The ikeTM 304 is a ruggedized, hand-held device for collecting geospatial data with digital instrumentation. It is a product of a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) between the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) and Surveylab, Ltd. The product seamlessly integrates and synchronizes a global positioning system (GPS), laser distance meter, digital camera, compass, incli-nometer, geographical information system (GIS), and personal digital assistant (PDA) computer. These developments allow users to quickly capture a rich array of geospatial and attribute data, annotated with images and text, e.g., capture and review a target position and photo, add attribute data to the feature, review and add photos, and view the new feature on a map. The instrument's database stores and shares data, and its automated GIS-based system facilitates data analysis, interpretation, and reporting. |
 Benefits/Savings
Users benefit from the instrument's compact size, user-friendly design and interface, and integrated digital technologies, required in today's field applications. The logic of the CERL-developed business process, combined with the portability and functionality of Surveylab's ruggedized hardware, enables rapid, accurate decisionmaking. The ikeTM 304 uses criteria-driven forms to collect objective data digitally, so users can make decisions and take remedial actions in the field. The product continues to fulfill its original design intention¿to record and map natural and cultural resources for asset management on military installations¿and has extended its utility to many other field applications. The Corps is using this technology to conduct vulnerability assessments for homeland security via the Access Control Point Program (ACPP) for military installations. Immediately following Hurricane Katrina, the instrument was used by Task Force Guardian to triage the condition of the flood protection structures and prioritize rebuilding efforts. |
Problem