Enhancing Drone Inspection Efficiency with FUJIFILM GFX100S II and PIX4Dmatic

In a significant development in the field of drone inspections, FUJIFILM has announced that its advanced mirrorless digital camera, the GFX100S II, is now compatible with PIX4D's 3D modeling software, PIX4Dmatic. This integration will allow for the straightforward creation of high-resolution 3D models from drone images, streamlining inspection processes for plants and infrastructure facilities.

As the aging of plant equipment and social infrastructure becomes increasingly apparent, the importance of regular inspections has surged. With challenges like a declining workforce and rising labor costs, the demand for drone-based inspections has grown tremendously. FUJIFILM, in collaboration with local drone manufacturers, has been validating the capabilities of the GFX100S II to ensure high-precision aerial inspections since 2024. The camera's stunning resolution of 102 million pixels allows for drone-captured images that can achieve precision comparable to close visual inspections in hard-to-reach areas, earning positive feedback from inspection companies and plant operators.

Innovative Features of PIX4Dmatic

PIX4Dmatic employs cutting-edge Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry technology, enabling high-precision 3D model generation. Users can easily obtain 3D models that combine comprehensive aerial images with ultra-high-detail snapshots. This makes it an invaluable tool for addressing the complexities of structures such as plants with extensive networks of pipes and buildings, ultimately resulting in more efficient inspection workflows. Furthermore, the software can be paired with AI detection tools to enhance inspection solutions.

Upcoming Exhibition at JAPAN BUILD TOKYO

FUJIFILM will participate in JAPAN BUILD TOKYO, one of the largest construction industry exhibitions in Japan, held from December 10 to 12 at Tokyo Big Sight. At their booth, visitors will have the opportunity to see high-resolution 3D models created using PIX4Dmatic and the GFX100S II. Additionally, industrial drones designed by Ishikawa Energy Research Co., equipped to carry the GFX100S II, will be showcased, including two models: the Build Flyer Chrome and the Hybrid Drone Series.

Future Directions

FUJIFILM plans to continue leveraging its comprehensive camera product line and imaging technologies, alongside software integrations, to develop solutions that tackle the challenges faced in the construction, plant, and infrastructure inspection sectors.

Specifications of the FUJIFILM GFX100S II

With a large-format sensor boasting 102 million pixels, the FUJIFILM GFX100S II can capture extraordinarily high-resolution images when paired with specific interchangeable lenses. Compared to a standard 26-million-pixel APS-C size sensor camera, it offers about four times the imaging area, significantly reducing capture time when mounted on drones. Weighing approximately 883 grams (body only), it is remarkably lightweight, making it an excellent choice for use in consumer drone systems without compromise to performance or cost.

FUJIFILM also offers a Linux-based SDK for the GFX100S II, allowing remote control for various applications, including drones, vehicles, and robots.

Additional Information

For further details, you can refer to the Pix4D news release.

For queries related to the exhibition and products, please contact:

FUJIFILM Corporation Imaging Solutions Division
Email: [email protected]

This integrated approach positions FUJIFILM at the forefront of technological advancements in drone inspections, ensuring the future of efficient and reliable infrastructure monitoring.