Aerial Survey Mapping & Monitoring
Mapping of an area can be undertaken quickly and efficiently to produce results with fast turnarounds. Highly accurate 2D and 3D mapping surveys are available meaning measurements and calculations can be taken from them. This service is popular with construction sites, quarries and real estate properties.
Photogrammetry & Laser Scanning
Creating high quality realistic life like models of construction sites, properties, buildings or other infrastructure provides a context to an otherwise complex and difficult structure or area. A photogrammetry capture process that has been developed and refined is used to ensure a high quality digital twin . These images are then processed to generate an interactive model that you are able to view on your computer or device. Being able to navigate a structure from your office that you would ordinarily need rope access, scaffolding or elevated work platforms to access.
3D models created by drones in combination with other terrestrial sensors offer a suite of benefits that traditional surveying isn’t able to match. Having the capability to navigate around a digital twin of your asset leaves no gaps in the knowledge and a digital record that can be shared with other stakeholders.
These 3D models provide the accuracy and precision to measure point to point distances, areas and volumes. Creating these annotations and producing PDF reports that can easily be shared with contractors and other parties.
The use of photogrammetry in surveying and GIS projects has become more widespread with the rise of drone technology. It is now possible to capture high-quality 3D models that are accurate to within 20-30mm
The ability to assess a structure from a computer enables asset owners to quickly and easily make informed decisions.
Use Cases for Aerial Construction Site & Property Surveys
Drone surveys on construction sites and properties offer a range of benefits, enhancing efficiency, safety, and accuracy in various aspects of the construction process. Here are some key use cases and services for drone surveys in construction
Site Inspection and Monitoring:
Drones can perform regular site inspections, providing a comprehensive view of the construction site. Aerial surveys can help identify potential issues, track progress, and ensure that construction activities align with plans.
Topographic Mapping:
Our drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and LiDAR sensors can create accurate topographic maps of the construction site. Surveying companies can provide topographic mapping services, helping construction teams understand the terrain and plan accordingly.
Accuracy & Measurement:
Using ground control and RTK drones enables survey accuracy up to 20-30mm which enables precise measurements. Capabilities in software enable measurements such as point to point, cross sections, elevations. Contour lines can also be generated.
Volumetric Analysis:
Drones can calculate volumes of earthworks, stockpiles, and excavations. Volumetric analysis services enable accurate measurement of material quantities, aiding in project cost estimation and resource management.
Progress Tracking and Reporting:
Drones capture real-time images and videos to monitor construction progress. Construction management services can utilise drone data to create progress reports for stakeholders, showcasing milestones achieved and potential delays.
Inspection of Inaccessible Areas:
Drones can access hard-to-reach or dangerous areas, such as rooftops or towers, for inspections. Inspection services using drones enhance safety by minimising the need for personnel to work in hazardous environments.
Quality Control:
Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can identify defects or inconsistencies in construction elements. Quality control services can use drone data to ensure that construction meets specified standards and regulations.
Asset Management:
Drones can be used to track and manage construction equipment and assets on-site. Asset management services leverage drone technology to optimise the use of equipment, reduce downtime, and enhance overall efficiency..
Environmental Impact Assessment:
Drones can capture data for environmental impact assessments during and after construction. Environmental consulting services can use drone surveys to evaluate the impact of construction activities on the surrounding environment.
Communication and Collaboration:
Drones provide visual data that can be shared among project stakeholders. Collaboration services can use drone-generated data to facilitate communication and decision-making among architects, engineers, contractors, and clients.
The Aerial Survey Process
Using drones for aerial surveys on constructions sites can achieve absolute accuracy between 20-30mm. Deliverables include;
- Orthomosaic Maps
- Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)
- Digital Surface Models (DSM’s)
- 3D Point Clouds
- Volumetric Calculations
- Contour Maps
- Vegetation Index Maps
- Thermal Imagery Analysis
- Interactive Web Platforms
- Platforms or applications that allow stakeholders to interact with survey data in a user-friendly manner. This allows measurement and annotations capabilities
- Determine the specific information needed, such as topographic data, construction progress monitoring, or environmental analysis.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding drone use. Obtain the necessary permits or approvals from aviation authorities to operate the drone legally in the survey area.
- Plan the survey mission, considering factors like the survey area size, flight altitude, camera settings, and flight path. Take into account safety measures, weather conditions, and any potential obstacles
- Choose a drone equipped with the appropriate sensors for the survey objectives. High-resolution cameras, LiDAR sensors, or multispectral cameras may be used depending on the specific requirements of the survey.
- Conduct a thorough pre-flight check to ensure that the drone is in good condition. Check the battery, propellers, sensors, and communication systems to avoid any technical issues during the survey.
- Fly the drone according to the planned mission. Use autonomous flight planning tools or manual control to ensure the drone covers the entire survey area. Capture images or data at specified intervals for optimal coverage.
- Collect high-resolution images, LiDAR point clouds, or other relevant data during the drone flight. Ensure adequate overlap between images to facilitate accurate photogrammetry or 3D modeling.
- Transfer the collected data to a computer and use specialised software for post-processing. This may involve stitching images together (photogrammetry) or processing LiDAR data to create accurate maps and models.
- Geo-reference the survey data with the ground control to ensure accurate spatial representation. This involves aligning the data with geographic coordinates GDA2020 AHD to create maps that can be integrated into a geographic information system (GIS).
- Analyse the processed data to derive the required information. This could include creating topographic maps, volumetric calculations, vegetation health assessments, or other survey-specific analyses.
- Create detailed reports and visualisations based on the survey results. These reports can be shared with stakeholders, providing valuable insights for decision-making.
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