When it comes to collecting data with a lidar UAV, the process can take anywhere from less than an hour to several days, depending on the size of the project. For smaller projects with a lightweight drone lidar, the process is much faster than for larger projects that require manned aerial lidar. According to Fraser, the main reasons for collecting lidar from drones are time, money, security, and the level of detail required. In many cases, using UAV lidar is more cost-effective than mobilizing an airplane or helicopter to collect the data.
This is because it is significantly faster than traditional methods, allowing you to increase your profits. Traditionally, lidar data has been collected from the air via a helicopter or airplane, or on the ground with a scanner placed on a tripod. With ground-based data collection, the scanner and equipment are moved to the next location after data is collected - often just 50 feet away - and this process is repeated over and over again. As projects typically cover hundreds or thousands of acres, this method can take months or even years to capture all of the necessary data.
Drone-based remote sensing offers an alternative solution with its light detection and range (lidar) sensors that provide geospatial accuracy and fidelity. Lidar point clouds can produce up to 500 dots per square meter with a vertical elevation accuracy of 2 to 3 centimeters. Thanks to the low-altitude flying nature of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drone pilots have recently enabled an extraordinary density jump in aerial lidar. While it competes with traditional stereophotogrammetry for generating cutting lines (creating 3D polylines to represent elements such as curbs, retaining walls, and bridges), NV5 has just started dedicating itself to everything related to 3D lidar. This is because being able to see under vegetation and generate so many points on the ground has been an enormous advantage for the company, according to Fraser.
After collecting data in the field, an accredited team of lidar data scientists processes it back at headquarters and produces a wide range of maps and models. Routescene's lidar UAV system has an integrated solid-state drive capable of storing more than 13 hours of data - more than enough for a full day in the field. This system explains the best use cases for lidar UAVs, how data accuracy is guaranteed when capturing drone-based lidar, why lidar and high-resolution images are complementary technologies, and new market opportunities for bathymetric lidar. For those looking for an efficient way to collect data quickly and accurately, using a lidar UAV is an ideal solution. It offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods that can take months or even years to complete. With its light detection and range sensors providing geospatial accuracy and fidelity, you can be sure that you are getting accurate results in a fraction of the time. Whether you are looking for detailed mapping information or just need some basic data collection done quickly, using a lidar UAV is an excellent choice.
With its ability to capture high-resolution images and generate hundreds of points per square meter with vertical elevation accuracy of 2-3 centimeters, you can be sure that you are getting accurate results in no time.
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