Photogrammetric Developments for Highway Engineering

Aerial photogrammetry has generally been accepted as an accurate and efficient tool for highway engineering and its integration with the electronic computer has increased the usefulness of both. There is a concerted effort to develop new techniques and applications of these tools and as a result the fullest use of the photos is not being made. There is a tendency to wait until maps and other products are prepared before attempting to study location. It should be remembered that considerable time and money can be saved in location of route by use of photogrammetric mapping if a careful study is made of the aerial photos with the stereoscope by an engineer trained in this technique. Noticeable progress has been made in gaining the confidence of the engineer, contractor, and general public in aerial photogrammetry. To maintain this progress, the engineer and the aerial photogrammetric contractor must insist on accuracy. This desired accuracy can readily be obtained by having (sufficient) accurate control, capable photogrammetrists, good equipment, and working within the capability of the instruments.