Fusion of airborne LiDAR with multispectral SPOT 5 image for enhancement of feature extraction using Dempster–Shafer theory

This paper presents an application of data-driven Dempster-Shafer theory (DST) of evidence to fuse multisensor data for land-cover feature extraction. Over the years, researchers have focused on DST for a variety of applications. However, less attention has been given to generate and interpret probability, certainty, and conflict maps. Moreover, quantitative assessment of DST performance is often overlooked. In this paper, for implementation of DST, two main types of data were used: multisensor data such as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and multispectral satellite imagery [Satellite Pour l'Observation de la Terre 5 (SPOT 5)]. The objectives are to classify land-cover types from fused multisensor data using DST, to quantitatively assess the accuracy of the classification, and to examine the potential of slope data derived from LiDAR for feature detection. First, we derived the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from SPOT 5 image and the normalized digital surface model (DSM) (nDSM) from LiDAR by subtracting the digital terrain model from the DSM. The two products were fused using the DST algorithm, and the accuracy of the classification was assessed. Second, we generated a surface slope from LiDAR and fused it with NDVI. Subsequently, the classification accuracy was assessed using an IKONOS image of the study area as ground truth data. From the two processing stages, the NDVI/nDSM fusion had an overall accuracy of 88.7%, while the NDVI/slope fusion had 75.3%. The result indicates that NDVI/nDSM integration performed better than NDVI/slope. Although the overall accuracy of the former is better than the latter (NDVI/slope), the contribution of individual class reveals that building extraction from fused slope and NDVI performed poorly. This study proves that DST is a time- and cost-effective method for accurate land-cover feature identification and extraction without the need for a prior knowledge of the scene. Furthermore, the ability to generate ot- er products like certainty, conflict, and maximum probability maps for better visual understanding of the decision process makes it more reliable for applications such as urban planning, forest management, 3-D feature extraction, and map updating

Challenges in Coastal Spatial Data Infrastructure implementation: A review

The ability to cope with the complexity surrounding the coastal zone requires an integrated approach for  sustainable socio-economic development and environmental management. The concept of integrated coastal  zone management (ICZM) was advanced in response to this. In line with the success story of spatial data  infrastructure (SDI), initiatives are currently emerging to develop SDI for marine and coastal environment. The aim of this paper is to review emerging initiatives so as to identify the problems faced with  implementation and discuss the way forward. The result may support stakeholders, policy makers, academia, and the government to leverage on the experience of others for a robust and sustainable policy and action plans on coastal management.Keywords: Coastal SDI, Integrated Coastal Zone Management, environmental protection, spatial planning

Advanced differential interferometry synthetic aperture radar techniques for deformation monitoring: a review on sensors and recent research development

This paper reviews the advanced differential interferometry synthetic aperture radar (A-DInSAR) techniques, with two major components in focus. First is the basic concepts, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data sources and the different algorithms documented in the literature, primarily focusing on persistent scatterers. In the second part, the techniques are compared in order to establish more linkage in terms of the variability of their applications, strength and validation of the interpreted results. Also, current issues in sensor and algorithm development are discussed. The study identified six existing A-DInSAR algorithms used for monitoring various deformation types. Generally, reports of their performance indicate that all the techniques are capable of measuring deformation phenomena at varying spatial resolution with high level of accuracy. However, their usability in suburban and vegetated areas yields poor results, compared to urbanized areas, due to inadequate permanent features that could provide sufficient coherent point targets. Meanwhile, there is continuous development in sensors and algorithms to expand the applicability domain of the technology for a wide range of deformable surfaces and displacement patterns with higher precision. On the sensor side, most of the latest SAR sensors employ longer wavelength (X and P bands) to increase the penetrating power of the signal and two other sensors (ALOS-2 PALSA-2 and SENTINEL-1) are scheduled to be launched in 2013. Researchers are investigating the possibility of using single-pass sensors with different look angles for SAR data collection. With these, it is expected that more data will be available for various applications. Algorithms such as corner reflector interferometry SAR, along track interferometry, liqui-InSAR, and squeeSAR are emerging to increase reliable estimation of deformation from different surfaces

R Stack Career

The Career Engine\u27s main purpose is to create a platform for job searchers to find suitable and gratifying work based on their qualifications. It also connects job searchers with the recruiting process. This career engine recognizes when a job seeker applies for a job and when a company publishes a job and chooses a candidate. A career engine\u27s principal objective is to aid job searchers in getting a quick career. In today\u27s society, there are several employment portal platforms. In this case, we must create a web-based application utilizing the Career Engine. In this period of decline, everyone, experienced or unskilled, is seeking for a job. Our career engine might be quite beneficial since it allows people with a variety of profiles to submit their CVs and search for employment depending on their qualifications. Each user may connect with their user id and apply for many jobs at the same time. Our team opted to build the website with the MVC framework in Dot Net Core for the backend and HTML5, CSS3, Bootstrap, JavaScript, and Ajax for the front end, with data saved in MS-SQL. The career engine system is used by Applicants, Recruiters, and Administrators. The administrator oversees the entire application. Recruiters can post job openings as needed. Applicants may submit a CV containing both personal and professional information

Characterization of Macro- and Micro-Geomorphology of Cave Channel from High-Resolution 3D Laser Scanning Survey: Case Study of Gomantong Cave in Sabah, Malaysia

Three-dimensional documentation of hypogene cave morphology is one of the major applications of laser scanning survey. This chapter presents applications of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) survey for analyzing endogenic cave passage geomorphologic structure and morphometry using 3D meshing, high-resolution 3D texture modeling for geovisualization, and its potential for cave art documentation. To achieve this, multi-scale resolution 3D models were generated; one using the mesh model for macro-morphological analysis and the other with the full-resolution scan to produce high quality 3D texture model for identification of micro-morphological features. The mesh model of the cave makes it possible to analyze the general shape, distinguish phreatic tube from post-speleogenetic modified conduits and carry out morphometric measurements including the cave volume and channel surface area. The 3D texture model provides true to live visualization of the cave with exceptionally high level of accuracy and details that would be impossible to obtain with direct observation by visiting the site or from the mesh model. The model allows discerning different speleogenetic phases, karstification processes and micro-morphologies such as wall and ceiling seepage, hanging rocks, fractures, scallops, ceiling flush dome, pockets, bell-hole and avens. Also, the texture model permits identifying cave arts and engravings along the passage

Building extraction for 3D city modelling using airborne laser scanning data and high-resolution aerial photo

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology has become a standard tool for three-dimensional mapping because it offers fast rate of data acquisition with unprecedented level of accuracy. This study presents an approach to accurately extract and model building in three-dimensional space from airborne laser scanning data acquired over Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2015. First, the point cloud was classified into ground and non-ground xyz points. The ground points was used to generate digital terrain model (DTM) while digital surface model (DSM) was  produced from the entire point cloud. From DSM and DTM, we obtained normalise DSM (nDSM) representing the height of features above the terrain surface.  Thereafter, the DSM, DTM, nDSM, laser intensity image and orthophoto were  combined as a single data file by layer stacking. After integrating the data, it was segmented into image objects using Object Based Image Analysis (OBIA) and subsequently, the resulting image object classified into four land cover classes: building, road, waterbody and pavement. Assessment of the classification accuracy produced overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient of 94.02% and 0.88 respectively. Then the extracted building footprints from the building class were further processed to generate 3D model. The model provides 3D visual perception of the spatial pattern of the buildings which is useful for simulating disaster scenario for  emergency management

Sustainable solar energy development in Zakho, Iraq: a techno-economic and environmental assessment

This study presents a solar energy roadmap aimed at attracting investors to capitalize on the abundant solar resources in Zakho, Iraq, for clean energy technology. The objective is to mitigate global warming effects caused by fossil fuel combustion and promote sustainable technological development. To end this, the study employs RETScreen Expert software to validate the techno-economic and environmental viability of a grid-connected solar photovoltaic system utilizing climatic data from the Astronaut Office Information System (NASA) Database. Additionally, the Photovoltaic Geographical Information System (PVGIS) modeling method determines optimal angles for installing residential rooftop Photovoltaic (PV) systems across selected locations. Results indicate that all selected locations are suitable for solar photovoltaic projects, with Rezgari identified as the optimal district due to its highest annual solar radiation of 1863.117 kWh/m2 and the highest annual electricity production at 7905.38 kWh. The capacity factor (CF) values fall within the range of 17.395-17.574%. The study reveals an annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction ranging from 6.9876 to 7.1123 (tCO2) across four districts. Considering the financial and environmental indicators, Rooftop Photovoltaic Systems emerge as a sustainable and efficient solution to enhance the environment and prove economically viable in Zakho City

Utilization of AHP for selecting conceptual design of portable oil spill skimmer

One of the most important ways to preserve the surrounding environment after an oil leak is to carry out an oil spill response action plan. A quick response and a significant impact should be made in response to any emergency scenario to minimize contamination to the sea and marine life. A number of approaches were developed to deal with oil spills, including utilizing floating barriers, skimmers, storage barges, tanks, and other equipment. These solutions rely on the kind of spill and the tactics used by the emergency response team. To assist respond to oil spills, the project is being undertaken, providing an option for water treatment applications. The proposed design is aimed to address few issues such as the high cost of the current design, staticity, and inefficiency. This research presented the technical requirements of the portable oil skimmer which are obtained from the house of quality and presented four conceptual designs. The conceptual designs have been analyzed in the analytical hierarchy process and the best design has been selected. The first conceptual design had the highest priority among the four conceptual designs proposed which was 31.8%. A detailed design has been generated by using SOLIDWORKS software. Choosing the right concept for a product is a vital step in the development process. Inappropriate selection could lead to a high failure rate in the market for produced goods. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) is a tool that can be used to tailor the decision-making process. Almost all applications involving decision-making problems use AHP as a tool. The methodology and findings of a study based on the AHP idea are presented in this research. The procedures done can be used as a guideline to help designers or engineers assess numerous design requirements, options at the conceptual design stage, and finally make precise decisions. Part of this project is identifying the technical requirements of portable oil skimmer by utilizing the quality function deployment and selecting the best conceptual design using the analytical hierarchy process. The objectives of this research have been achieved as the user and technical requirements of the portable have been identified and the best conceptual design has been selected via the AHP. The research can be improved further by conducting an experiment on the proposed design to verify its efficiency