Geolocation data provider Esri has paid an undisclosed amount to acquire nFrames, a Germany-based 3D mapping software developer that counts networking software producer Vector Informatik as an investor.
Founded in 2013, nFrames has created a suite of software tools under the brand Sure that are used to render 3D images from aerial and ground-level pictures of cities and rural areas. Its technology is based on University of Stuttgart research.
Esri plans to integrate nFrames’ technology to strengthen the image processing tools and spatial analytic functions of its own 3D imaging suite, 3D GIS. The company will remain at its current head office which will be repurposed as a research and development centre.
Vector Informatik’s corporate venturing arm, Vector Venture Capital, lists nFrames as a portfolio company but has not revealed when it invested.
Jack Dangermond, founder and president of Esri, said: “nFrames is a leading provider of 3D image reconstruction software and services, and I am excited to welcome the company to the Esri family.
“As Esri continues down its path of innovation to create a multidimensional experience, this acquisition enhances our ability to create extremely high-quality 3D data from imagery, which is critical for our customers in the municipal, planning and architecture, engineering and construction industries.”
The original version of this article appeared on our sister site, Global University Venturing.