Graz, Austria • October 10, 2023: From the Intergeo 2023 in Berlin, Vexcel Imaging today announces the launch of the new UltraCam Merlin 4.1, an advanced camera system currently available in two models serving as a gateway to professional aerial data collection.
Equipped with high-end Bayer pattern sensors, the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 meets the fundamental quality and accuracy standards demanded by professionals in the field. The system captures true nadir imagery at industry-leading geometry and best-in-class imaging performance. Paired with a sophisticated image processing chain, including proprietary solutions like True Pixel Processing (TPP) and Adaptive Motion Compensation (AMC), the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 delivers precision results and raises the bar for excellence in its class.
The system is based on the 4th generation UltraCam architecture. It maximizes the collection window and drives down project expenses through a high dynamic range, a fast frame rate and an intuitive end-to-end software workflow. Paired with world-class support, customers can offer comprehensive mapping services to their clients while perfectly leveraging their investment.
Recognizing the diverse needs of businesses, Vexcel currently makes the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 available in two models: the 2010 and the 3020. The 2010 model is perfect for local projects, featuring two RGB and one NIR nadir sensor, enabling image capture at a footprint of 20,544 x 14,016 pixels. For larger projects, the recommended choice is the 3020 model, equipped with three RGB and two NIR sensors, significantly expanding the strip width to 31,300 x 14,016 pixels. No matter the scale of the project, the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 always optimizes the time spent on data collection and processing, enabling customers to meet tight deadlines and deliver results promptly.
In choosing the UltraCam Merlin 4.1, customers join a community of forward-thinking mapping companies that place their trust in Vexcel’s highly integrated product ecosystem and services. The unparalleled upgrade path allows customers to expand capabilities when the time is right, elevating their business to new heights and staying ahead of the competition.
With the introduction of the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 and UltraCam Dragon 4.1 at Intergeo, Vexcel is expanding its offerings of aerial systems to cater to a wider range of applications in airborne photogrammetry. The product lineup now encompasses three distinct categories: the Fundamental line, which consists of aerial cameras based on Bayer pattern sensors like the UltraCam Merlin 4.1; the Premium line, comprising of the highly successful UltraCam Eagle 4.1, UltraCam Osprey 4.1, and UltraCam Condor 4.1 cameras with their established high-resolution panchromatic sensors; and the Integrated line, showcased by the newly unveiled UltraCam Dragon 4.1. This cutting-edge hybrid aerial mapping system combines LiDAR and image sensors, providing advanced capabilities for integrated data acquisition.
“We are excited to present the UltraCam Merlin 4.1 as a strong base for professional aerial data collection. This addition expands our product portfolio, catering to customers who have been seeking the renowned UltraCam quality in Bayer pattern-based sensors already available on the market. The UltraCam Merlin 4.1 offers a high return on investment as it provides full upgrade capability to the high-end sensors Eagle 4.1, Osprey 4.1 and Condor 4.1 as the company’s needs evolve,” says Alexander Wiechert, CEO at Vexcel Imaging. “At Vexcel, we have been dedicated to pioneering the development of large format aerial cameras for more than 20 years. Having a reliable and proficient partner by your side can make all the difference, providing peace of mind and unlocking the full potential of your investment. I can’t wait for our customers to experience the difference the new UltraCam Merlin 4.1 models can make for their projects.”
The system will be available on the market by end of 2023.
Key Specifications
- 20,544 x 14,016 pixels color image size (Merlin 4.1 2010)
- 31,300 x 14,016 pixels color image size (Merlin 4.1 3020)
- True nadir imagery without tilting cones
- CMOS imaging sensors
- RGB Bayer pattern and NIR
- Adaptive Motion Compensation (AMC)
- True Pixel Processing (TPP)
- 1 frame per 0.7 seconds
About Vexcel Imaging
Vexcel Imaging is a global leader in aerial imaging, known for developing cutting-edge aerial cameras, mapping systems, and photogrammetric processing software. The UltraCam 4th generation system lineup includes the high-precision Premium line, renowned for its exceptional quality and accuracy. This line comprises the highly successful UltraCam Eagle 4.1, UltraCam Osprey 4.1, and UltraCam Condor 4.1. The UltraCam Merlin 4.1 models form the Fundamental line, designed to meet fundamental imaging needs of aerial applications. The Integrated line is represented by the UltraCam Dragon 4.1, combining LiDAR with nadir and oblique image data. Covering all aspects of airborne photogrammetry, our portfolio is complemented by the UltraMap photogrammetric processing software, automating data product generation. This includes point clouds, digital surface and terrain models, orthophotos, and 3DTINs. We take pride in offering world-class support and maintaining a commitment to continuous product development. Learn more about Vexcel Imaging under www.vexcel-imaging.com.