#Japan #Tokyo #YellowScan #Voyager #W198

New Initiatives for Aerial Surveying with Voyager Scanner

In January 2026, YellowScan Japan, based in Chofu, Tokyo, is embarking on a groundbreaking project aimed at operationalizing aerial surveying using their premier scanner, the YellowScan Voyager. This initiative involves a collaborative agreement with Itochu Corporation and Pasco Co., Ltd., two giants in the field, to enhance the practical applications of fixed-wing drones in aerial surveying.

Introducing YellowScan Voyager

The YellowScan Voyager is the pinnacle model of UAV-mounted laser scanners produced by YellowScan, boasting unmatched surveying specifications on a global scale. It is designed to cater to a variety of surveying applications, including map compilation, terrain analysis, forestry surveys, and disaster response efforts. The flexibility of the Voyager allows it to be utilized not only with drones but also with high-speed helicopters, thanks to its impressive point cloud density of 525 points per square meter. This feature facilitates rapid and extensive surveying.

Traditionally, the Voyager has been mounted on multi-copter drones, which, despite their popularity, are limited in terms of flight duration and range. Such constraints often prevent optimization of Voyager’s extensive area measurement capabilities. However, the collaboration introduces the W198, an eVTOL drone developed by Wingcopter GmbH, in which Itochu holds a capital and business partnership. The W198 can fly longer distances and cover wider areas than multi-copters, fully leveraging the strengths of the Voyager scanner.

By combining the long-standing expertise and operational quality assurance of Pasco, Japan's largest aerial surveying firm, this collaboration aims to make practical the previously challenging long-distance and wide-area surveying tasks that typically required traditional aircraft or helicopters.

Establishing Roles in the Alliance

The agreement delineates the respective roles of each participant in the project:

• - YellowScan Japan: Responsible for providing the YellowScan Voyager and supporting the extraction of survey information. They will also handle all necessary regulatory approvals and registrations required by law.
• - Itochu Corporation: Tasked with providing the Wingcopter 198 and its operation. They will also secure necessary permits for its operation.
• - Pasco: Will assist in the operation of the Wingcopter 198 and coordinate with related agencies and facilities, facilitating the practical application of surveys using the Wingcopter 198.

About YellowScan

Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Saint-Clément-De-Rivière, France, YellowScan has established a robust international presence with its top-of-the-line scanning technology. With a workforce of approximately 100 employees, the company has made substantial strides in the UAV industry. The YellowScan Voyager represents a significant advancement in aerial surveying technology, paving the way for more efficient data collection across various fields.

Specifications of the YellowScan Voyager

• - Scanner: RIEGL VUX-120
• - GNSS/IMU: Applanix AP+ 30 AIR or AP+ 50 AIR
• - Resolution: 0.5 cm
• - Accuracy: 1 cm
• - Maximum Flight Altitude: 440m
• - Data Acquisition Rate: 12,000,000 points/sec
• - Weight: 3.5 kg (excluding battery)

Specifications of W198

• - Model: Wingcopter 198
• - Max Payload: Up to 4.5 kg
• - Wind Resilience: Average 15 m/s, gusts up to 20 m/s
• - Cruising Speed: 90 km/h
• - Max Flight Distance: 110 km
• - Dimensions (L x W x H): 167 cm x 198 cm x 66 cm
• - Weight: 24.9 kg

In summary, this collaboration marks a significant advance in the field of aerial surveying, combining cutting-edge technology with the expertise of established industry leaders.