Algorithms and Software Architecture for the Production of DEM Data From LIDAR, Phase I

Diamond Data Systems (DDS) proposes the development of a new, advanced architecture, algorithms and software to support the end-to-end processing of LIDAR data to derive a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Our approach is innovative in three ways. First, we propose a complete end-to-end system instead of a solution that addresses only a single step of the complex problem of accurately gathering, processing, and reporting of the data. Secondly, we propose a system that is designed to minimize human interaction and manual data entry. Thirdly, and possibly the most important part of this innovation, is that we propose both the implementation of multiple algorithms to perform the data processing, as well as an extensible software architecture which allows new algorithms to be incorporated into the system in the future. This approach allows for the development of a dynamic system which can be extended in the future as better algorithms are developed. Our proposal is relevant to topic E3.03 in that it provides for the efficient production of a DEM product from an active imaging system (LIDAR). Current approaches to this problem only solve parts of the problem and do not provide an integrated system for end-to-end processing.

The application of this technology will benefit the non-NASA market sector by making the processing of LIDAR data inexpensive enough to be commercially viable for applications such as agriculture, land-use, and urban planning. All Earth Science: An accurate model of the earth's surface is a key component in almost all earth science applications. Homeland Security Decision Support: This technology provides the data that makes it possible to perform accurate modeling of gaseous cloud plume propagation. Flood Prediction: Our technology will make it cost effective to gather the high resolution terrain data needed for this type of modeling. Space Exploration: The study of the lunar and Martian surface will require extensive terrain mapping. Our technology will make this mapping feasible and cost effective.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.