will discuss these issues.

Wolfgang Juchmann, Velodyne

Wolfgang Juchmann has more than 14 years of international experience in technical sales, product management, and marketing of industrial lasers and optical products for a variety of applications. The combination of Juchmann’s technical background, commercial experiences, and his passion for customer satisfaction are unique factors that enable him to profitably lead new product developments for Velodyne’s LiDAR division as well as manage existing product portfolios with an intimate awareness for the customer’s expectations. Wolfgang holds a Ph.D. in Laser Spectroscopy from the University of Heidelberg in Germany.

Abstract – Applications of UAV-based Quantitative LiDAR Using Velodyne’s Multi-Channel 3D Sensors
UAV applications have moved from the purely photographic to more sophisticated, quantitative measurements. Juchmann’s presentation will include abundant real-world examples of how multi-channel 3D LiDAR sensors are used in airborne mapping, forest management, oil and gas exploration, and reconnaissance, capturing changing environments in three dimensions over time. Learn about the very latest advances, deploying 3D LiDAR sensors in real-time for Sense & Avoid, as well as for GPS/IMU-less mapping.

Bob Jannarone, Brainlike, Inc.

Dr. Bob Jannarone runs Brainlike, which delivers operational solutions for monitoring applications. Before Brainlike, Bob founded Netuitive, which delivers computer server monitoring solutions. Before that he was an engineering, statistics, and psychology professor and a psychometrics / machine learning researcher. Early on, Bob served as a U.S. Navy nuclear engineer. He has authored many patents, articles, and a book entitled Concurrent Learning and Information Processing. Bob has computer science, statistics and psychometrics degrees, including a Ph.D. from the U.C., Berkeley.

Abstract – Image Processing from UAS Data: Prospects and Challenges
Image processing is keeping pace for post-flight mapping and real-time video display. One critical component is lagging: the capacity to identify events of interest from high resolution data, automatically. Without that capacity, human observers must analyze massive amounts of data manually. Analyzing images in real time runs the risk of missing important events and distracting observers from other important tasks. In this presentation, available tools for post-flight event detection and their potential for streaming high resolution event information in-flight will be described. Their huge potential for accelerating UAS deployment for commercial inspection will be emphasized.

Dr. Bernd Lutz, MultiRotor Service Drone

Dr. Bernd Lutz is the CEO of bizUAS Corp (business Unmanned Aircraft Solutions). bizUAS is the North and South American distributor for service-drone, a German manufacturer of industrial-grade, mission-proven UAS. During his corporate career of over 20 years, Bernd held executive positions in enterprise software development, high-tech C-level management consulting, international capital formation and M&A, and cross-border business development with IBM, Sykes Enterprises, Intrado, Proflowers.com, and GVC Capital. Bernd holds a Ph.D. in Information Technology from the Universität Stuttgart, Germany and an MBA from the University of Colorado.

Abstract – Look, Ma’ – No GCPs!
No human intervention required to locate those hot spots! No limits on flight time! How is that possible? Learn more about some of the most exciting UAS technologies that recently became available or are about to become reality. How will they impact your work?

Whitney Smelser

Whitney Smelser is a geospatial consultant spanning a 20 year career in the public and private sectors throughout the Western Region of the US. Whitney has authored articles in Point of Beginning Magazine, and has hosted training events in all facets of GNSS, optical instruments, and software data analysis. Whitney received a BS in Survey Engineering at New Mexico State University and has served on the NMSU Survey Engineering Industrial Advisory Committee. He has also been affiliated with the College of Engineering Dean’s Advisory Council at NMSU.

Abstract – Integration of sUAV data with Terrestrial Mobile Mapping projects
This practical analysis will cover the benefits of merging both data sets to a seamless rendering of the project site. Mobile mapping is an effective tool for corridor geospatial analysis. Supplementing additional data from an aerial platform allows a more detailed picture of geospatial assets. Project logistics and a cost benefit analysis will be reviewed. A sampling of available data merging implementation tools will be evaluated.

Dr. Mark Contarino, Enterprise Engineering Services, LLC

Dr. Mark Contarino has engineering degrees from Duke University and Drexel University, and is Vice President of UAS Programs at Enterprise Engineering Services, LLC, which provides technical expertise and integration support for the FAA’s VA/NJ/MD UAS Test Site. His past research has culminated in the first Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B) autonomous collision avoidance demonstration between dual SUAS. His recent focus is to remove the chase plane requirements for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) UAS operations through a combinatory deployment of ADS-B and ground-based radar.

Abstract – Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BLVOS) Operations for Civil UAS
Civil UAS are generally limited to operations that are within the boundaries of visual sight to satisfy the “see and avoid” requirement of federal law. Operations that extend beyond this range require an alternative means for the UAS to “detect and avoid” other traffic. Typically this is accomplished by flying a chase plane with an additional observer onboard. Automatic dependent surveillance – broadcast (ADS-B) combined with ground based radar provide a realistic means to avoid others, enabling safe beyond visual line of sight operations without the need for chase plane.

Panelists

Jonathan Rupprecht, Rupprecht Law

Jonathan B. Rupprecht is a drone lawyer, a commercial pilot with single-engine, multi-engine, and instrument ratings, and an airplane flight and instrument flight instructor. Jonathan obtained a BS in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Magna Cum Laude, and a JD from Florida International University School of Law. Jonathan authored “Drones: Their Many Civilian Uses and the U.S. Laws Surrounding Them”, advised on the Huerta v. Pirker case, and co-authored an ABA legal treatise on UAS. Jonathan is practicing drone law in South Florida at his firm Rupprecht Law, P.A. (www.jrupprechtlaw.com).

Asa Hammond, PreNav

Asa Hammond is founder and CTO of PreNav, overseeing development of PreNav’s precision-guided drones for industrial inspection, building upon nearly 20 years of image processing, CG modeling, visualization, and robotics experience. At The Society for Creative Research, he built custom robotics and computer vision solutions for Google and BotnDolly. Asa was lead robotics developer and operator on Alfonso Cuarón’s film, Gravity. Additionally, Asa has worked on visual effects for multiple superhero films, including Sin City, Hellboy, Superman Returns, and Spiderman to name a few.

Omer Mian, Applanix

Omer Mian is Product Manager for Applanix’ DMS (Direct Mapping Solution for UAVs, focusing on business development and overall product direction. Omer has a decade of experience in the geomatics industry. He has a degree in geomatics engineering, an MBA in Finance, and a PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification. He specializes in hydrography, GNSS-aided inertial technology, mobile mapping, digital photogrammetry and LiDAR, developing product lines and business development strategies for Applanix. Omer is also a licensed engineer in the Province of Ontario.

David Yoel, American Aerospace Technologies, Inc.

David Yoel is Founder and CEO of American Aerospace Technologies, Inc. (AATI). He has over 30 years experience building UAS, space systems, and industrial machinery, and contributed to the Space Shuttle Return-to-Flight after the Columbia accident. He and his team have completed over 200 flights in NAS assisting others gain FAA approvals to do similar. Yoel has two patents, is an Associate Fellow of American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics, Past-President of the Keystone Chapter of AUVSI, and a current member of NRC’s Aeronautics Research and Technology Roundtable, an advisor to NASA.

Skip Miller, UASUSA

Skip Miller, Founder and CEO of UASUSA, has been creating and flying small model aircraft since a young age and has an educational background in aeronautical engineering. Skip has been on six USA radio control soaring teams, holds numerous AMA National titles and is an expert in flying small aircraft in the 0-400 ft AGL air space. He is a former World Champion and 11 time National Champion in the sport. His award winning World Championship aircraft from South Africa is in the Smithsonian Air and Space museum.