Cloud computing for performing complex calculations for 3D models
By integrating highly specialized compute capacities across multiple AWS regions, Aerowest was able to completely replace local computing capacities in just a short period while drastically reducing computational time thanks to elastic cloud resources.
Aerowest GmbH specializes in capturing and processing geodata from high-resolution multiperspective aerial images. The generated data is incorporated as baseline data into digital twin/smart city applications. These serve as a starting point for documentation, location marketing, simulation, and even public participation.
The project at a glance
- 80% reduction in net calculation times by leveraging elastic cloud resources
- VPN access from three different AWS regions to ensure optimum use of the required instance types
- Greater transparency about function and costs by setting up tagging-based monitoring
- Parallel computation of large projects possible thanks to the high flexibility of the available computing capacities
Initial situation
The increased demands placed on the speed and quality of 3D model calculations could no longer be met using local computing resources. Aerowest required support to facilitate the transition to AWS. Firstly, a direct connection needed to be established between its on-premises systems and the cloud (network and software setup). Secondly, there was a need for advice on how to best operate a cloud solution.
Solution
The solution combines the economic advantages of the cloud with the reliability necessary for Aerowest's business. Appropriate spot instances are used for computation instead of on-demand instances. The former can save up to 90% of the costs compared to those otherwise incurred by on-demand instances. This results in significant savings, as Aerowest's applications require a great deal of computing performance.
Connecting three AWS regions for greater reliability
Reliability is ensured by connecting three different AWS regions (Frankfurt, Ireland and Paris). Since AWS can reclaim Spot instances at any time, it is important to be able to switch flexibly to other data centers in such cases. This was ensured by configuring suitable routes and a dedicated VPN connection to the on-premises systems. This means that Aerowest is able to realize projects as planned even if there are local shortfalls in the necessary instance types.
Reliable overview of access granted
The basic AWS setup was also configured to reflect best practices. A clearly defined user and role concept and appropriate security measures such as 2FA ensure that Aerowest is able to maintain an overview of the access granted at all times.
Emergency recovery possible
Everything was developed with Terraform as infrastructure-as-code and provided by us in case a recovery of the environment and the additional monitoring set up would be necessary.
Result
Aerowest successfully completed the transition from local computations to cloud computing in a short period. The high flexibility of available computing capacity makes it possible that even large projects such as the project for the UNESCO World Heritage Site Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex 
or the digital twin of the city of Bonn can be calculated in parallel without generating any additional running costs.
This combination allows Aerowest GmbH to extend its existing leadership in quality with a competitive edge in speed, without having to worry about skyrocketing costs. Both are the basis for continued market success.
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Marc Bialowons