EvMAPPER: High Altitude Orthomapping with Event Cameras

TL;DR

This paper introduces EvMAPPER, a novel orthomosaic mapping method using event cameras that can operate effectively in challenging lighting and motion conditions where traditional CMOS cameras struggle.

Contribution

The first orthomosaic mapping approach utilizing event cameras, enabling high-quality map generation in difficult lighting and motion scenarios.

Findings

Operates effectively in challenging light conditions.

Handles high-speed motion and moving objects.

Produces accurate orthomaps with event cameras.

Abstract

Traditionally, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) rely on CMOS-based cameras to collect images about the world below. One of the most successful applications of UAVs is to generate orthomosaics or orthomaps, in which a series of images are integrated together to develop a larger map. However, the use of CMOS-based cameras with global or rolling shutters mean that orthomaps are vulnerable to challenging light conditions, motion blur, and high-speed motion of independently moving objects under the camera. Event cameras are less sensitive to these issues, as their pixels are able to trigger asynchronously on brightness changes. This work introduces the first orthomosaic approach using event cameras. In contrast to existing methods relying only on CMOS cameras, our approach enables map generation even in challenging light conditions, including direct sunlight and after sunset.