Lidar system enables visual effects for Game of Thrones

11 Jun 2019

Imaging hardware & software from Teledyne Optech uses 3D data acquisition to recreate "old Dubrovnik" set.

Teledyne Technologies has announced that imaging hardware and software from Teledyne Optech helped enable 3D spatial data acquisition and visual effects for HBO’s hit television series Game of Thrones, the final episode of which was broadcast last month in the US.

A production team, led by Vektra d.o.o. of Croatia, utilized Teledyne’s lidar (light detection and ranging) technology to create a detailed 3D representation of the old city of Dubrovnik, the model for the show's fictional city of King’s Landing.

Lidar is becoming increasingly popular for creating realistic computer-generated imagery and visual special effects. Traditionally, lidar has been used for mapping and in construction, civil engineering, mining and transportation.

Lidar is now of particular interest in the film industry because of its ability to scan buildings or even entire cities in 3D, while maintaining a high level of detail and accuracy. Lidar’s ability to generate exact replicas of locations reduces the time and cost for 3D modelling and helps create more realistic visual effects.

Vektra generated 3D point clouds in Dubrovnik using various lidar technologies including Teledyne Optech’s Maverick mobile lidar system and Polaris fixed terrestrial scanner. The lidar point clouds were then colorized with digital camera imagery and image fusion software.

“We are most proud when our technology contributes to new scientific knowledge, such as revealing an extensive, undiscovered Maya civilization in Guatemala,” commented Robert Mehrabian, Executive Chairman of Teledyne. “We are equally delighted when our high-technology equipment supports art and entertainment.”

Lidar choices

Teledyne Optech develops lidar 3D survey systems, integrated cameras, and productivity-enhancing workflows. With operations and staff worldwide, the company offers lidar and camera solutions for airborne mapping, airborne lidar bathymetry, mobile mapping, terrestrial laser scanning, mine cavity monitoring, and industrial process control.

For completist GoT fans, a promotional video can be seen, below, showing how Vektra generated 3D point clouds in Dubrovnik using various lidar technologies:

Teledyne buys 3M’s gas and flame detection unit for $230M

Teledyne Technologies has also announced this month that it has submitted a binding offer to acquire 3M's gas and flame detection business for $230 million in cash. The gas and flame detection business includes Oldham, Simtronics, Gas Measurement Instruments, Detcon and select Scott Safety products.

The gas and flame detection business provides a portfolio of fixed and portable industrial gas and flame detection instruments used in a variety of industries including petrochemical, power generation, oil & gas, food & beverage, mining and waste water treatment.