Drone surveying is a popular phrase when talking about commercial drones. But, when you choose a drone to meet your surveying needs, what exactly does that entail? As drones change the landscape of industry after industry, here’s everything you’ve ever wondered about drone surveying capabilities.
Drone Surveying: The Way of the Future
Surveying – by both traditional and drone methods – is the process of determining distances between and positions of points in both 2D and 3D space. When compared to aerial photography, surveying provides precise information including elevation, land measurement, and more.
The difference between drone surveying and traditional surveying methods is quite simple: drone surveying occurs from the air using a drone. Drone surveying gathers all the same – if not, more – information and data.
Hazardous Terrain? No Problem
Surveying often occurs in remote areas, where the terrain is difficult, punishing, and sometimes even hazardous. Traditional surveying methods require a workforce on the ground to complete accurate measurements. This leads to higher operation costs, lower efficiency, and more dangerous projects.
Compare that with drone surveying. Drone surveying is unhindered by even the most troublesome terrains, meaning your projects can be completed with increased safety, productivity, and ease. Timelines can be shorter, measurements more accurate, and budgets smaller.
Accurate Data Collection Over Large Areas
DJI drones are industry leaders for surveying as they provide reliable data and precise information on several levels. One large benefit of using drones for your surveying needs is their ability to efficiently and accurately compile data over large areas.
Different drones have different capabilities as well. The DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Series models offer a set of drones designed for mapping missions and centimetre-level positioning accuracy. The Mavic 3E has a 4/3 CMOS Wide Camera and mechanical shutter while the Mavic 3T adds a thermal camera to make it ideal for firefighting, SAR, and nighttime operations.
The Right Deliverables for Your Industry
The right deliverables make all the difference. Depending on your specific industry needs, drone surveying can produce a number of different deliverables to perfectly complement nearly any project.
2D Orthomosaic Map
With drone surveying, you can receive high-quality 2D orthomosaic maps. These maps are compiled from hundreds – or even thousands – of digital photos captured by the drone. 2D Orthomosaic maps offer an accurate data representation of surveyed areas, precisely scaling positioning data to match reality.
3D Orthomosaic Map
Like the 2D orthomosaic maps, the 3D orthomosaic maps are compiled from digital photos. With the 3D model, you receive topographic data and detailed elevation models that can be used to make decisions and inform your next steps.
3D Models
For quick comparison with BIM, 3D models can be generated to offer a full and thorough view of the area. 3D models are ideal for detailed analysis and walkthroughs and can greatly assist with project planning, design adjustments, and stakeholder presentations.
Thermal Mapping
For projects that require heat signatures and information, drones have you covered. Certain drones are able to equip thermal imaging payloads for many projects and applications. From understanding crop health to discerning insulation flaws or even assessing energy equipment like powerlines and heating components, thermal mapping with drones is both an easy and efficient choice.
LiDAR Point Cloud
The Zenmuse L2 LiDAR camera allows clients to produce a high-density point cloud, providing you with a highly detailed 3D model of the terrain and structures. For urban planning, environmental management, and virtual reality simulations, LiDAR is a perfect option.
Multispectral Mapping
For crop management and agricultural ventures, multispectral mapping provides invaluable insight into vegetation health including plant stress, water distribution problems, and pest infestations
Ready to Learn More?
Contact us today to learn more about how drones can change your industry and day-to-day processes. Our capable team will work with you to ensure your questions are answered and you receive the right advice for any job. To guarantee this, we offer free consultations from our team of professionals to make sure you get precise answers to all your questions.
