Mapping and surveying are carried out using drones with specialised cameras, including RGB (for photogrammetry), multispectral, thermal, or lidar sensors. This method allows for the collection of highly accurate data in a very short period of time.
Benefits of Using Drones in Mapping and Surveying
SAFETY Drones provide safe, efficient inspections for applications across the energy industry, including traditional power generation, transmission and distribution.
QUALITY AND EFFICIENCY Ground-based data collection typically lacks the detail and flexibility that a drone can provide. Multi-rotor drones can even capture thermal and RGB imagery. Though helicopters are also an option Helicopters can capture data quickly over large areas of land, but they are expensive, can’t operate near residential areas, and often miss finer defects. Helicopters cannot detect rust, missing pins, or damaged insulators on power lines.
ACCURACY It is a critical factor that enables the use of drones in every industry. One of the most important considerations when using drones in surveying and mapping are the tools needed for proper accuracy.
REDUCES PROJECT TIME AND IS COST EFFICIENT Data collection using drone is much faster and less expensive than with traditional manned aerial vehicles or satellite imagery. Drone technology can drastically reduce inspection time.
Areas where drones are being used for mapping and surveying:
Topography: It is a type of map characterised by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief features, usually using contour lines.
Contour Elevations: Contour lines mark points of equal elevation on a map.
Alta-surveys: An alta survey is a specialised boundary survey of a property that adheres to strict standards.
Volume Measurements: Volume measurement using drones is an extremely fast, accurate and cost-effective method to analyse volumes on your maps from any device.
Site Development: It facilitates site scouting, allotment planning, design, and the final construction of roads, buildings, and utilities.
Progression Monitoring
Utility Line Measurement
Railroad Track Measurement
Conclusion
There are various companies that use drones for mapping and surveying as it has a number of advantages. Drones are being used more frequently by surveyors and engineers for terrain assessments and mapping. The concept of drone implementation has made inspections and mapping much more easy and cost effective.
