Objectives In order to improve the inversion accuracy of cylindrical oil tank height from satellite imagery, this paper introduces a height inversion model of oil tank using satellite imagery with the same name arc distance (SNAD).
Methods First, we define the concept of SNAD and clarify several main geometric elements and the physical meanings of oil tank on satellite image. Then, considering the isotropic characteristics of the cylindrical oil tank, we propose a height inversion model based on imaging simulation under multiple strategic conditions. Finally, we clarify each parameter in the inversion model and deduce the calculation method of key parameters. In order to verify the accuracy and applicability of the proposed model, we invert the height of two types of oil tanks in four high-resolution satellite images and compare with the conventional methods.
Results The proposed model can effectively realize the detection of SNAD and height inversion of cylindrical oil tank in multi-satellite images. The root mean square error of the proposed model ranges from 0.50 m to 1.00 m, with an average value of 0.78 m, while that of the conventional model ranges from 9.28 m to 9.59 m, with an average value of 9.44 m. The standard deviation of the proposed model ranges from 0.35 m to 0.63 m, with an average value of 0.46 m, while that of the conventional model ranges from 6.50 m to 6.69 m, with an average value of 6.60 m.
Conclusions The proposed model has the advantages of high inversion accuracy, excellent stability, strong universality, convenience and efficiency. It can provide a new solution to carry out oil tank height inversion based on high-resolution satellite image.