HomeMy WebLinkAbout13 - Digital Orthophotography & Two-Foot Contour ServicesCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item No. 13
December 13, 2005
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Public Works Department,
Stephen G. Badum, x3311, sbadum @city.newport - beach.ca.us
Dennis Danner, x3121, ddanner @city.newport - beach.ca.us
SUBJECT: DIGITAL ORTHOPHOTOGRAPHY AND TWO -FOOT CONTOUR
SERVICES — APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH MERRICK & COMPANY
RECOMMENDATION
Approve a Professional Services Agreement with Merrick & Company for services to
produce digital orthophotography and two -foot digital contours at a proposed cost of
$148,566.
BACKGROUND:
In January 2001, the City contracted with Merrick & Company to perform digital
orthophotographic services. The product provided by Merrick & Company is utilized
daily by staff members for planning and analysis purposes. The existing data set is an
integral component of the City's Geographic Information System (GIS) and Computer
Aided Design (CAD) applications. It is also being widely accessed by residents using
the City's Internet based mapping services,
Digital orthophotography is computerized aerial photography that has been corrected in
a manner that places all visible ground features in their true map position and also
corrects displacement due to relief or tilt. Any other digital geographic data owned or
created by the City in the same coordinate system precisely fits over the digital
orthophotography in a true earth- referenced position. This high resolution imagery
allows staff and web users to zoom in and see very small features on the ground. This
makes the imagery useful for a large number of infrastructure planning, utility planning,
operations, and management tasks within the City.
Due to new development in the City, the existing digital orthophotography from 2001 is
becoming less useful in many portions of the City.
In 2001, digital contours were not part of the contracted services. In 2004 the City
contracted with Merrick & Company to produce two -foot digital contours based on the
2001 imagery for the Buck Gully /Newport Coast area. This data is vital for continuing
storm water assessment and other City projects. Unfortunately, due to the grading for
development in the area, the contours are not a completely accurate representation of
the current ground conditions. This new proposal includes the generation of two -foot
digital contours for the entire City as well as the digital imagery.
Subject: Digital Orthopholography and Two -Foot Contour Services — Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Merrick
and Company
December 13, 2005
Page 2
The proposal is based upon Los Angeles County's competitive selection for Digital
Aerial Imagery Data and Services for the Los Angeles Region Imagery Acquisition
Consortium (LAR -IAC). Los Angeles County (LAC) selected the team of Vargis /Merrick
to perform the work which is currently in progress. (Vargis is the prime for the LAC
work). The LAC contract involves a very similar scope of work needed over a much
larger geographic area. The City will benefit from a cost savings of $35,119 due
primarily to the reduced cost of equipment mobilization, as the contract is essentially an
extension of services provided by the Vargis /Merrick team in LAC.
In order to take advantage of the potential cost savings presented in this proposal, the
Merrick & Company /VARGIS team (with Merrick as the prime contractor) will need a
notice to proceed no later than December 14, 2005. This shortened timeline is due to
the pre- arranged equipment scheduling of specialized aircraft that is being utilized for
the LAC project. This timeline also precludes the opportunity of utilizing the RFP
process for this project.
Environmental Review:
Not required.
Funding Availability:
Because of the general benefit to all City functions, the cost will be spread over several
funds. There are sufficient funds available in the following accounts for the project:
Account Description
General Fund — Miscellaneous Studies
Contributions — City Aerial
Water Enterprise — Aerial Photos
Water Enterprise — Aerial Photos
Transportation & Circulation — Aerial Photos
Measure M — Turnback — Aerial Photos
Prepared by
Robert Stein, P. E.
Principal Civil Engineer
Prepared by: !J
Rob MurpKy v
GIS Coordinator
Account Number
Amount
7014- C5100763
$35,000.00
7251- C5100763
$40,000.00
7501- C5100763
$22,000.00
7531- C5100763
$22,000.00
7261- C5100763
$22,000.00
7281- C5100763
$22,000.00
Total:
$163,000.00
Submitted; -�
�Steph`6n G. -Badum
Public Works Director
,. - - Submitted by
Dennis Danner `
Director of Administrative Services
Attachment: Professional Services Agreement
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
MERRICK & COMPANY
FOR CITY- WIDE AERIAL PHOTOS AND CONTOURS
OF NEWPORT BEACH
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of this day of
2005, by and between the CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH, a Municipal Corporation
( "City "), and MERRICK & COMPANY, a Colorado corporation whose address is 5755
Mark Dabling Boulevard, Suite 350, Colorado Springs, CO, 80919 ( "Consultant'), and
is made with reference to the following:
RECITALS
A. City is a municipal corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws
of the State of California with the power to carry on its business as it is now
being conducted under the statutes of the State of California and the Charter of
City.
B. City is planning to update city -wide aerial photos and contours for the City of
Newport Beach.
C. City desires to engage Consultant to prepare aerial photos of the City as
described in Attachment A ( "Project').
D. Consultant possesses the skill, experience, ability, background, certification and
knowledge to provide the services described in this Agreement.
E. The principal member of Consultant for purposes of Project, shall be Brian
Raber, Vice President.
F. City has solicited and received a proposal from Consultant, has reviewed the
previous experience and evaluated the expertise of Consultant, and desires to
retain Consultant to render professional services under the terms and conditions
set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is mutually agreed by and between the undersigned parties as
follows:
1. TERM
The term of this Agreement shall commence on the above written date, and shall
terminate on the 3151 day of December, 2006, unless terminated earlier as set forth
herein.
2. SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED
Consultant shall diligently perform all the services described in the Scope of
Services attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference. The
City may elect to delete certain tasks of the Scope of Services at its sole
discretion.
3. TIME OF PERFORMANCE
Time is of the essence in the performance of services under this Agreement and
Consultant shall perform the services in accordance with the schedule included
in Exhibit A. The failure by Consultant to strictly adhere to the schedule may
result in termination of this Agreement by City.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Consultant shall not be responsible for delays
due to causes beyond Consultant's reasonable control. However, in the case of
any such delay in the services to be provided for the Project, each party hereby
agrees to provide notice to the other party so that all delays can be addressed.
3.1 Consultant shall submit all requests for extensions of time for
performance in writing to the Project Administrator not later than ten (10)
calendar days after the start of the condition that purportedly causes a
delay. The Project Administrator shall review all such requests and may
grant reasonable time extensions for unforeseeable delays that are
beyond Consultant's control.
3.2 For all time periods not specifically set forth herein, Consultant shall
respond in the most expedient and appropriate manner under the
circumstances, by either telephone, fax, hand - delivery or mail.
4. COMPENSATION TO CONSULTANT
City shall pay Consultant for services described in the Scope of Service attached
hereto as Exhibit A during the term of the Agreement based on the percent of
work performed to the City's satisfaction. Consultant's compensation for all work
performed in accordance with this Agreement, including all reimbursable items
and subconsultant fees, shall not exceed One Hundred Forty -Eight Thousand,
Five Hundred Sixty -Six Dollars and no /100 ($148,566.00) without additional
authorization from City.
4.1 Consultant shall submit monthly invoices to City describing the work
performed the preceding month. Consultant's bills shall include the name
of the person who performed the work, a brief description of the services
performed and /or the specific task in the Scope of Services to which it
relates, the date the services were performed, and a description of any
reimbursable expenditures. City shall pay Consultant no later than thirty
(30) days after approval of the monthly invoice by City staff.
4.2 City shall reimburse Consultant only for those costs or expenses
specifically approved in this Agreement, or specifically approved in
advance by City. Unless otherwise approved, such costs shall be limited
and include nothing more than the following costs incurred by Consultant
E
A. The actual costs of subconsultants for performance of any of the
services that Consultant agrees to render pursuant to this
Agreement, which have been approved in advance by City and
awarded in accordance with this Agreement.
B. Approved reproduction charges.
C. Actual costs and /or other costs and /or payments specifically
authorized in advance in writing and incurred by Consultant in the
performance of this Agreement.
4.3 Consultant shall not receive any compensation for Extra Work performed
without the prior written authorization of City. As used herein, "Extra
Work" means any work that is determined by City to be necessary for the
proper completion of the Project, but which is not included within the
Scope of Services and which the parties did not reasonably anticipate
would be necessary at the execution of this Agreement.
5. PROJECT MANAGER
Consultant shall designate a Project Manager, who shall coordinate all phases
of the Project. This Project Manager shall be available to City at all reasonable
times during the Agreement term. Consultant has designated Brian Holzworth
to be its Project Manager. Consultant shall not remove or reassign the Project
Manager or any personnel listed in Exhibit A or assign any new or replacement
personnel to the Project without the prior written consent of City. City's approval
shall not be unreasonably withheld with respect to the removal or assignment of
non -key personnel.
Consultant, at the sole discretion of City, shall remove from the Project any of its
personnel assigned to the performance of services upon written request of City.
Consultant warrants that it will continuously furnish the necessary personnel to
complete the Project on a timely basis as contemplated by this Agreement.
6. ADMINISTRATION
This Agreement will be administered by the Public Works Department. Robert
Stein shall be the Project Administrator and shall have the authority to act for
City under this Agreement. The Project Administrator or his authorized
representative shall represent City in all matters pertaining to the services to be
rendered pursuant to this Agreement.
7. CITY'S RESPONSIBILITIES
In order to assist Consultant in the execution of its responsibilities under this
Agreement, City agrees to, where applicable: Provide access to, and upon
request of Consultant, one copy of all existing relevant information on file at City.
City will provide all such materials in a timely manner so as not to cause delays
in Consultant's work schedule.
3
8. STANDARD OF CARE
8.1 All of the services shall be performed by Consultant or under Consultant's
supervision. Consultant represents that it possesses the professional and
technical personnel required to perform the services required by this
Agreement, and that it will perform all services in a manner
commensurate with community professional standards. All services shall
be performed by qualified and experienced personnel who are not
employed by City, nor have any contractual relationship with City.
8.2 Consultant represents and warrants to City that it has or shall obtain all
licenses, permits, qualifications, insurance and approvals of whatsoever
nature that are legally required of Consultant to practice its profession.
Consultant further represents and warrants to City that Consultant shall, at
its sole cost and expense, keep in effect or obtain at all times during the
term of this Agreement, any and all licenses, permits, insurance and other
approvals that are legally required of Consultant to practice its profession.
Consultant shall maintain a City of Newport Beach business license
during the term of this Agreement.
8.3 Consultant shall not be responsible for delay, nor shall Consultant be
responsible for damages or be in default or deemed to be in default by
reason of strikes, lockouts, accidents, or acts of God, or the failure of City
to furnish timely information or to approve or disapprove Consultant's
work promptly, or delay or faulty performance by City, contractors, or
governmental agencies.
9. HOLD HARMLESS
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Consultant shall indemnify, defend and
hold harmless City, its City Council, boards and commissions, officers, agents
and employees (collectively, the "Indemnified Parties ") from and against any and
all claims (including, without limitation, claims for bodily injury, death or damage
to property), demands, obligations, damages, actions, causes of action, suits,
losses, judgments, fines, penalties, liabilities, costs and expenses (including,
without limitation, attorney's fees, disbursements and court costs) of every kind
and nature whatsoever (individually, a Claim; collectively, "Claims "), which may
arise from or in any manner relate (directly or indirectly) to any work performed or
services provided under this Agreement (including, without limitation, defects in
workmanship or materials and /or design defects [if the design originated with
Consultant]) or Consultant's presence or activities conducted on the Project
(including the negligent and /or willful acts, errors and /or omissions of Consultant,
its principals, officers, agents, employees, vendors, suppliers, consultants,
subcontractors, anyone employed directly or indirectly by any of them or for
whose acts they may be liable or any or all of them).
Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall be construed to require
Consultant to indemnify the Indemnified Parties from any Claim arising from the
sole negligence or willful misconduct of the Indemnified Parties. Nothing in this
indemnity shall be construed as authorizing any award of attorney's fees in any
action on or to enforce the terms of this Agreement. This indemnity shall apply
to all claims and liability regardless of whether any insurance policies are
applicable. The policy limits do not act as a limitation upon the amount of
indemnification to be provided by the Consultant.
10. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
It is understood that City retains Consultant on an independent contractor basis
and Consultant is not an agent or employee of City. The manner and means of
conducting the work are under the control of Consultant, except to the extent
they are limited by statute, rule or regulation and the expressed terms of this
Agreement. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed to constitute approval
for Consultant or any of Consultant's employees or agents, to be the agents or
employees of City. Consultant shall have the responsibility for and control over
the means of performing the work, provided that Consultant is in compliance with
the terms of this Agreement. Anything in this Agreement that may appear to give
City the right to direct Consultant as to the details of the performance or to
exercise a measure of control over Consultant shall mean only that Consultant
shall follow the desires of City with respect to the results of the services.
11. COOPERATION
Consultant agrees to work closely and cooperate fully with City's designated
Project Administrator and any other agencies that may have jurisdiction or
interest in the work to be performed. City agrees to cooperate with the
Consultant on the Project.
12. CITY POLICY
Consultant shall discuss and review all matters relating to policy and Project
direction with City's Project Administrator in advance of all critical decision points
in order to ensure the Project proceeds in a manner consistent with City goals
and policies.
13. PROGRESS
Consultant is responsible for keeping the Project Administrator and /or his /her
duly authorized designee informed on a regular basis regarding the status and
progress of the Project, activities performed and planned, and any meetings that
have been scheduled or are desired.
14. INSURANCE
Without limiting Consultant's indemnification of City, and prior to commencement
of work Consultant shall obtain, provide and maintain at its own expense during
the term of this Agreement, a policy or policies of liability insurance of the type
and amounts described below and in a form satisfactory to City.
A. Certificates of Insurance, Consultant shall provide certificates of
insurance with original endorsements to City as evidence of the insurance
coverage required herein. Insurance certificates must be approved by
City's Risk Manager prior to commencement of performance or issuance
of any permit. Current certification of insurance shall be kept on file with
City's at all times during the term of this Agreement.
B. Signature. A person authorized by the insurer to bind coverage on its
behalf shall sign certification of all required policies.
C. Acceptable Insurers. All insurance policies shall be issued by an
insurance company currently authorized by the Insurance Commissioner
to transact business of insurance in the State of California, with an
assigned policyholders' Rating of A (or higher) and Financial Size
Category Class VII (or larger) in accordance with the latest edition of
Best's Key Rating Guide, unless otherwise approved by the City's Risk
Manager.
D. Coverage Requirements.
Workers' Compensation Coveraqe. Consultant shall maintain
Workers' Compensation Insurance and Employer's Liability
Insurance for his or her employees in accordance with the laws of
the State of California. In addition, Consultant shall require each
subcontractor to similarly maintain Workers' Compensation
Insurance and Employer's Liability Insurance in accordance with
the laws of the State of California for all of the subcontractor's
employees. Any notice of cancellation or non - renewal of all
Workers' Compensation policies must be received by City at least
thirty (30) calendar days prior to such change (10 day written notice
for nonpayment of premium). The insurer shall agree to waive all
rights of subrogation against City, its officers, agents, employees
and volunteers for losses arising from work performed by
Consultant for City.
ii. General Liability Coverage. Consultant shall maintain commercial
general liability insurance in an amount not less than one million
dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence for bodily injury, personal
injury, and property damage, including without limitation,
contractual liability. If commercial general liability insurance or
other form with a general aggregate limit is used, either the general
aggregate limit shall apply separately to the work to be performed
under this Agreement, or the general aggregate limit shall be at
least twice the required occurrence limit.
i. _Automobile Liability Coverage. Consultant shall maintain
automobile insurance covering bodily injury and property damage
Cy
for all activities of the Consultant arising out of or in connection with
work to be performed under this Agreement, including coverage for
any owned, hired, non -owned or rented vehicles, in an amount not
less than one million dollars ($1,000,000) combined single limit for
each occurrence.
iv. Professional Errors and Omissions Insurance. Consultant shall
maintain professional errors and omissions insurance, which
covers the services to be performed in connection with this
Agreement in the minimum amount of one million dollars
($1,000,000).
E. Endorsements. Each general liability and automobile liability insurance
policy shall be endorsed with the following specific language:
i. The City, its elected or appointed officers, officials, employees,
agents and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds with
respect to liability arising out of work performed by or on behalf of
the Consultant.
ii. This policy shall be considered primary insurance as respects to
City, its elected or appointed officers, officials, employees, agents
and volunteers as respects to all claims, losses, or liability arising
directly or indirectly from the Consultant's operations or services
provided to City. Any insurance maintained by City, including any
self- insured retention City may have, shall be considered excess
insurance only and not contributory with the insurance provided
hereunder.
iii. This insurance shall act for each insured and additional insured as
though a separate policy had been written for each, except with
respect to the limits of liability of the insuring company.
V. The insurer waives all rights of subrogation against City, its elected
or appointed officers, officials, employees, agents and volunteers.
V. Any failure to comply with reporting provisions of the policies shall
not affect coverage provided to City, its elected or appointed
officers, officials, employees, agents or volunteers.
vi. The insurance provided by this policy shall not be suspended,
voided, canceled, or reduced in coverage or in limits, by either
party except after thirty (30) calendar days written notice has been
received by City (10 day written notice for nonpayment of
premium).
F. Timely Notice of Claims. Consultant shall give City prompt and timely
notice of claim made or suit instituted arising out of or resulting from
Consultant's performance under this Agreement.
7
G. Additional Insurance. Consultant shall also procure and maintain, at its
own cost and expense, any additional kinds of insurance, which in its own
judgment may be necessary for its proper protection and prosecution of
the work.
15. PROHIBITION AGAINST ASSIGNMENTS AND TRANSFERS
Except as specifically authorized under this Agreement, the services to be
provided under this Agreement shall not be assigned, transferred contracted or
subcontracted out without the prior written approval of City. Any of the following
shall be construed as an assignment: The sale, assignment, transfer or other
disposition of any of the issued and outstanding capital stock of Consultant, or of
the interest of any general partner or joint venturer or syndicate member or
cotenant if Consultant is a partnership or joint- venture or syndicate or cotenancy,
which shall result in changing the control of Consultant. Control means fifty
percent (50 %) or more of the voting power, or twenty -five percent (25 %) or more
of the assets of the corporation, partnership or joint- venture.
16. SUBCONTRACTING
City and Consultant agree that subconsultants may be used to complete the
work outlined in the Scope of Services. The subconsultants authorized by City to
perform work on this Project are identified in Exhibit A. Consultant shall be fully
responsible to City for all acts and omissions of the subcontractor. Nothing in
this Agreement shall create any contractual relationship between City and
subcontractor nor shall it create any obligation on the part of City to pay or to see
to the payment of any monies due to any such subcontractor other than as
otherwise required by law. Except as specifically authorized herein, the services
to be provided under this Agreement shall not be otherwise assigned,
transferred, contracted or subcontracted out without the prior written approval of
City.
17. OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS
Each and every report, draft, map, record, plan, document and other writing
produced (hereinafter "Documents "), prepared or caused to be prepared by
Consultant, its officers, employees, agents and subcontractors, in the course of
implementing this Agreement, shall become the exclusive property of City, and
City shall have the sole right to use such materials in its discretion without further
compensation to Consultant or any other party. Consultant shall, at Consultant's
expense, provide such Documents to City upon prior written request.
Documents, including drawings and specifications, prepared by Consultant
pursuant to this Agreement are not intended or represented to be suitable for
reuse by City or others on any other project. Any use of completed Documents
for other projects and any use of incomplete Documents without specific written
authorization from Consultant will be at City's sole risk and without liability to
Consultant. Further, any and all liability arising out of changes made to
Consultant's deliverables under this Agreement by City or persons other than
9
Consultant is waived against Consultant and City assumes full responsibility for
such changes unless City has given Consultant prior notice and has received
from Consultant written consent for such changes.
18. COMPUTER DELIVERABLES
All written documents shall be transmitted to City in the City's latest adopted
version of Microsoft Word and Excel.
19. CONFIDENTIALITY
All Documents, including drafts, preliminary drawings or plans, notes and
communications that result from the services in this Agreement, shall be kept
confidential unless City authorizes in writing the release of information.
20. OPINION OF COST
Any opinion of the construction cost prepared by Consultant represents his /her
judgment as a design professional and is supplied for the general guidance of
City. Since Consultant has no control over the cost of labor and material, or over
competitive bidding or market conditions, Consultant does not guarantee the
accuracy of such opinions as compared to contractor bids or actual cost to City.
21. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY INDEMNITY
The Consultant shall defend and indemnify City, its agents, officers,
representatives and employees against any and all liability, including costs, for
infringement of any United States' letters patent, trademark, or copyright
infringement, including costs, contained in Consultant's drawings and
specifications provided under this Agreement.
22. RECORDS
Consultant shall keep records and invoices in connection with the work to be
performed under this Agreement. Consultant shall maintain complete and
accurate records with respect to the costs incurred under this Agreement and
any services, expenditures and disbursements charged to City, for a minimum
period of three (3) years, or for any longer period required by law, from the date
of final payment to Consultant under this Agreement. All such records and
invoices shall be clearly identifiable. Consultant shall allow a representative of
City to examine, audit and make transcripts or copies of such records and
invoices during regular business hours. Consultant shall allow inspection of all
work, data, Documents, proceedings and activities related to the Agreement for a
period of three (3) years from the date of final payment to Consultant under this
Agreement.
9
23. WITHHOLDINGS
City may withhold payment to Consultant of any disputed sums until satisfaction
of the dispute with respect to such payment. Such withholding shall not be
deemed to constitute a failure to pay according to the terms of this Agreement.
Consultant shall not discontinue work as a result of such withholding. Consultant
shall have an immediate right to appeal to the City Manager or his /her designee
with respect to such disputed sums. Consultant shall be entitled to receive
interest on any withheld sums at the rate of return that City earned on its
investments during the time period, from the date of withholding of any amounts
found to have been improperly withheld.
24. ERRORS AND OMISSIONS
In the event of errors or omissions that are due to the negligence or professional
inexperience of Consultant which result in expense to City greater than what
would have resulted if there were not errors or omissions in the work
accomplished by Consultant, the additional design, construction and /or
restoration expense shall be borne by Consultant. Nothing in this paragraph is
intended to limit City's rights under any other sections of this Agreement.
25. CITY'S RIGHT TO EMPLOY OTHER CONSULTANTS
City reserves the right to employ other Consultants in connection with the
Project.
26. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The Consultant or its employees may be subject to the provisions of the
California Political Reform Act of 1974 (the "Act "), which (1) requires such
persons to disclose any financial interest that may foreseeably be materially
affected by the work performed under this Agreement, and (2) prohibits such
persons from making, or participating in making, decisions that will foreseeably
financially affect such interest.
If subject to the Act, Consultant shall conform to all requirements of the Act.
Failure to do so constitutes a material breach and is grounds for immediate
termination of this Agreement by City. Consultant shall indemnify and hold
harmless City for any and all claims for damages resulting from Consultant's
violation of this Section.
27. NOTICES
All notices, demands, requests or approvals to be given under the terms of this
Agreement shall be given in writing, to City by Consultant and conclusively shall
be deemed served when delivered personally, or on the third business day after
the deposit thereof in the United States mail, postage prepaid, first -class mail,
addressed as hereinafter provided. All notices, demands, requests or approvals
from Consultant to City shall be addressed to City at:
10
Attn: Robert Stein
Public Works Department
City of Newport Beach
3300 Newport Boulevard
Newport Beach, CA, 92663
Phone: 949 - 644 -3322
Fax: 949 - 644 -3308
All notices, demands, requests or approvals from CITY to Consultant shall be
addressed to Consultant at:
Attention: Mr. Brian Holzworth
Merrick & Company
5755 Mark Dabling Boulevard, Suite 350
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Phone: 800 - 544 -1714, 719 - 260 -8874
Fax: 719 - 260 -6098
28. TERMINATION
In the event that either party fails or refuses to perform any of the provisions of
this Agreement at the time and in the manner required, that party shall be
deemed in default in the performance of this Agreement. If such default is not
cured within a period of two (2) calendar days, or if more than two (2) calendar
days are reasonably required to cure the default and the defaulting party fails to
give adequate assurance of due performance within two (2) calendar days after
receipt of written notice of default, specifying the nature of such default and the
steps necessary to cure such default, the non - defaulting party may terminate the
Agreement forthwith by giving to the defaulting party written notice thereof.
Notwithstanding the above provisions, City shall have the right, at its sole
discretion and without cause, of terminating this Agreement at any time by giving
seven (7) calendar days prior written notice to Consultant. In the event of
termination under this Section, City shall pay Consultant for services
satisfactorily performed and costs incurred up to the effective date of termination
for which Consultant has not been previously paid. On the effective date of
termination, Consultant shall deliver to City all reports, Documents and other
information developed or accumulated in the performance of this Agreement,
whether in draft or final form.
29. COMPLIANCE WITH ALL LAWS
Consultant shall at its own cost and expense comply with all statutes,
ordinances, regulations and requirements of all governmental entities, including
federal, state, county or municipal, whether now in force or hereinafter enacted.
In addition, all work prepared by Consultant shall conform to applicable City,
11
county, state and federal laws, rules, regulations and permit requirements and be
subject to approval of the Project Administrator and City.
30. WAIVER
A waiver by either party of any breach, of any term, covenant or condition
contained herein shall not be deemed to be a waiver of any subsequent breach
of the same or any other term, covenant or condition contained herein, whether
of the same or a different character.
31. INTEGRATED CONTRACT
This Agreement represents the full and complete understanding of every kind or
nature whatsoever between the parties hereto, and all preliminary negotiations
and agreements of whatsoever kind or nature are merged herein. No verbal
agreement or implied covenant shall be held to vary the provisions herein.
32. CONFLICTS OR INCONSISTENCIES
In the event there are any conflicts or inconsistencies between this Agreement
and the Scope of Services or any other attachments attached hereto, the terms
of this Agreement shall govern.
33. AMENDMENTS
This Agreement may be modified or amended only by a written document
executed by both Consultant and City and approved as to form by the City
Attorney.
34. SEVERABILITY
If any term or portion of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal, or otherwise
unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions of
this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.
35. CONTROLLING LAW AND VENUE
The laws of the State of California shall govern this Agreement and all matters
relating to it and any action brought relating to this Agreement shall be
adjudicated in a court of competent jurisdiction in the County of Orange.
36. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
Consultant represents that it is an equal opportunity employer and it shall not
discriminate against any subcontractor, employee or applicant for employment
because of race, religion, color, national origin, handicap, ancestry, sex or age.
[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]
12
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed on
the day and year first written above.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
By:
Aaron C. Harp
Assistant City Attorney
ATTEST:
No
LaVonne Harkless,
City Clerk
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH,
A Municipal Corporation
Mayor
for the City of Newport Beach
MERRICK & COMPANY:
By:_
Title:
(Corporate Officer)
Print Name:
By:
(Financial Officer)
Title:
I=00IF1iiLa1
Attachments: Exhibit A — Scope of Services
F :IUSERSIPBW1SharedWgreements\FY 05- 061Merrick- Aerial Photos.doc
13
Exhibit A
oio MERRICK°
000 BUILOINQ QUALITY 5OLUTIONS
Merrick. S Company
5755 Mark Dabling Blvd. Sude 350
Colorado Springs, CO 60919 -2247
Phone 719- 260 - 8874 /Fax 719 - 260 -6098
,,. memck cam
November 14, 2005
Rod Murphy
GIS Coordinator
Administrative Services
City of Newport Beach
3300 Newport Beach, CA 92663
RE: City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contour Proposal
Dear Mr. Murphy;
Merrick & Company (Merrick) is an employee- owned, multidiscipline engineering firm ranked 175 in
Engineering News Record's "Top 500 Engineering Firms" We have been headquartered in Aurora,
Colorado since 1955 and have offices in Colorado Springs, Los Alamos, Albuquerque, Guadalajara
Mexico, and Duluth (Atlanta). Merrick is an organization of approximately 400 professionals, with over
80 employees in the Geo- Spatial Solutions team providing internationally recognized precision land
based solutions.
As you are aware, Merrick is offering the City of Newport Beach professional geo spatial services as
an extension of the services competitively competed contract awarded to the VARGIS / Merrick &
Company team in LA County. As such this VARGIS / Merrick proposal offers an opportunity to
significantly decrease the cost of services (— $35,000 in savings — see cost proposal), reduce start-up
time, and reduce City of Newport staff time in the creation /review of proposals as a result of an RFP
process. Additionally, Merrick, having previously provided digital imagery and contour services to
Newport Beach, is aware of those issues within the project that are unique to Newport and thus
uniquely qualified to continue providing precision geo database services to the City of Newport Beach.
We appreciate the opportunity to again provide services to the City of Newport Beach and look
forward to another successful project. Should you have any questions or require additional
information, please feel free to contact me. In order to take advantage of the LA Contract, the
VARGIS / Merrick Team needs to receive a notice to proceed by December 14, 2005. Please
consider this proposal valid until said time.
Sincerely,
Merrick &Company
' �_". "�
Torin Haskell
Senior Account Manager
Merrick & Company
5755 Mark Cabling Blvd., Suite 350
Colorado Springs. CO 80919
800 -544 -1714
Torin.haskell @merrick.com
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contour
The proposed lump sum includes the services /deliverables outlined, including those costs
associated with:
Aerial Imagery
LIDAR
Ground Control
FDAAT
Digital Ortho Rectification
True Ortho Rectification in Identified Areas
Breakline Collection
Final surface to Support 2' Contour (DTM)
2' Contour
Wall Mosaic (digital version — 2' pixel)
Total proposed fee: $148,566.00*
* Fee recognizes the following cost savings resulting form utilizing the Los
Angeles County competitive selection (Digital Aerial Imagery Data And
Services For The Los Angeles Region Imagery Acquisition Consortium —
LAR -IAC):
LIDAR sensor (ALS50) - proximity savings $17,119
Digital sensor-(DMC) - .proximity savings $18.000
Total savings $35,119
Notice to proceed must be received by the VARGIS / Merrick team no later
than December 14, 2005 to realize proximity savings.
011-1 Proposal to Provide
City —Wide Aerial Photos and Contour
City of Newport Beach
City of Newport Beach Proposed Schedule
Mapping Task
Start
Finish
1.
Notice to proceed
12/14/05
2.
Aerial Photography Acquisition
12/15/05
1/20/06
J.
LiDAR Acquisition
12/15/05
1/20/06
4.
Photo ID Control
1/23/06
2/17/06
5.
LiDAR Filter, Edit,
1/23/06
3/10/06
6.
Fully Digital Analytical Digital Aerotriangulation (FDA-AT)
2/20/06
3/17/06
7.
Deliver Prototype Project ( -4 tiles all products)
3/31/06
8.
City of NPB Prototype Review
4/3/06
4/14/06
9.
Breakline Compilation
3/20/06
4/28/06
10.
Contour Generation, QC, Edit
5/1/06
5/26/06
11.
Digital Othophotography Rectification & Processing
3/13/06
5/26/06
12.
Final Contour Formatting
5/29/06
6/23/06
13.
City of NPB Ortho & Contour Review and Acceptance
5/29/06
7/21/06
14.
Project Close -out
7/25/06
November 14, 2005
C:"a*ehnq%Newp n%Te miWlg prq' .00
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
Citv of Newport Beach
The following outline provides a description of the significant
procedures /milestones that will occur throughout the project.
I. A project kick -off meeting will be held between The City of Newport
Beach (Newport) and the MerrickfVargis team (Merrick) to review all
technical and administrative aspects of the project. We recommend that
the format of this meeting be a "hands -on" workshop environment to
facilitate the exchange of quality information. To assist Newport, Merrick
will present data from a similar GIS project.
2. Prior to the kick -off meeting, Newport will be provided an agenda for the
meeting. The specific topics to be addressed include:
• Review the proposed flight and ground control scheme and modify as
necessary to meet project requirements
• Brief Newport on LIDAR implementation issues such as flight plan,
safety, accuracy, etc.
• Discuss /review tiling requirements
• Review accuracy requirements
• Review project control datums and units
• Review Merrick's QA/QC procedures
• Define the location of the prototype area
• Determine acceptance criteria for all deliverable products
• Identify points of contact and develop communication protocol
• Develop Project Status Report requirements
• Review invoicing procedures
3. Following the kick -off meeting, a detailed memorandum will be forwarded
to the Newport project manager to clarify and document the decisions and
discussion items of the kick -off meeting.
Following the technical section, there are also additional sections that outline
Merrick's specific quality control procedures, project management philosophy,
project deliverables, and client - provided products for this project.
I. In order to prepare the initial start-up documentation, all of the items
discussed during the kick -off meeting will be resolved.
2. Merrick's project manager will develop internal, project - specific
documentation as a reference for the production staff. This Project
Summary outlines the scope of work, project specifications, deliverables,
project schedule, technical procedures, and the quality assurance plan.
3. A kick -off meeting with Merrick's project manager and key production
staff is held to review all aspects of the project.
4. Merrick prepares its production facility for the project. The primary tasks
that are integrated in preparation of beginning the project are:
• Scheduling of resources (equipment and personnel)
• Customizing in -house software tools, as necessary
MERRICK°
@UILOING QUALITY OOLUTIONS
November 14, 2005
C. \maM1elrng \Newpo� \Ted�mwl All. doc
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
Citv of Newport Beach
■ Customizing QC checklists for each department specific to this project
5. A project of this magnitude requires a start-up period of approximately
three weeks. Once the information is gathered and/or tested, the team is
ready to begin the next step of the project.
,SURVEY NEw GROUND CONTROL
Merrick will establish 32 control points throughout the project area. These
ground control points, in conjunction with Airborne GPS control, will support
the accuracy requirements of the project. Merrick understands that the
accuracy standards to be used for this project are National Map Accuracy
Standards (LAMAS), as it pertains to 1 " =] 00' scale mapping.
Merrick proposes to target and survey all new ground control points. The
intent of this new control is for the support of this project only, and permanent
monumentation is not being proposed. All new monuments will be temporary
(i.e., PK nail or rebar and cap.)
Merrick proposes the use of conventional ground Global Positioning System
(GPS) techniques to establish the primary control locations. Static, Rapid
Static, and Kinematic GPS techniques shall be incorporated for the points
required to complete the mapping.
1. Johnson Frank and Associates (Johnson Frank) will provide the ground
surveying services. With significant surveying experience in various
locations throughout the region, Johnson Frank will provide the local
surveying knowledge necessary to support the high accuracy requirements
for the project.
2. Johnson Frank's survey team shall provide the horizontal and vertical
control points required for this mapping project using their Trimble
surveying equipment.
3. The horizontal accuracy shall be Second Order, Class 11, GPS or better.
The vertical accuracy will meet Third Order specifications.
4. All horizontal control will be referenced to the California State Plane
Coordinate System (SPCS), Zone 6, North American Datum of 1983
(NAD 83). Final coordinates will be provided in US Survey Feet. The
project vertical control datum will be based on the North American
Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 88). The project vertical control network
will include a review of existing NGS monuments within the region. All
new control points will be referenced to the NGS network.
5. A minimum of three receivers, observing simultaneously, will be used in a
"leap frog" approach to GPS observations. Repeat baseline measurements
will amount to approximately 20% with about equal numbers in the north -
south and east -west directions.
6. All antenna heights will be measured in both meters and feet to guarantee
and verify an accurate receiver setup. Reviewing processed raw data and
running loop closure checks will check survey data collected daily from
the field by receivers.
7. Loop closure tests of GPS observations will be performed to validate the
integrity of the data. Closures on the GPS network show the resulting
MERRICK°
OUILOINO QUALITY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
precision ratio in parts per million (PPM). Results are shown for each day
of observations and for the entire project. Coordinates are referenced to
latitude and longitude, while height is an ellipsoid value. The total
distance traveled along the traverse is displayed together with the accuracy
in PPM. In addition, the misclosure by the difference in X, Y, and Z
Cartesian coordinates (dx, dy, dz) is shown. Loop closures are done
before any adjustment and before any constrainment of the GPS network.
The latitude and longitude coordinates and ellipsoid heights from loop
closures are not to be used as final coordinates.
8. An error ellipse is used to show each point's expected horizontal coordinate
standard error. The scale of the plots is shown by the bar ticks running
through the ellipses and by the tag at the bottom of the page of the display
indicating the bar scale tick value. The scale is the some for all pages of the
displayed ellipses. The point name is shown at the lower left of each ellipse
and the angle (measured counter - clockwise from the positive east bar scale)
made by the major ellipse axis is shown at the lower right. The sigma scalar
shows the ellipses in the 95% confidence region.
9. The flight line /control diagram for the Newport project has been provided
in the Appendix section of this proposal. This diagram indicates the
general location for our proposed control/panels.
10. Johnson Frank will generate the "Ground Control Report," which
documents the results of the GPS survey. This report will be a
comprehensive narrative of all aspects of the UPS data collection process.
CONTROL PANELING
I . Prior to the aerial photography mission, Johnson Frank will panel the
photo control points so they will be visible on the aerial photography.
Merrick will coordinate the targeting and aerial photography tasks to
ensure that the targeting is complete before beginning the photography
mission.
2. When possible, Johnson Frank will use white paint to mark the location of
each control point. White vinyl material (3 -ply thick) will be utilized for
all those points that cannot be painted.
3. The shape of each panel will be either a "Y" or "X." The length of each
panel leg will be 6 feet in length and 16 inches wide.
4. All vinyl targets will be inspected before the acquisition of photography to
validate proper positioning and condition.
5. All vinyl panel material will be removed upon completion and acceptance
of the aerial photography.
ACQUIRE DIGITAL AERIAL IMAGERY
1. Merrick will use 3001 California to perform the imaging mission. 3001's
aircraft is equipped with GPS navigation and an on -board receiver to
accomplish the sensor positioning for the aerotriangulation.
2. 3001 will provide a Zeiss DMC digital mapping sensor/cameras for this
project. .
November gNe4 005 ❑❑i❑❑ MERRICK°
C: \madetinglNewporl \TecM1nilal ApproacM1.CO<
❑ ❑❑ OUILOINO OUALITV •OLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 4
3. The aerial imagery will conform to industry standards established by the
American Society for Photogranametry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).
The following parameters apply for the aerial photography for this project:
-57 Square Mile Flight Area
Sensor T ype
Color— Zeiss DMC
Forward Lap
60%
Side Lap
30%
Number of AGPS Eposures
1,177
Supporting ixel size
0.25'
True Ortho Flight Area (6 identified
areas, —1.5 square miles)
Forward Lap
Side Lg
.�
4. The aerial photography shall be flown on, or near, the agreed date by
Merrick and the Newport project manager, weather permitting. Merrick
anticipates that the aerial photography phase will be initiated in late
December 2005 to early January, 2006.
5. Once the imagery has been inspected, Merrick shall provide samples of
several areas of the project for viewing on Newport workstations. The
samples will simulate the final pixel resolution. They will be used to form
a consensus on the ortho quality that will be generated.
'AIRBORNE GPS (AGPS)
Airborne GPS (AGPS) technology provides supplemental control as input to
the aerotriangulation adjustment. During the photography mission, GPS data
are collected in the aircraft at timed intervals. Ground receivers also collect
GPS data during the photo mission. Using sophisticated post - processing
software completing differential calculations, the air station coordinates can be
derived for each photograph and the instant of exposure. These air station
coordinates are subsequently transformed to ground "control," relative to the
proper horizontal and vertical datum, during the aerotriangulation process.
Airborne GPS offers the following advantages:
• Sipnificantly Reduced Ground Control Requirements
• Time Savings — with reduced ground control requirements and ability to
rapidly acquire project control through AGPS, the overall project schedule
can be reduced.
• Reduced Problems with Accessibility — AGPS offers some flexibility in
the placement of ground points. Control points normally required for
conventional mapping projects in remote areas may not be necessary or
may be moved with AGPS- assisted surveys.
• Additional Control — since AGPS control (subsequently transformed to
ground control) is acquired for each exposure, the number of actual control
stations is densified by comparison to "classical" photogrammetric control
configurations.
November14,2%Te oi❑❑ MERRICK°
November 14, 2005 mwl MOroachEn.
❑ ❑❑ NUILOINO OUYLIT♦ SMU10N0
Proposal to Provide
COU City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 5
The following outlines Merrick's procedures for obtaining and processing
AGPS data:
Mission Planning
I. Mission planning is a critical aspect of the AGPS phase. The resulting
accuracy of AGPS is highly dependent on appropriate satellite
configurations. Proper mission planning defines the number and position
of the satellites, by time, on the day of the aerial photography flight.
2. A minimum of five (5) observable satellites (and preferably 6 to 9
satellites) combined with a low Positional Dilution of Precision (PDOP)
will achieve the desired results. Certain segments of time during the flight
may have too few satellites or poor PDOP conditions. During these
segments of time the aircraft can stay aloft and can complete
reconnaissance, but cannot acquire photography. When the number of
satellites increases and the PDOP achieves acceptable levels, the aerial
photography can resume.
3. AFS plans to use a minimum of two (2) GPS base stations during the
photography mission. Support by at least two (2) ground base stations is
the best way to ensure redundancy in differential calculations. Airborne
base stations are GPS receivers on the ground, collecting data
simultaneously with the flight. The data collected ties the AGPS to the
ground control at the post - processing stage. Airborne base station locations
must be in a totally open area with a clear view of the sky with no
obstructions to block out any satellites.
I. Proper coordination between the ground and aircraft crews will dictate the
efficiency of the AGPS mission. Crews arrive at the project site early each
day, well before the flying window begins. Equipment is tested, flight
plans are reviewed, and the aircraft is aloft and ready to begin capturing
photography as soon as the sun angle window permits. Ground and air
crews maintain constant communication throughout the flight. In the
event that a technical problem occurs or the window closes due to cloud
cover the mission can be quickly shut down to avoid cost overruns.
2. Merrick utilizes on- the -fly (OTF) techniques to initialize the AGPS
mission. OTF initialization requires that the base station antennae be
within 12 miles of the airplane antennae. Once the initialization is
successful, it is possible to fly at least 25 miles from the base stations
provided both receivers do not suffer loss of lock. The advantage to on-
the -fly initialization is that we can recover from a loss of lock since the
OTF software will automatically re- initialize, provided the aircraft is again
within about 12 miles of the base station.
3. AFS has flown numerous AGPS projects and is aware of the constraints
involved when flying AGPS missions. Since it is important to maintain
lock on the satellites during the AGPS flights, steep banks and shallow
turns are avoided.
4. Photography and AGPS data is collected until the photography window
closes for the day or until inclement weather impedes the flight.
November 14, 2005
C \msAebnglNewporllTednlol ApprmU dw ❑ ❑❑ '0S MERRICK
❑❑❑ SUILOING QUALITY ROLUTONe
Proposal to Provide
011 &2 City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 6
Post-Processing I
I. Using GPS processing techniques, we have the ability to determine
coordinates for an instantaneous event such as the opening of a camera
shutter.
2. AGPS processing is done on a daily basis so that any problems can be
corrected before leaving the project site.
3. Trimble GPSurvey version 2.35 software and Trimble Geomatics Office
version 1.50 software is used to process the AGPS data. The data are
processed using continuous kinematic processing methods. Continuous
kinematic surveys provide the ability to map the paths of moving vehicles
such as airplanes.
4. Continuous kinematic baseline processing can solve GPS antenna
positions, not only when the antenna is stationary but also for each GPS
observation made while the aircraft is moving. Continuous kinematic
processing provides a position at every epoch (typically I second). The
baseline processor uses an epoch on either side of the event together with
an interpolation strategy to determine the position of the photograph at the
instant in time that a photograph is taken.
5. The final AGPS coordinates will be consistent with the horizontal and
vertical datum for this project. These final coordinates will be
incorporated into the overall project control network and used to support
the aerotriangulation adjustment.
6. Merrick will generate an "Airborne GPS Report" which documents the
results of the GPS survey in Excel spreadsheet format.
LIGHT DETEcTioN AND RAi4GING (LIDAR)
LIDAR has revolutionized the acquisition of
digital elevation data for large scale mapping
applications. Merrick has embraced this
technology from the onset through associations
with several LIDAR acquisition vendors. Since
1997, we have successfully used LIDAR data as
input to the contouring and digital ortho processes.
We now operate our own proprietary digital
imaging / LIDAR system and processes.
2. A typical LIDAR system rapidly transmits pulses of light that reflect off the
terrain and other height objects. The return pulse is converted from photons
to electrical impulses and collected by a high -speed data recorder. Since the
formula for the speed of light is well known, time intervals from transmission
to collection are easily derived. Time intervals are then converted to distance
based on positional information obtained from ground/aircraft GPS receivers
and the on -board Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that constantly records
the attitude (pitch, roll, and heading) of the aircraft.
3. LIDAR systems collect positional (x,y) and elevation (z) data at pre - defined
intervals. The resulting LIDAR data is a very dense network of elevation
postings. The accuracy of LIDAR data is a function of flying height, laser
beam diameter (system dependent), the quality of the GPS /IMU data, and
November 14, 2005
maf."9,NQw01%T.am�lAppr a.d� ❑e❑ MERRICK$
❑ ❑❑ auuamo aunury eownonO
f;l'� Proposal to Provide
City —Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 7
Lelca/Helava Systems ALS40 150
post - processing procedures. Accuracies of t15em (horizontally) and t15cm
(vertically) can be achieved. Accuracies better than 7cm (vertically) were
achieved from initial testing of Merrick's system.
I. Merrick operates an airborne laser topographic mapping system based on
the Leica/14elava Systems ALS40 /50 platform. The system integrates a
laser Altimeter, an Applanix POS /AV1MU Inertial Measurement Unit
(1MU), GPS flight management and other sub - systems. This integrated
system is capable of 58 KHz operation at a 75° Field of View (FOV). The
system configuration includes extended altitude range up to 4,700m @75 °,
target signal intensity capture, and three return capture. The sensor is
capable of generating five returns, however, the first three returns generate
the maximum collection, and Merrick's sensor has been configured to
maximize these first three returns. This advanced sensor has the capability
to collect terrain data at a swath width of over two miles. The accuracy of
laser generated terrain data exceeds 15em RMSE, altitude dependent.
2. In -flight data are logged to hard drives, which provides for immediate
viewing of post mission data. Data quality, coverage, and other mission
critical information are reviewed immediately to determine if re- flights are
necessary. Basic parameters for Merrick's L1DAR system include:
LH Systems r D.
Operating Altitude
500 to 4,700 meters
Elevation Accuracy
<15cm RMSE Alt dependent)
Horizontal Accuracy
<15cm RMSE Alt dependent)
GPS Receiver
Novatel Millennium
Laser Repetition Rate
100 Hz to 50KHz
Scan Angle
5 - 75°
Swath Width
Variable
Scan Frequency
Variable scan an le dependent)
Return Pulse
Up to three (pulse rate de endent
Intensi
Yes (up to three
Similar to an aerial camera, it is generally not necessary to adjust
parameters of a system that has been properly calibrated. Most project
errors occur due to poor pre -flight initial calibration of the sensor and/or
post - processing errors. Typical error sources are a result of poor mission
planning or an untested set of variables. Calibration issues may include:
• Scanner Velocity — This can affect a condition known as encoder
windup, which requires specific algorithmic correction for non - linear
mechanical correction.
• GPS Lever Arms — if a new aircraft installation has been performed,
the relationship of the GPS antenna as it relates to IMU and laser must
be properly measured.
• Boresite Calibration — The relationship of the 1MU to the laser head
must be precisely measured at maximum operational altitudes. The
resulting angular offsets for pitch; roll, and yaw must then be applied
to the post - processor for proper projection of the data when translating
data from earth center to earth fixed coordinate systems.
November 14, 2005 111313 D
C:lmaAebng%New O&Tec npc lAPPm O.Coc 13013 MERRICK
❑❑❑ SUILOINO OU.UTV SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 8
• Pulse Rate — Lasers pulse width and shape is a variable based upon
the pulse rate of the laser. While small in comparison to other error
sources, a small vertical bias (1 -5cm) is typical and should be
accounted for in the total calibration.
• Extended GPS Baselines - Kinematic GPS errors can be on the order
of 2ppm, which can translate to 20cm/100km. This must be accounted
for by limiting baseline length for projects demanding large -scale
mapping.
2. Full calibration/ verification of our LIDAR sensor is verified on a regular
basis (monthly) at Jefferson County Airport in Broomfield, Colorado,
Merrick's LIDAR Operations facility. The site has over 500 GPS
centimeter class accuracy control points, which include runways, taxiways,
buildings, rooftops, and other features. Points are both surface and photo
identifiable targets. In addition to GPS control, a rigorous
photogrammetric solution was obtained utilizing photography flown at a
scale 1 " =600', which is utilized for stereo surface validation and 6 -inch
orthophoto reference imagery.
Methodology Calibration
1. Flights are performed over the calibration site across the full dynamic
range for altitude; scan rate, and pulse rates from four cardinal directions
and encompassing the full swath width of the on- ground scan over the
GPS control surface data. Post - processed data is incorporated into
MARS® (see discussion on page 18) files where cross sectional profiles are
measured and analyzed for flight line coherence and flight line ground
truth coherence.
2. Additionally, an analysis is performed, which correlates the entire control
network to the LIDAR data for adherence to the project map specification.
Please note, our calibration procedures require that any project variables,
which deviate from the normal calibration results, be investigated and
resolved before final processing of data.
I . Calibration validation is also performed at the project location to assure
anomalies have not occurred en route to the site or during data collection.
Typically, a limited survey is performed at the local airport to ensure
mission performance. This often includes other control within the project
boundary, as determined by project specifications. On projects of this size,
flights are taken at the beginning and end of each mission over the
calibration area(s). This assures that no drift or systematic errors have
occurred during the LIDAR mission. Proper calibration also allows errors
to be evaluated and adjusted (if necessary) during post - processing and
projection of DEM surface data to the project control. Merrick cautions
against any other methodology as this is the only cohesive process that can
ensure a mission has no anomalies from mechanical, electronic, GPS, or
other atmospheric error sources.
2. On data that has been corrected for systematic errors, the project checkpoint
GPS control can be validated against the LIDAR surface. This verifies both
LIDAR data accuracy and the critical tie between project control and
November 14, 2005 FOR MERRICK°
November 14, 2lTed+mwi FpG��cJ�.6oc
❑❑❑ euu.mNU uunury nownowE
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 9
coordinate systems. MARS allows the user to specify the desired,
required, or target vertical accuracy in project units via a user friendly GUI
interface. During the calculation of control statistics, comparisons are made
to this value to see if the specified vertical accuracy is met.
Under the current method to validate the LIDAR accuracy (designated
"Elevation interpolated from TIN "), a TIN is created around each control
point, using LIDAR points within 100 units of horizontal distance. The one
triangle that horizontally covers the sample location is selected. The location
on the surface of this triangle that matches the sample locations then provides
the elevation. This elevation is a linear interpolation of the elevations of the
three triangle vertices, or more simply it is the point in 3D on the TIN
triangle directly above the sample location. The method complies with
FEMA requirements, as described in FEMA guidelines for LIDAR mapping,
specifically Appendix 4B to FEMA 37, May 2000. Using this method, the
user can be assured of data accuracy through out the project area. Literally
thousands of control points can be computed in seconds.
In the following example, the user has specified 0.6' as the vertical
accuracy (Accuracy), which will statistically test the dataset for meeting
NSSDA requirements for 1' contours (hence the 95% confidence level).
This reports the min, mean, max, and average "Z error" (elevation) for all
control vs. the LIDAR data within the project. You'll see that this
particular dataset passed the criteria with 98.6% at 0.50'. The "achievable'
contour interval represents the interval / accuracy specification (LAMAS /
ASPRS) possible after breakline enhancement.
6. This report is output in Excel spreadsheet format (.csv), which allows for
the user to analyze the results of the LIDAR accuracy.
November 14. 2005 0013 O
CAmaAelin g\Newp \Tednicl Approac.Eoc ❑e❑ MERRICK
❑❑❑ SUILOINQ QUALITY GOLUT1ONt
{ r
ai+h•
•N n ivw��/
03 Gwtl
'
�
01 �...ouu.em
wtir
r�Mrrl�eVW�rr M,��O�r
OS x�.Nr�
t�11•w
{ wNw jn
I.A»lzr+A:w..wr
ON
fri
L�.r.xw�vRVCVN
s4bJOnYnIT112b �,►
�6.3
II•
L�I�w�N 9BF%
IY,A /2r�rr
rQ3 ms
11yNAwvp
RJfMSXVMw�Ynlr
•/ NGtI
A,iWzf. 600
VN1a OO.xY��
R1NVMUArr
G� EASt �
. Mwunp�leYlz Fmx 000
.. Mss rr�r., n.r,l
i����
NedniE.v IIOi
MtQ�I�rrf•�•11rr1
r"-
w:a,.:..a�rtzc� IIa1
Aw.rrr�irr..i
ruli— I
�n
� r nx ce,. zac... zb.•o r.
r r.e.•
01 3p1W60B 1Yvi15953 Yc
RYf 9J 5L.'J Olf
CM11 yQ,�
[1y2 S91R9M tittB166S Tc
SII1® R 411
Cpl St
Fjl 100>A2n 11?)006II Y�.
X193t 8Hn 001
2A11 %N 2J9
g. Iz.>rrsz Ye.
s,'slm szbsao 0.10
sa, es szs,
M1121l&
[Jy 1N m IFiRS% Y.
R70X
es 4b
:1
81a ltfi 11 'n7
W7112 an
w mmz O
Mn s o: ®n '
W 11 v vei
1J
15
91@ 3x;we.: I1.c TR
13y WM 12
as
VMn Mn 051
Haan
V%92 M
ss.11 s�-1�
.
i,iRm m. IT0.4fN 1n.
ifilF,l Slf{N xJ�STK
"M
iV 511x11
6. This report is output in Excel spreadsheet format (.csv), which allows for
the user to analyze the results of the LIDAR accuracy.
November 14. 2005 0013 O
CAmaAelin g\Newp \Tednicl Approac.Eoc ❑e❑ MERRICK
❑❑❑ SUILOINQ QUALITY GOLUT1ONt
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 10
1. In order to truly validate multiple return data, a known set of target
coordinates must be measured against ground survey data. While a single
pulse has the ability to read 2 -5 ranges, as is the case on most commercial
LIDAR systems, the validity of this type of data has been minimally
investigated. Many systems purport that they provide multiple returns but
provide no accuracy claims. In truth, each return requires a separate
vertical calibration correction, since it is a separate timing circuit. This
can only be guaranteed if the signal strength is adequate from all returns.
Typical project morphology provides minimal multiple return data beyond
the 2nd return. Histogram analysis of data sets typically provides a
maximum of 100% for ISE returns, 25% maximum for 2 "d returns, 5%
maximum for 3rd returns, and little or no 4ih and 5i° return data. This is a
function of the ability of the electronic timing, and laser pulse width,
which relates directly to a term known as range separation.
2. Range Separation is defined as the minimum vertical target separation
required registering a valid return. Merrick's laser has <3 -meter range
separation and is the highest accuracy currently available. Older systems
vary from 6 -12 meters. For the user, this means that buildings that are less
than 6- meters high would probably not be resolved with older systems.
3. Validation of multiple retum data is a difficult task, at best, beyond 2 "d
return data under normal flight conditions, and is best measured in a
terrestrial environment under controlled conditions. However, most current
users have little commercial use beyond building height measurement and
true ground observations, which require I' and 2 "d return data. In the
dynamic flight environment, a building is generally surveyed and is used as
the control to verify the range(s). A laser shot must hit the edge of the
building and have enough energy to produce a 2 'd return on the ground.
Then the returns are verified against the GPS control.
1. Merrick uses several significant process steps to filter (classify) data for
project specified map accuracies ranging from l' to 5' contour intervals.
Each step takes the data to sufficient levels for the level of accuracy and
processing required. These steps may be modified based on project
requirements including but not limited to, map accuracy, terrain, and
canopy morphology (i.e. urban, heavy or multiple canopy vegetation,
water, and swamps).
2. Data is most often classified by ground and canopy, but specific project
applications can include classifications of multiple data types including but
not limited to buildings, vegetation, power lines, etc. This is a very labor -
intensive process and is generally not recommended on contour only
projects. Typical deliverables for contour datasets are generally limited to
include canopy and ground surface only.
3. In general practice, these workflow steps include:
• Step 1: Logical parsing of data by file size and morphology
• Step 2: Automated filtering
• Step 3: LIDAR environment editing
November14,2\Te ❑O❑ MERRICK°
Novernbe, 14, 20 ediniwl Approac✓t tloc
❑ ❑❑ BUILDING UUAUMY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City - Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 11
■ Step 4: Model keypoint generation.
Step 1: Logical Parsing of Data by File Size and Morphology
a. Before editing the LIDAR elevations, Merrick's filtering team parses
enormous raw LIDAR data files into manageable, client specified tiles
using Merrick's proprietary software. The software is called Merrick
Airborne Remote Sensing (MARS). MARS® comprises a modular suite
of tools that are used in the field, production workflow, and client
deliverables. Please refer to the section on MARS® for a more complete
description of capabilities. Data parsing is determined by geographic
location, morphology, and logical file size for workflow process
performance optimization.
b. Following is an example of a raw LIDAR high - density urban data set from
the Denver (CO) CBD before filtering. The image on the left is a point
cloud representation; on the right is a TIN model of the same area before
filtering.
Denver CBD point cloud representation before filtering
Cross section TIN
Denver CBD TIN model before filtering
Step 2: Automated Filtering
a. Next, custom filter macros are developed based on job
specifications, terrain, and vegetation characteristics.
These algorithms are applied to client data to derive a
database separated into different classification groups;
error points, ground points, and canopy - building points.
The macros are tested in several portions of the project
area to verify accuracy. Often, there are several filter
macros for each project that optimize the program based
on the unique characteristics of terrain, man made features,
and vegetation type. Automatic filtering generally yields a
ground surface that is >90% accurate, but requires
additional editing to produce surfaces sufficient for image
rectification and large -scale high accuracy contours (1 -2').
November 14, 2005 ❑❑❑
, a*ebn9,�e, DMMTe�n,�Appma�da 11011 MERRICK
❑❑❑ Suitowu uu4uTY nol.UnoNe
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 12
Step 3: LIDAR Environment Editing
a. LIDAR data is next taken into a graphic environnent to edit noise or
features that may remain in the LIDAR point cloud after auto - filter. Data
is cross - sectioned from the surface to reclassify non- ground data artifacts.
The cross section on the left is edited and the 11N to the right is updated
automatically to reflect change real -time during the editing process.
b. The following is an example of reclassification of the non - ground points
(elevations) that need to be excluded from the true &round surface. Data
shows non - ground in red, ground in blue and low points in green. Note
that the image on the right has the low points reclassified (red) or removed
from the true ground surface.
Before point reclassification After point reclassification
Step 4: Model Keypoint Generation
a. Next, a unique manipulation process normalizes the surface into one of the
tightest digital surface models (DSM) available in the industry. Final data
extraction for the client's keypoint (statistically significant points) and
canopy - building file data are then generated. Following is a screenshot of
the LIDAR surface from the MARS'S software application after the
LIDAR environment edit process has been completed. On the left is a
point cloud representation; out the right is the TIN model.
Point cloud representation after the LIDAR environment
edit process has been completed
November 14. 2005
C'. \ma�Iteung�NeM'PMVieV�mcal wPa�tl�.tloc
TIN model after the LIDAR environment edit process has
been completed
o °o MERRICK'
❑L_jL_j 91.111.1 OU-L` S01U110N8
November 14, 2005
C-\ ehng\NewpPn7 niw[APp ch,Wc
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
13
b. At this stage, surface data is sufficient, in many cases for orthorectification
of imagery without breakline enhancement dependent on terrain or
significant man made features. This is due to the high sample density of
terrain data. This allows Merrick to provide the orthophotography in
parallel with the softcopy- mapping environment. This has multiple
benefits:
• Imagery is available sooner
• Numerous breaklines can be eliminated
• Existing plan data can be evaluated prior to completion of softcopy
In general, there are several significant advantages to a LIDAR approach:
1. LIDAR provides higher accuracy data. Post - processed data can achieve
consistent vertical accuracies of 15cm RMSE or better. Although the same
accuracies can be achieved with conventional photogrammetry, the stereo -
compilation process is more manual intensive and subject to random
human errors.
2. Elevations are measured directly through an active sensor, as opposed to
inferentially through photogrammetric techniques.
3. LIDAR data is of a higher density and thus more representative of the
terrain.
4. LIDAR can provide first and last return data; first return data typically
being tree canopy and last return data being bare earth.
5. LIDAR provides for rapid data acquisition. A raw elevation model for an
entire county can be collected over the course of a few hours as opposed to
several months for conventional photogrammetry. Thus, project schedules
can be improved.
6. LIDAR is cost effective. Although the data must be validated and
enhanced with breaklines, the overall cost of producing a DTM is
significantly reduced for large projects by comparison to photogrammetric
techniques.
7. LIDAR data can be captured during conditions when conventional
photography cannot (i.e., night, clouds, and haze).
8. LIDAR data provides peripheral products (intensity images, vegetation
analysis data, canopy heights, building / structure elevation models, etc.),
which may be more costly or unobtainable from conventional
photogrammetry.
LIDAR can provide accurate elevation data in areas heavily forested,
where conventional photogrammetry cannot_ It is a misconception that
LIDAR can "see through" trees, although it can get adequate ground
returns in heavily forested areas by reflecting a pulse between branches
and leaves. Conventional photogrumnetry relies on the incident angle of
the aerial photos to provide stereoscopy. In a stereoscopic model, one
photograph may be directly over the area of interest, but the center of
adjoining photography may be several thousand feet away.
MERRICK°
RUILOINO OUALITT SOLUTIOND
Proposal to Provide
ON City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 14
A Merrick & Company value -
added product for validating
the LIDAR elevation surface.
November 14, 2005
C.imaMeung%New 011 Ted,i al Alllo.ch.doa
10. LIDAR data is processed and filtered in a highly automated environment,
thus providing consistent results.
I ill 1:1:4:4 1017-3 11MI 0 144 MP• . .
1. Merrick will provide Newport with unique new software for inspecting
and testing of the LIDAR data. This software will allow for maximum
flexibility on current and future data applications. It will also readily
provide significant quality assurance tools in the early project phases, to
assure accuracy requirements are met, and that sufficient coverage of the
project area has been accomplished. The QC module of MARS being
provided represents only a small portion of the functionality of the tool.
Additional modules can be made available for managing and analyzing the
LIDAR data as an optional service.
Overview
I. Merrick has developed proprietary software that provides clients with
several significant advantages for managing enormous amounts of LIDAR
information. The Merrick Advanced Remote Sensing (MARS Software
application comprises a Windows based modular suite of tools that are used
to manage field collection, production, and client deliverable workflows.
2. Numerous significant advantages include:
• Binary storage format
• Field coverage verification
• Control network validation and reporting in excel format
• Calibration validation of entire datasets
• Cross section/profiling of the DSM
• Client shapefile tile scheme import/export
• Graphical display of data in custom tile schemes and attributes
• Ability to export selected or inclusive data segments with ease
• User specified grid utilities
• Orthographic and perspective viewing and navigation
• Graphical point cloud representation and navigation
• Graphical thinning and polygon representation and navigation
• Selectable gridding algorithms and output formats
• Multiple output data formats
• Graphic color representation by elevation, flight line, multiple feature
class and, grayscale intensity
• Graphic data can be output in georeferenced TIF format
Binary Data Format - Project data and attribute information are stored in
binary format, minimizing file size and optimizing performance. Whole
projects can be viewed and exported with minimal computing power. 1,000
square miles of data or more encompassing gigabytes of information can be
managed at the desktop level. This eliminates requirements for large and
expensive system network and database software.
Field Coverage Verification - Ground Sample Distance (GSD) and coverage
of the entire project area are graphically reviewed and verified before leaving
the project site.
000 MERRICK°
UUU NUILOINO OUAWTV •OLUTION•
November 14, 2005
C �maNetngWev o O Ted61APII.a A.
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Pace 15
Control Network Validation — Quality assurance of the DSM can be
performed on large control networks with ease. GPS or other control can be
imported, draped to the DSM, and graphically displayed. Data can be
reviewed graphically and statistically analyzed for accuracy. Control network
checkpoints can be computed (compared) against the LIDAR DSM. The user
can specify and review the following parameters:
• Specify the radius about a control point for analysis
• Specify the vertical accuracy
• Compute min/mean/max
• Compute RMSE
• Review data by inclusive or individual control points
• Review number and statistics of individual LIDAR points within the
specified radius
Report information can be customized and include min/mean/max average,
and median statistic calculations. Elevation accuracy is user specifiable in the
statistical calculation. Reports from the application can be generated in Excel
or other text formats and exported for additional analysis.
Cross Section/Profiling of DSM - Project mission flight lines are profiled to
assure accuracy and calibration during the field collection process. Cross
sections or profiles can be selected and generated from an orthographic view
of point cloud or TIN data. Profile exaggerations can be applied I -100x scales
to compare laser flight line calibration accuracy. Zooming and panning of
cross sections or profiles of multiple flight line data allow for review of
consistency across the complete project DSM. A measuring tool is provided to
validate accuracy. Additionally, the profile can be navigated (dragged) along a
trajectory and updated to review all mission data with ease and speed.
Client Tile Scheme Import/Export — ESRI shapefule tile scheme and index
attribute information can be imported to the database. The entire project can be
viewed in a vector format with tile attributes, which provide for fast navigation to
the AOL Data can then be analyzed, or exported as inclusive or subset
information. A buffer can be specified to encompass overlapping information if
needed. Complex polygon shapefiles can also be added to clip (include /exclude)
area specific project data boundaries during the export process.
Graphic Representation — Data can be represented by point cloud, TIN, and
intensity information. Specific classifications of data can be displayed as
ground, canopy, building, powerline, or other specified classes. Additionally,
data can be displayed by flight line (individually color coded) to review specific
mission(s) and calibration information.
Performance - Data are displayed rapidly by automatic resealing of relevant
data density at any given scale. This allows for minimal computing power
requirements for extremely large data sets. Additionally, it eliminates the need
for complicated and expensive network and database solutions. The user can
specify performance resolution variables to optimize viewing speed and
resolution on specific platforms.
Navigation Tools — Navigation of data can be accomplished in orthographic and
perspective views. Data zooming, panning, and rotation can navigate through
large point clouds, TIN, and intensity data classes at the full project, tile scheme,
or macro level.
MERRICK°
SUILOINO QUALITY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
U-1 WoU City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 16
Grid — The grid utility allows the user to specify grid spacing, inverse distance
weighting, etc. Data can be exported to ESRI compatible Float Grid Binary and
ASCII formats. Sub -set or inclusive data sets can be exported to provide
maximum flexibility and data management.
Import/Export Formats — All inclusive or sub -set data can be exported to several
formats including: ASCII, Float Grid Binary, .las, shapefile, or custom. Data can
be exported by classification, which can include all points, ground, canopy,
intensity, building, vegetation, power line, or other client specified classes.
Following are several additional capabilities of this powerful application:
View by flight line
View by laser intensity
View by classification
FULLY ANALYTICAL AEROTRIANGULATION (FART)
The aerotriangulation process physically and mathematically ties individual
exposures and associates the entire photo set with the project's horizontal and
November 14, 2005 ❑❑❑ c
C9maheungWewpemTed+mcal Tpo�eacM1.E« ❑ ®❑ M E R R I C K
❑❑❑ ewLou+o aunury ecwnc «a
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 17
vertical datum. Sophisticated software corrects inherent systematic errors such
as earth curvature, atmospheric refraction, film distortion, camera lens
distortion, and aircraft (flight) inconsistencies. The final aerotriangulation
adjustment generates coordinates (X, Y) and an elevation (Z) for supplemental
photogrammetric points on each photograph. These coordinates are used to set
models during the stereo - compilation phase.
Merrick uses a systematic and time - tested procedure for completing the
aerotriangulation:
The aerotriangulation process physically and mathematically ties individual
exposures and associates the entire photo set with the project's horizontal and
vertical datum. Sophisticated software corrects inherent systematic errors such
as earth curvature, atmospheric refraction, film distortion, camera lens
distortion and aircraft (flight) inconsistencies. The result of the final FDAAT
solution is exterior orientations for each camera station; x,y,z location at the
photo center and tip, tilt and swing of the camera at the instant the photo was
captured. The exterior orientations are used to set models during the stereo -
compilation phase.
Throughout the FDAAT process Merrick is inspecting (approving and
rejecting) the data before proceeding with the next step of the process.
Thus, by the time the bundle adjustment is executed, only potential errors
in the input control are remaining. The technician thoroughly reviews the
residual and RMS results of the AGPS, ground control, and terrain
(matched) points to ensure that the final results will support the accuracy
requirements of the project.
Merrick strongly encourages the use of check points as an independent
verification of the final bundle adjustment. We propose that Newport
survey approximately 10 -20 well - distributed check points throughout the
project area. Newport will withhold the coordinates and elevations of
these check points and compare them against the derived coordinates from
the bundle adjustment. Upon approval of the aerotriangulation results by
Newport, these check points can be incorporated into the final adjustment
as additional control.
3. A comprehensive report detailing the results of the FDAAT task will be
submitted to the Newport project manager. The report will include, at a
minimum, the following information:
• A brief narrative of the aerotriangulation process
• Root Mean Square (RMS) error and residuals of the ground control
points
• A discussion of any control misfits and corrective actions taken to
resolve misfits
• A statement of accuracy
• A digital file of exposure locations with flight and exposure number
annotated
4. The final report will be inspected and signed by Merrick's project
manager, a Certified Photogrammetrist, and FDAAT technician.
November 14, 2005 1111❑ O
C \marketing \New dWedniWl ArPro ch.dO ❑*❑ MERRICK
1111❑ SUILOINO OUALITY SOLU"ON6
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
18
PROJECT PROTOTYPE
Once the imagery, LIDAR, survey, and aerotriangulation have been
completed, Merrick recommends a project prototype. This will allow Newport
to visualize all the database products requested in the RFP for a sample portion
of the project. Completing the prototype ensures that both parties have a clear
understanding of all project products and specifications. We believe we
understand the complexity of this project and therefore do not anticipate major
modifications in our procedures as a result of the prototype.
Merrick proposes that a formal Prototype Review Meeting is held at Newport's
offices. Alternatively, Merrick can host the meeting if Newport would like to
tour our facilities in Colorado. The Newport project team will have an
opportunity to review the prototype data prior to the review meeting. We
recommend a review period of two (2) to four (4) weeks by Newport.
The prototype will be a representative sub -set of the entire project. It is
important to obtain a large enough sample of the project to ensure most
database situations and anomalies are reviewed. Merrick proposes that four to
six tiles should be completed to review unique project characteristics and
economically complete revisions to the database if modifications are required.
Specifically, the objectives of the prototype are:
L Review the Database Design Document and determine the final list of
attributes to be populated.
2. Produce a working model of the ortho image and DEM data products
being generated and verify that the data will meet Newport's expectations.
This model may be used by Newport to demonstrate and communicate the
purpose of the project to consortium management and administrators.
3. Test the physical database structure. The primary aspects of the design
will focus on defining and documenting important database structure items
such as:
■ Coverage / layer naming conventions
IN Item naming and coding
• Annotation level definition
• Database tolerances
• Line and symbol coding
• Attribute definition
• Tile formatting
4. Refine communication protocol and response time expectations for
resolving project issues.
5. Establish and strengthen the working relationships between Merrick and
Newport.
6. Modify in -house project quality control processes, as necessary, to remain
compliant with project accuracies and specifications.
7. Modify and customize existing AML, MDL, LISP, etc. routines and in-
house programs to conform to the unique characteristics of the project.
8. Once all prototype issues have been resolved, Newport would then provide
Merrick authorization to proceed on project -wide production.
NovemberrQ2005 ❑❑i❑❑ MERRICK°
November 24, 20 C5LnlGl Approacltdoc
❑❑❑ OUILOINO YUAWTV •OLU"ONE
Auto filtered data with trees
and structures removed.
Auto filtered data with trees and
structures removed including breakline
November 14, 2005
C �maneungwewpcmiernnmai Fppmacn eoc
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 19
1. Utilizing a combination of automated filtering techniques, MARS ®, and
softcopy photogrammetry, Merrick derives "bare earth ". The filtered
LIDAR data is draped on the imagery. LIDAR data points, either
individually or in groups, are edited to ensure that they are "on the ground."
Supplemental breaklines are compiled in critical locations to ensure the final
DTM and contours meet project accuracy specifications. As a final
validation, contours are generated and again draped in 3 -D. Merrick has
integrated a combination of techniques, including 2D and 3D, to achieve the
required accuracy specifications.
• Because LIDAR point placement is accomplished randomly, the data does
not often model steep slopes, retaining walls, culverts, roadside ditches
and hydro features
• Merrick's 2 and 3 -D edit procedures takes the filtered LIDAR point cloud
and, converts the resultant surface into raw contours. Contours are
reviewed with digital imagery, Merrick's analysts can readily determine if
there are any errors in the LIDAR point data, and determine where
breaklines need to be added. Merrick's 2 -D approach utilizes LIDAR
points in attributing the Z values of the breakline.
• The actual number and density of breaklines added to a LIDAR DSM are
significantly less, when compared to a traditional photogrammetric DTM.
This is due to the number of LIDAR points being hundreds of times
denser. Additionally, the positional accuracy of the DSM data is far better
than traditional photogrammetry.
• Specific examples where Merrick's analysts would add breaklines and/or
modify the LIDAR are listed below:
Points are also deleted from under bridges and a bridge polygon
inserted to show where this was done
Water areas are surrounded by a water breakline and a water spot
elevation placed in the water body
— Roads are compiled with road breaklines and, if a crown is visible,
a centerline breakline is compiled
3. Next, breaklines are used to delete point data from within water and roads
then used as standard 3 -D breaklines so that the final product will depict
flat water surfaces and crowned roads. The LIDAR edit data proceeds to
3 -D quality control, compilation edit, and LIDAR final surface adjustment.
In the margin are examples of the LIDAR DSM before and after breakline
addition.
Hydrographic Breakline Procedure
Because of the many LIDAR projects completed by Merrick, we have
developed our own software and procedure to compensate for the many
technical issues associated with creating accurate and cartographically correct
elevation databases. The following summarizes the use of MARS' software to
compile breaklines for hydrographic features (i.e., rivers, lakes, etc.).
❑❑i❑❑ MERRICK'
❑❑❑ OUILOING DUALITY GOLU"ONt
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
1. Lakes
Lakes are compiled by using a combination of the L1DAR to determine
elevation and ortho to determine X, Y location. There are two steps needed to
compile a lake elevation:
Step 1. Because LIDAR returns in water bodies are generally inaccurate, care
must be taken to select the correct elevation. Two measurement systems can be
used to determine the lake elevation:
Measurement #1. Find the lowest possible L1DAR point at the water's edge
next to the bank of the lake. This technique can be used when there are no
LIDAR returns inside of the water body.
Example: The user must find an edge of the bank that is not obscured by
vegetation. In this image, the area around the dock is an excellent example
Example: The surface has been rendered and primary colors have been added
to describe subtle elevation changes in the surface. One -foot contours have
been placed over the classified keypoint data at the inside and outside of the
take. The yellow elevation "below" the thick contours would be the correct
elevation for this lake.
Measurement #2. Lake elevation can also be determined by finding the
"average lowest" elevation of the LIDAR returns. This technique is helpful
when the banks of the take are obscured by vegetation.
Example: One -foot contours have been placed over the classified keypoint
data at the inside and outside of a lake. The contours will help the user to
determine the elevation of the lake.
November 14, 2005 oio MERRICK°
Nove eber14, 20 edinilal Approatli.Epc
UUU OUILOINO DUALITY •OLUTION0
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 21
Example: The surface has been rendered and primary colors have been added
to describe subtle elevation changes in the surface. The yellow elevation
"below" the thick contours would be the correct elevation for this lake. By
sampling a few of the yellow elevations, a precise elevation can be determined.
Step 2. Once the correct elevation has been selected, the user can then compile
the edge of the lake using the ortho.
November 14, 2005 131313 O
C%maBebng%New DO%Te nlwl Appme Ap 13013 MERRICK
❑❑❑ GUILOINO QUALITY SOLUTIONS
I
F� E-91
IL
bl
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 23
Example: A stream can be seen in the ortho connecting a swampy area to a
lake
Example: Before breaklines. One -foot contours are generated from the
keypoint data.
Example: The water bodies and stream are compiled
November 14, 2005 ❑❑io MERRICK°
November er 14.2005 nval Approatli doc
❑❑❑ SUILOINO QUALITY SOLUTIONO
November 14, 2005
C'lrnarketInq \Newport %Tetlrnie lApproach Ooc
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
Example: After breaklines. The hydro features now reside underneath a
continuous contour.
CONTOUR GENERATION
24
Following the collection and verification of the newly developed DTM data
(derived from the LIDAR DSM and hreaklines), :derrick uses MARS'` to
process the DTM and interpolate the new m o -foot ('_') contours. MARS' is
proprietary software that Men ick has de% eloped to provide clients with several
significant advantages for m;utaging em.ntnous amuuna of LIDAR
information. Internal to Merrick, the MARS' Sofhcare application also
includes additional modular suite, of tool. th :u arc used I r contour
interpolation and other apphcnnon,
The following outline pro%ides a eooci.�r dewription art the signific' nt
procedures'iuilestones that kill occur to cre:ue contours tier the project.
1. The points in the DT:M are retatcd :ntd connected to each other bti creating
a Triangulated IrreCruhr Network Il HNI. Dr.i%Sing ',-D triailLdcs %5 hose
comers arc the D'I'M points creates the TIN,
MERRICK°
e UILDING QUALITY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
2. When the points in the DTM are collected "on the ground" and in a
sufficient density, the legs of the triangles that connect the points
accurately represent the surface of the terrain. These triangles that are
created to make the TIN are "drawn" within the contour interpolation
(CIP) software according to certain rules.
25
3. The principle rule is that breaklines act as a "hinge" for any interpolation
that would pass through them. That is, any triangulation that tries to get
past a breakline by going over or under it is forced to go up or down to that
breakline and then continue on from there, This prevents the TIN from
"submarining" through ridges or "bridging" over drains.
4. The next step is to process the TIN to create the contour levels using
contour interpolation software (CIP). After processing, attributes for
elevation and line type are automatically populated for each line.
5. Contour data will be interpolated across sheet (tile) edges to form a
continuous line. This will create an exact edge match of contours along
the tile boundaries. Merrick will use the predetermined tile and sub -tile
layout to "clip" continuous data into individual tiles.
6. Creating an aesthetic cartographic contour map is the next step in the
process. At the editing workstation, contours are smoothed, enhanced, and
verified to be within the tolerances of the accuracy specifications. During
the prototype Merrick will work with the Partners to determine the
cartographic quality of the contour database.
7. A final inspection of the vertical accuracy is then performed by comparing
spot elevations to the interpolated contours. This essential, quasi -
independent validation proves the accuracy of the contours relative to the
adjustment of the aerial photography.
Merrick utilizes ArcGIS software tools to create topologically correct
coverages /geodatabases, validate edgematching, and populate the database
with appropriate attribute values. All final data will comply with the database
design standards.
I. Using the final tile layout, Merrick will "clip" the continuous data into
individual tiles.
2. Menick's existing AML's and ARC tools will be customized to meet the
specific QC /QA requirements of the Partners. Merrick can make selected
AML tools available to the Partners to expedite the QC.
3. Following the on -line completeness verification, Merrick will then make
corrections, if needed.
Merrick understands the necessity for providing our clients with topologically
correct databases. Thus, all final processed graphic data will conform to
standard GIS topology "rules ":
■ Edge Matching: All digitized features will be both visual and coordinate
edge matched with features from existing data, adjacent tiles, sheet edges,
and at model breaks or other artificial boundaries within a tile. No edge
November 14, 2005 ❑❑i❑❑ MERRICK°
C�ImaMetingWewpoTTecnniW Pp ?��,�c
❑❑❑ SUILOINO OULLITY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City —Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 26
match tolerance will be allowed. Attributes for adjoining features will also
be identical.
■ Common Boundaries: All graphic features that share a common
boundary, regardless of digital map layer, will have the exact same digital
representation of that feature in all common layers.
■ Point Duplication: No duplication of points will occur within a data
string.
IS Connectivity: Where graphic elements visually meet, they will also
digitally meet. All confluences of line and polygon data will be exact
mathematically; that is, no "overshoots," "undershoots," `offsets" or
invalid "pseudo nodes will exist. Lines that connect polygons will
intersect polygons precisely; that is, every end point will be an intersection
point of the respective polygon.
IS Line Quality: A high quality cartographic appearance will be achieved.
Transitions from straight line to curvilinear line segments will be smooth
and without angular inflections at the point of intersection. The digital
representation will not contain extraneous data at a non - visible level.
There will be no jags or hooks or zero length segments. Curvilinear
graphic features will be smooth with a minimum number of points. When
appropriate, line- smoothing programs will be used to minimize the angular
inflection in curvilinear lines. Any lines that are straight, or should be
straight, will be digitized using only two points that represent the
beginning and ending points of the line.
IS Segmentation: The digital representation of digital elements will reflect
the visual network structure of the data type. An element will not be
broken or segmented unless that segmentation reflects a visual or attribute
code characteristic or unless the break is forced by database limitations.
■ Area and Polygon Closure and Centroids: For area features being
digitized, the last coordinate pair will be exactly (mathematically) equal to
the first coordinate pair. Centroids will be placed in all polygon area
features.
IS Point Criteria: All point features will be digitized as single x, y
coordinate pairs at the visual center of that graphic feature.
DIGITAL ORTHOPHoTo GENERATION
Merrick has extensive experience in producing digital orthophotography for
our clients. Since 1990, we have generated over 40,000 color, black & white,
and infrared images on projects of all sizes and complexities. Our 10 digital
imaging technicians are well versed in all aspects of image processing and
Merrick remains current with the latest software developments and processing
techniques. Our in -house programming personnel provide customized support
as necessary, to enhance production processes and image characteristics.
The algorithms used to rectify imagery are static within the industry.
Regardless of whether individual vendors use off - the -shelf or customized
software and all inputs being equal, the positional accuracy characteristics of
the final orthos will be essentially the same. Therefore, our focus is on image
quality, production efficiencies, and customer support.
November 74, 2005 11811 MERRICK°
C
November
nerJ14. 2 TeMniral App..,aM doc
BUIWINU YUYUTY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
�.,',;,,,.� City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 27
The following is an overview of the process by which Merrick creates digital
orthophoto images. There are five (5) main steps involved in creating a digital
ortho. These include the following:
I. Creation of the ortho DEM
2. Negative rasterization (scanning)
3. Fully differential orthometric rectification
4. Radiometric correction and image mosaicking
5. Data quality inspection and delivery
Secondary processes may include:
• Resampling to multiple resolutions
• File compression
• Integrating the imagery into Merrick's custom display and plotting
extensions
Merrick uses Leica/Helava's latest release (4.3. 1) of digital ortho processing
software and high -end Dell workstations. Each step of the production process
has internal validation measures, which must be approved before proceeding to
the next step.
The following section outlines our procedures for generating the ortho imagery.
I. The aerial images are thoroughly reviewed by our Digital Imaging
discipline lead for clarity, contrast, shadow detail, sunspots, and scratches.
Photography that will not provide the highest quality final imagery will be
re -flowm at no cost to Newport.
2. The project area is sub - divided into workable blocks for efficient
processing (up to 50 stereo - models per block). DEM data are merged for a
given block and the elevation data is graphically displayed relative to the
project boundary to ensure that all areas will be correctly rectified.
3. Ultimately, orthophotos are as accurate as the rectification surface on
which they are based. Rigorous quality assurance procedures provide
confidence that the DEM and consequently the orthophoto meet or exceed
specifications. Therefore, the DEM is evaluated using various isometric
views to check for any "spikes." The technician also validates that the
DEM blocks overlap to ensure that there are no data gaps between blocks.
4. A grid is generated from the DEM. A gridded surface is more suitable for
rectification than a DEM.
5. Project parameters (photo scale, camera calibration data, output resolution,
etc.) are input to a project file for access by the Leica/Helava software.
6. Interior orientations (fiducial measurements) are imported from the stereo -
compilation department to obviate the need for re- measurement and
maintain consistency between the compiled data and final ortho imagery.
7. A reduced resolution data set is created by minifying (re- sampling) the
scanned imagery. The reduced resolution data set will be subsequently
used for the initial rectification.
November 14, 2005 111111 O+
.,ma�eUn9,Ne�OM,T ,�� Appr��.da 11011 MER R I CK
❑❑❑ OUILOINO QUALITY OOLUTIONG
Downtown Denver
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 28
1. Establishing or defining the ground surface and scanned negative
relationship via digital orientation are the next steps in the process. Digital
images are geo- referenced to the DEM surface through an interior (from
the camera calibration report) and exterior orientation (from the FDAAT)
of the scanned image. These orientations relate the scanned image to the
camera and subsequently the camera to the ground.
2. Leica/Helava's module MO is executed to simultaneously rectify and
mosaic an entire block of imagery. This process is completed on the
minified data set as an initial rectification to expedite processing. Merrick
will use a Cubic Convolution re- sampling method, with the ability to edge -
enhance or smooth an image as needed to arrive at the best geometric and
radiometric output possible in the commercial market today.
3. Seam lines are automatically generated by the software and displayed to
the technician. Tone and contrast are adjusted automatically between
input images during this process, with the images then feathered across a
buffer zone to eliminate seam lines within the project area.
4. The ortho technician reviews the locations of the seam lines and manually
modifies them to avoid height objects and to place them in monotone areas
(through open field, along road centerlines, etc.). The technician also
reviews the image characteristics and modifies a block -wide histogram as
necessary to adjust the overall tonal balance.
5. A second and final rectification is completed on the full resolution data set
using the modified parameters and edited seam lines from the initial
adjustment. Tonal balancing on a block basis is again reviewed to ensure
consistent imagery. Overall image quality is reviewed to ensure that the
imagery is of consistent tone and contrast across the project area, and to
specifically look for any breaks or processing failures within the image.
Any such breaks will be cause for rejection and recreation of the affected
sheets after determining the nature of the problem.
6. The block of imagery is cut to individual delivery tiles.
7. A visual inspection of each tile is completed for aesthetics (dust, lint,
scratches, smears, building and bridge lean, etc.)
8. Bridges are corrected by rectifying them at "zero" elevation. The rectified
feature is referenced and transferred to the final image file.
Building lean is inherent in aerial photography due to the radial displacement
properties of the aerial camera lens. However, true orthophoto generation can
eliminate building lean, thus permitting unobstructed views of ground features
on all sides of the building and ensuring a truly orthogonal view of the
imagery. Naturally, true orthophoto generation requires a more rigorous
approach than traditional image rectification.
The following summarizes Merrick's approach to creating the true orthos for
Newport.
November 14, 20e ❑E MERRICK°
November 14, 2ReMimtal APProarn.COc
❑❑❑ SUILOINO DUALITY SOLUTI0N6
Downtown Denver
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 29
1. Additional aerial photography will be flown with at least 80% overlap and
60% sidelap.
2. The photography will be acquired in "blocks" over the individual areas
requested for true ortho rectification in the RFP.
I A Feature Database file is generated using Leica's Pro600. The purpose of
this file is to "pull" the buildings upright by placing rooftops directly over
the buildings' footprints.
• Breaklines are photogrammetrically captured along the ground, rooftops,
multi- levels of structures, and slopes. Each planar facet of roofs is
collected as separate breakline polygons and/or polyhedrons. For curved
building walls, the curves are divided into facets with breaklines.
• During rectification, features that are polyhedrons containing single
polygons are assumed by the software to be roof polygons; the sides of
the building are automatically generated by dropping the polygon
vertices onto the DTM surface. Polyhedrons containing multiple
polygons are assumed to consist of roof and sides already, thus no sides
are generated by the Leica software. Polygon features are assumed by
the software to be roof or bridge polygons, and no sides are generated;
this allows for proper rectification of surfaces that hover over the ground,
particularly bridges.
• When breaklines are collected, care is taken to place the edges of
polygons just outside the edges of the buildings. This prevents artifacts
from the edges being left behind in the imagery when the building is
pulled into place.
4. The Feature Database is exported into the format required by the
Orthophoto module using PROFDB.
5. A digital terrain surface (DEM, DTM, or LIDAR DSM) is prepared and
imported into SOCET SET as a Ath file. This file will contain
masspointfbreakline data and/or model keypoint data, and will be used in
conjunction with the Feature Database file during rectification. The analyst
utilizes a TIN format for rectification.
6. The Leica True Ortho software transforms the imagery along the triangle
boundaries, thus providing a highly accurate rectification of the terrain.
Additional files needed are support files generated during the AT process,
which will contain interior and exterior orientation parameters for the
rectification process.
7. Next, image pyramids are generated for each scan to be rectified (an
internal requirement of the software).
8. For each true orthophoto, a base image must be selected as the target.
Were this image to be rectified alone, the feature database file and the
DTM would pull the buildings upright and put their roofs over their
footprints; however, a shadow would be left on two sides, thereby
occluding the terrain. Supplemental imagery is required to solve this
problem. One or more supplemental images that have coverage in the
hidden area are used as inputs to the process.
9. The Leica software automatically then detects the occluded region and
selects the best image(s) to use to fill the area. To ensure the most
November 14, 2005 oi°❑ MERRICK°
C ovem er 14, 2005nniral gpproacli.doc
000 BUILDING QUALITY SOLUTIONS'
3 -D Sample Image —
Knoxville, TN
November 14, 2005
CtMaReUn9Wew0a<llTeAni�al rMIGn) Aac
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
accurate coverage in order to eliminate occlusion in the target ortho, the
analyst will utilize eight supplementary images.
30
10. The imagery is then rectified and checked for accuracy. Special care is
taken to review the final true ortho for smears caused by DTM or missing
aerial photography. If a smear occurs, the ortho technician reviews the
DTM and imagery used in the rectification. Appropriate modifications are
made to eliminate the source of error.
11. Once the true ortho is inspected and accepted, the image is then mosaicked
into a larger ortho block that was created from the original 60% endlap
30% sidelap photography. In this process, the footprint covered by the
true ortho block is removed from the larger ortho block. This allows the
true ortho to be feathered into the seamless mosaic.
12. Final ortho tiles, which contain both true and traditional ortho, are then
"clipped" into Newport's tile format.
Merrick recognizes that the quality of orthophoto imagery can be subjective.
Imagery that may look good to one person may not to someone else. For this
reason, we work closely with our clients during the start -up and prototype
processes to develop imagery that is suitable for all users. Our philosophy is
that we are working as a team with our clients to achieve the desired results for
their intended applications.
The following outlines potential orthophoto quality issues that may arise on
any given project and Merrick's solutions to these issues.
Image Clarity
The clarity of the image can be significantly affected by atmospheric haze and
dust. Thus, aerial photography will be taken in accordance with ASPRS
Standards for Aerial Photography whereby the "photography shall not be secured
when the ground is obscured by haze, snow, smoke, dust, flood waters, or
environmental factors that may obscure ground detail." The aerial photography
is thoroughly reviewed for compliance with this standard.
Brig htnesslContrast
Brightness and contrast can be controlled during the film processing, scanning,
and orthophoto processing phases. The best way to achieve the proper brightness
and contrast is through proper film selection and film processing. Although these
factors can be controlled somewhat during the scanning and ortho processing
phases, the extent to which they can be controlled is primarily dependent on the
quality of film processing. Merrick completes a histogram analysis of the
imagery prior to scanning to analyze and adjust the dynamic range of gray scale
values for brightness and contrast. Brightness and contrast can also be further
adjusted on a project -wide basis during the mosaicking process.
We recognize that acceptable brightness and contrast of the ortho imagery is
subjective and varies from client to client. In an effort to determine the
optimum image quality parameters at the onset of the project, Merrick will:
■ Submit sample scanned images of varying contrast and brightness prior to
scanning the balance of the film negatives
MERRICK°
RUILOINY OUGLITV •OLOTION{
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Paae 31
■ Review the contrast and brightness of a sample set of imagery during the
prototype review meeting
Shadows
The extent to which shadows impact the imagery is a direct result of the time of
year and time of day that the photography was flown. Longer shadows will give
an overall appearance of darker imagery in heavily shadowed areas even though
a histogram analysis may show that the imagery is similar. Regardless of the
film type used or the time of year /day flown, you should be able to identify at
least some, and preferably all, detail in shadow areas. To ensure the highest
possible visibility of detail in shadows, the aerial vendor must properly expose
the film and process the film according to manufacturer's specifications.
Scratches
Scratches can be introduced at various stages of the process. Scratching can
occur when the film passes across the platen in the camera, as the film is being
passed through a film processor, as the film is being used to generate contact
prints /diapositives, as the film is being scanned or even as the film is being rolled
across a light table for review. It is difficult to completely eliminate scratches.
To minimize the impact of scratching, Merrick works exclusively with aerial
vendors that use the latest in camera and film processing technology. These
vendors also recognize the importance of proper handling and storage of the
original negatives. Whenever film is being reviewed on a light table, white lintless
cotton gloves are wom by the technician and the table is thoroughly cleaned.
Scratches are "paint- brushed" out during the orthophoto image QC check. The
heaviest concentration is placed on scratches that fall on planimetric features,
although any scratch that is unsightly is fixed. The extent to which scratches
are fixed is a subject discussed at the kickoff and prototype review meetings.
Artifacts
Artifacts (lint, dust, etc.) can be introduced any time the film is being rolled
out for any purpose. Although vendors and their subcontractors usually take
great care to avoid scratches and artifacts, it is nearly impossible to eliminate
them altogether. Artifacts that are unsightly or that fall on critical features are
"paint- brushed" out during the orthophoto image QC check.
Mosaicking
Mosaicking is completed as a standard process to minimize the effect of
inherent tonal variations from photo to photo. Our ortho technicians will
review and modify seam lines so that they are placed in areas of consistent
tonal balance and between buildings or bridges. A dynamic range adjustment
is completed across the entire block of images to provide a tonally balanced
product. The mosaicking parameters can be carried from block to block to
ensure the entire project area has consistent tonal qualities.
Radial Displacement (Buildings)
Due to the radial properties of the aerial camera, buildings will "leari' outward
from the center of each exposure. The extent to which a building leans is a
function of the height of the building and the distance from the nadir of the
November 14, dffe Moo MERRICK°
Novem er 14, 2005ftniral Approach dx
❑ ❑❑ MUILOINY -UAL-Ty •OWTIONS
t= Y � •_
Image Group 1:
Image Group 2:
November 14, 2005
C:Mar ebngWewp Uednic lMP� An
Proposal to Provide
City - Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 32
photo. This can be very detrimental to ortho imagery since the leaning
buildings will obscure otherwise visible features.
There are several ways to correct this anomaly. Buildings can be modeled by
capturing breaklines at all elevation levels, and using this "DTM" data in the
rectification of the orthos. This is known as true ortho rectification. This is a
very expensive and time consuming task and is typically cost effective only in
downtown areas with extremely tall buildings. A second option is to capture
single spot photos directly above small areas of tall buildings. These "spot
shots" are single -photo rectified and "spliced" into the standard photo set. A
third option is to select and rectify the frame of photography that is most
centered over the building(s) of interest.
For this project, Merrick has proposes to eliminate building lean by using a
true ortho process in the requested, downtown area.
Radial Displacement (Bridges and Overpasses)
In the case of bridges and multi -level overpasses, the orientation of the bridge
in relation to the principle point of the photograph plays a large part in the
output appearance of that bridge. If the bridge is oriented close to the photo
center, very little modification, if any, may be required for that bridge. If the
bridge is located to the edge of the photo center, a marked degree of
modification can occur to that structure, such as warping, ribboning, melting,
etc. Merrick will make every attempt to rectify bridges and overpasses using
portions of the imagery that are closest to the center of each exposure, thus
minimizing the lean of these features.
Positional Accuracy
The best way to internally validate that the final ortho products meet the
required accuracy standard is by measuring control points on the final ortho
photos and comparing the values with the survey control coordinates. If
available, planimetry is overlaid with the image data as well to check
specifically for correct fit, placement, and completeness of the data prior to
final formatting and delivery.
Final image quality and geometric fit is reviewed before translation to the
client - specific file format. Once translation has occurred, the translated
images are displayed to ensure no errors have occurred in translation. The
images are then written to the specified media for delivery to the client,
and are backed up with all related project data to assure data recovery for
future operations.
2. For this project, we anticipate that all imagery will be output as TIFF
format files (.tif) with a georeferencing world (header) file (.tfw). This
format is readable by Arclnfo and other GIS packages.
Acceptame Criteria
Newport understands that the quality of ortho imagery is subjective to each
user and quantifying the acceptability of ortho imagery, in specific terms, is
not a goal of this project. Due to inherent anomalies in aerial photography,
Newport accepts that there will be minor variations in brightness, contrast and
oao ° MERRICK°
NUILOINO DUAWTV SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
OEM City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 33
color tone in the ortho imagery throughout the project area. The following will
be used as a guideline for acceptance of the digital orthophotography. These
anomalies must be apparent when viewing at the intended mapping scale (i.e.,
F=100' scale).
Artifacts
Accepted — Minor artifacts only. Scratches and artifacts in areas of
"insignificance" such as water, trees, fields, etc. Scratches and artifacts,
regardless of location, do not detract from usability or overall aesthetics of
imagery.
Accepted with Rework — Significant scratches and artifacts throughout tile.
Scratches and artifacts on numerous planimetric detail such as buildings,
roads, etc. Scratches and artifacts detract from usability or overall aesthetics
of imagery.
Contrast
Accepted — Contrast is the same or very similar to agreed to prototype.
Accepted with Rework - Contrast is significantly different than agreed to
prototype.
Radiometry I Seamlines
Accepted - Only minor variations between tiles or flight strips when viewed in
conjunction with surrounding tiles or across project/delivery area. Seamlines
between individual source photos are nearly or completely invisible. Obvious
attempts have been made to "feather" seamlines and they have been placed
primarily in monotone or inconspicuous areas.
Accepted with Rework - Significant variations are apparent between tiles or
flight strips when viewed in conjunction with surrounding tiles or across
project/delivery area. Obvious seam lines exist between source photos with no
apparent attempt to correct. Seam lines have been placed through buildings
when other routes could have been used.
Clarity
Accepted - Image is clear and primarily free of blurred areas within the
limitations of mosaicking and the source aerial photography. Pixel resolution
is correct as per specifications. All image pixels exist.
Accepted with Rework — Image is not clear or has numerous areas blurring
that can be attributed to factors outside the source aerial photography. Pixel
resolution is greater than defined by specifications. Image pixels have dropped
out.
Warping I Stretching
Accepted — Imagery is free of warped or stretched areas.
Accepted with Rework — Image has warped or stretched area that cannot be
attributed to extremely steep terrain.
November 14,2005 U O
e:Manebng \Nea OUe�nic lAppr eM.do ❑t,❑ MERRICK
❑ ❑❑ SUILOINO DUALITY SOLUTIONS
., Proposal to Provide
WOU City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 34
Edge Matchinq
Accepted — Ortho tiles edge match within the tolerances of accuracy
requirements.
Accepted with Rework — Ortho tiles do not edge match within accuracy
specifications.
Positional Accuracy
Accepted — Ortho imagery matches planimetric data within the tolerance of
accuracy specifications. (+/- calculations on control and/or check points) are
within accuracy specifications.
Accepted with Rework— Ortho imagery does not match planimetric data
within the tolerance of accuracy specifications. { +/- calculations on control
and/or check points) are not within accuracy specifications.
!Image Resample
Following image acceptance, Merrick will resample the data, creating a I.0'
dataset.
Merrick understands that the following deliverables will be provided to
Newport for this project, and are that Newport will maintain sole ownership of
such:
I. ASCII Coordinate listing of all new (temporary) established GPS points.
2. Shapefile of the new GPS control points.
3. Final Ground Control / GPS Survey Report,
I. FDAAT results report and computations (include AGPS derived photo
centers and ground control coordinates).
2. Shapefile of the resultant stereo -model limits.
LIDAR Products
1. Shapefile of the flight plan(s).
2. Final classified (filtered) DSM (bare -earth) in binary (.las) and ASCII
format.
3. First return (canopy) data in binary (.las) and ASCII format.
4. Intensity return data in binary (.las) and ASCII format.
5. Accuracy (control) report illustrating the results between the DSM and
project ground control in Microsoft Excel (.xls) format.
1. Quarter -foot (0.25') pixel resolution color digital orthophotography in Tiff
format (.tif) ith a geo- referencing world header file (.tfiv) delivered on
CD /DVD.17Omd )i'),S/� roq.Ma{
November14,2kTe vivo MERRICK'
C lmarke bee 14. 200dinical gpproacli.EOc
000 SOILOINO OUAL1iY •OLU"ONO
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
35
2. One -foot (1.0') pixel resolution resamples of color digital
orthophotography in Tiff format (.tif) with a geo- referencing world header
file (.tfw) delivered on CD / DVD.
1. Two -foot (2.0') contours with annotation and indexing at 10' intervals in
ESRI Geodatabase format delivered on CD / DVD.
2. Final enhanced surface (DTM) as line and point files compatible with
ESRI software delivered on CD / DVD.
1. NGS data or reference sheets of any available and/or monumented ground
control points.
2. ASCII file of any existing ground control points with attributes.
3. Shapefile / Arclnfo export file (.e00) / AutoCAD (.dwg) / MicroStation
design file (.dgn) of the existing tiling index with attributes.
4. FDGC metadata template
5. Timely and thorough review, feedback, and acceptance of deliverable
products.
It is imperative on any project to develop quality control policies and
procedures suitable for efficiently evaluating and ensuring the quality and
integrity of the map products and digital databases. Merrick fully understands
that the cost of ensuring quality at the onset is considerably less than the cost
of rework. Poor quality work also bears opportunity cost in schedule impacts
(rework vs. new work) and future references. But most of all, providing high
quality data to our clients is just the right thing to do! Therefore, at Merrick,
our goal is to ensure that all QC steps are in place at the onset of the project
and that the highest quality products are delivered the first time. Merrick
takes full responsibility for the work of all subcontractors and for their
adherence to this same policy.
Since the company's inception in 1955, Merrick & Company has successfully
completed literally thousands of architectural / engineering / surveying / GIS
projects. With this extensive experience we recognize that it is not realistic to
expect that every project will unfold exactly as planned. Issues may arise and
problems may occur within the span of this contract. Although we do not
anticipate problems on this project, we will adhere to a basic and cooperative
plan should they occur. It is Merrick's policy, and firm commitment to:
• Identify problems at an early stage
• Engage in honest and open communication with Newport about problems
• Resolve all problems in a professional, timely and courteous manner
Novembere 2005 ❑❑i❑❑ MERRICK°
NovembeW14, 2lTeUniral gpp,oecp,aoc
❑❑❑ autLoma 4u GLITY aowU GNs
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
Overview of ONGIC
Merrick employs numerous QC checks throughout the entire mapping process.
However, we place our greatest concentration on the initial photogrammetric
processes — aerial photography, control (AGPS and ground GPS), and
aerotriangulation, as these tasks form the basis of final product quality and
accuracy. Once these processes have been completed, any additional errors that
are introduced to the process tend to be random and not systematic in nature.
We also place significant emphasis on the final processing of the digital
imagery. Our goal is to provide seamless, tonally - balanced imagery that
supports our clients' aesthetic requirements. One of the greatest challenges of
producing digital orthophotography is defining, with quantifiable criteria, the
acceptability of imagery. What looks good to one end user may not to another.
Thus, review of sample imagery and the prototype project are critical facets to
this project. Newport's challenge will be to achieve consensus with all users.
Merrick has extensive experience working with multiple entities on projects
such as Newport's. We will assist in guiding any discussions concerning the
imagery during the prototype review meeting.
The flight plan is prepared and checked by the project manager to ensure
proper photo coverage, flight height, and overlap. A copy of the recommended
flight plan is submitted to Newport for review and approval prior to the flight
mission.
The film is processed and edited to verify that maximum allowable tolerances
for crab, tip, and tilt have not been exceeded, and that optimum overlap has
been maintained. The film review is completed by both AFS and Merrick.
The film is also reviewed by Merrick's digital orthophotography specialists for
clarity, contrast, and potential anomalies.
Merrick feels that the use of a subcontractor helps ensure quality products.
Merrick has significant experience reviewing film/imagery products and
believes this component critical to the overall quality of any produced
imagery. As such, we are extremely thorough in our review and acceptance of
imagery.
Merrick has several procedures used throughout the LIDAR mission that
assures the elevation data meets the predefined accuracy standards. The
primary QAJQC steps are summarized below:
Mission Planning
During the mission planning step, Merrick details the criteria of the project to
make sure that the specifications can be easily met. Our QA/QC checklist and
procedures are modified to meet the unique requirements of each project.
Specific items that are checked during the mission planning are:
• Datum verification
• Obtain NGS reference information
• Prepare safety plan
III Input and verify flight line start/stop into Track'Air Navigation system
■ Input and verify altitude of each flight line
November 74. 2005 °oi°❑ MERRICK°
C:MadellnglNewprnil�etl�mral ApproacM1.tloc
ULJLJ BUILDING DUOLIYY SOLUTIONS
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 37
■ Inspect each flight line for potential flight line breaks
In- flight Quality Inspection
During the actual flight, the pilot and LIDAR Operator is in constant
communication in the aircraft. Both are concentrating on flight navigation to
assure that the appropriate area(s) are being mapped. Additionally, the in-
flight operator is constantly monitoring satellite configuration, laser pulse
output, and other system parameters. Merrick's two (2)- person, in- flight
procedures are key components to acquiring high quality LIDAR data.
GPS Planning
In order to acquire accurate horizontal and vertical elevation data, the GPS
portion of the project must be carefully planned and executed. To acquire
elevation data that meets the required contour specifications, Merrick will need
to have a minimum of six (6) available satellites and DOPS less than four (4).
Previous experience has demonstrated that approximately 8 -10 hours of flight
time are available per day.
AGPS Base Station Placement and Number
As previously mentioned, control would be achieved through the Airbome
GPS (AGPS) and Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) Position and Orientation
(POS) technology. To complete this portion of the project, Merrick will
provide base station support with two (2) receivers during aerial photography
mission. Having two base stations operating during each LIDAR mission is a
method to guarantee that the aircraft is no more than fifty (50) miles from a
GPS base station. The additional receiver also provides redundant data in the
unlikely event of a GPS equipment or satellite problem.
GPS and IMU Field Inspection
At the end of each flying mission, LIDAR, GPS and IMU data are inspected in
the field. The primary items being inspected in the field are:
• Area of coverage
• Kinematic GPS results (A fully constrained network adjustment will be
performed to check the accuracy of the base stations)
• Inertial measurement results
• Tie comparison between adjacent flight lines
• x,y,z location of all ground retums with associated time stamp are
inspected
If any of the above items are questionable, additional re- flights will occur
during the next flying mission.
Filter Testing
Filtering "bare earth" is accomplished using both off- the -shelf and custom
software. Prior to filtering large amounts of data, testing is complete on
various ground cover areas within the project. Comparisons are then
accomplished between known elevation points and the filtered data. This
allows Merrick to customize our filters and compensate for unique areas such
as: bare earth and low grass; high grass and crops; fully covered coniferous
trees; fully covered deciduous trees; and, urban. The end result of this
procedure is a better defined elevation model representing bare earth.
November 14, 2005 1111❑ O
C: \maMehngWew nJemnirlArPlo Aoc 11011 MERRICK
❑❑❑ •UILOINO QUALITY ZOLUTIONO
Proposal to Provide
City — Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 38
Control Check Point Comparison
After the filtering is complete, Merrick analyzes and compares the LIDAR
data with known elevations. We anticipate being able to use the project's
extensive control database to accomplish this step.
■ All AGPS projects are flown with at least two (2) ground stations. All
ground stations are set up at pre - determined, multi -path free locations.
Multiple ground stations provide data redundancy, which allows
processing from one ground station to the other.
■ During the flight, all ground stations are monitored. Any interruption in
operation can be conveyed to the flight crew via radio.
■ In the aircraft, GPS lock is monitored on the Trimble survey controller.
All end -toms are kept to a 20- degree bank or less to reduce the risk of
losing initialization.
• At the end of the day's mission, all data is copied onto laptops creating
multiple copies.
• Post processing is done with a 15- degree mask angle, using the best
satellite configuration for that day. The final submitted post processed file
is the combined product of forward and reverse processing.
O
■ Several GPS receivers, observing simultaneously, will be used in a "leap
frog" approach to GPS observations.
■ All antenna heights will be measured in both meters and feet to guarantee
and verify an accurate receiver setup. Survey data collected from the field
by receivers will be checked daily by reviewing processed raw data and
running loop closure checks.
■ Loop closure tests of the ground control GPS observations will be
performed to validate the integrity of the data. Closures on the GPS
network show the resulting precision ratio in parts per million (PPM).
Results are shown for each day of observations and for the entire project.
Coordinates are referenced to latitude and longitude, while height is an
ellipsoid value. The total distance traveled along the traverse is displayed
together with the accuracy in parts per million (PPM). Also, the mis-
closure by the difference in X, Y and Z Cartesian coordinates (dx, dy, dz)
is shown. Loop closures are done before any adjustment and before any
constraint of the GPS network. The latitude and longitude coordinates and
ellipsoid heights from loop closures are not to be used as final coordinates.
■ An error ellipse is used to show each point's expected horizontal coordinate
standard error. The scale of the plots is shown by the bar ticks running
through the ellipses and by the tag at the bottom of the page of the display
indicating the bar scale tick value. The scale is the same for all pages of the
displayed ellipses. The point name is shown at the lower left of each ellipse
and the angle (measured counter - clockwise from the positive east bar scale)
made by the major ellipse axis is shown at the lower right. The sigma scalar
shows the ellipses in the 95% confidence region.
November 14, 2005 tl ini�a! l❑
Eio MERRICK
Moroam ex
❑o❑ BUILDING OU^U1Y OOLUT ONB
November 14, 2005
Odmar ebng Newport \Ted niwf APPm MOoc
Proposal to Provide
City— Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach
- •
■ The RMS results of the interior orientations are reviewed by the
aerotriangulation technician for compliance with a set standard of <10
microns.
■ Potential auto - correlation matching errors are automatically flagged by the
software and resolved by the aerotriangulation technician.
• The analytical technician will review the soft pugged scanned imagery to
verify not less than one (1) tie point per stereo model is common to the
adjacent flight line, and that each stereo model contains not less than six
(6) pass points.
• During point mensuration on the softcopy analytical stereoplotters,
independent model solutions are computed, and refined photo coordinates
are checked to ensure that no point exceeds 10 microns of error.
■ During the mensuration process, the analytical technician wi(1 check for
presence of gross errors, and take preventive measures during the
intermediate adjustment procedures. Ground control checkpoints are used
to verify the ground control survey and aerotriangulation. After the
accuracy has been verified, the checkpoints will then be included in the
final aerotriangulation and in all subsequent stereo model setups.
■ The aerotriangulation technician thoroughly reviews the residual and RMS
results of the ALPS, ground control and terrain (matched) points from
initial and final adjustments to ensure that the final results will support the
accuracy requirements of the project.
■ The final bundle adjustment is reviewed by the aerotriangulation
technician, discipline lead, project manager, and a Certified
Photogrammetrist (CP).
■ An Aerotriangulat ion Report is generated, reviewed, and signed by the
discipline lead, project manager, and a Certified Photogrammetrlst.
.. . Image QAfQC
• Aerial negatives are thoroughly reviewed by our digital imaging discipline
lead for clarity, contrast, shadow detail, sun spots, and scratches.
• White lintless cotton gloves are worn by technicians when film negatives
are being reviewed and the table is thoroughly cleaned.
• The DEM is evaluated using various isometric views to check for any
"spikes."
■ DEM data are merged for a given block and the elevation data is
graphically displayed relative to the project boundary to ensure that all
areas will be correctly rectified.
Ortho technicians validate that the DEM blocks overlap to ensure that
there are no data gaps between blocks of imagery.
■ Ortho technicians review the location of seam lines and manually modify
them to avoid height objects and to place them in monotone areas (through
open field, along road centerlines, etc.).
MERRICK0
autLOMM OUAUTY •OLUTIONI
Proposal to Provide
EMU City - Wide Aerial Photos and Contours
City of Newport Beach Page 40
■ Ortho Technicians review the block -wide image characteristics and
modifies a histogram as necessary to adjust the overall tonal balance.
IS Tonal balancing on a project -wide basis is reviewed to ensure consistent
imagery and to specifically identify any breaks or processing failures.
■ A final visual inspection of each the is completed for aesthetics and
anomalies (dust, lint, scratches, smears, building and bridge lean, etc.)
■ Visible control points are measured on the final orthophotos and are
compared against the values of the survey control coordinates. An RMSE
is calculated for all measured control points and compared against the
accuracy standards for the project.
C
November 14, 2005 o °o MERRICW
GMarkeLnglNewPOM1 \Terliniral Apploachdoc
❑ U BUILDING YULLITY BOLUTIONB
N
FlIghtplan for 2' Contours
AF,
A
E 7 M 1-1�