Aerial Photogrammetry
The advent of sUAS (small Unmanned Aerial Systems) drones has indisputably revolutionized the mapping field in recent years. Previously, the process of creating detailed and accurate maps required considerable resources, time, and manpower, often involving manned aircraft or ground crews. However, the integration of sUAS drones has transformed mapping into a more efficient, accessible, and cost-effective practice. These drones, equipped with advanced sensors, RTK GPS and high-resolution cameras, can capture precise images and data from various altitudes, enabling land surveyors to create highly detailed and accurate maps with the highest level of detail and accuracy. At Geospatial Applications we view photogrammetry as both an art and a science and have a comprehensive methodology which allows us to generate the most accurate and precise maps.
Precise Mission Planning
RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) drones with terrain-following capabilities offer several advantages when operating in mountainous terrain. These drones use RTK technology to enhance the accuracy of their GPS positioning, while terrain-following algorithms help maintain a consistent altitude above the ground, even in areas with significant elevation changes. By maintaining a consistent altitude above the ground, RTK drones with terrain-following capabilities can capture more uniform data, leading to higher-quality maps and images. This is particularly beneficial when generating topographic maps or orthomosaics, where consistent image resolution and accurate elevation data are crucial.
Matrice 300 RTK
The Matrice 300 RTK drone is designed to deliver unparalleled stability, reliability, and flight endurance. Its robust platform can withstand challenging environmental conditions and maintain a consistent flight altitude, ensuring the consistent capture of high-quality images. When paired with the Zenmuse P1 45-megapixel photogrammetric camera, the system produces incredibly detailed and accurate aerial imagery that is essential for generating precise geospatial data.
Nadir and Oblique Images
The image to the right shows an initial sparse point cloud with tie points and oblique and nadir images. By combining both oblique and nadir images in photogrammetry and point cloud generation offers several advantages, leading to more accurate and comprehensive 3D models. Nadir images, taken directly from above, provide a clear and consistent view of the ground, which is ideal for generating precise orthomosaics and measuring distances. Oblique images, captured at an angle, offer valuable perspective on vertical surfaces and complex structures, such as building facades and bridges, which are not as easily represented in nadir images. By integrating both types of images, the resulting point clouds and 3D models are more detailed and complete, capturing all aspects of the terrain and structures from multiple viewpoints. This enriched dataset ensures higher accuracy in measurements, improved visualization, and a more comprehensive understanding of the area, which is essential for applications such as urban planning, construction, and infrastructure management.
Survey Accurate Orthomosaics
By utilizing best practices we are able to create survey accurate orthomosaic images which can be utilized in the design phase of projects. Our images typically have a ground sample distance of 7mm to 1.2cm per pixel. This is ultra high resolution imagery which has applications in the engineering, mapping and environmental disciplines.
Ground Control
Utilizing Ground Control Points (GCPs) in photogrammetry, even when using an RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) drone, provides several benefits, including improved accuracy and reliability of the resulting maps and models. GCPs serve as reference points for drone-acquired images, ensuring more accurate alignment and georeferencing. This additional layer of ground truthing validates the drone's positioning data and helps maintain consistency across multiple datasets or when capturing data over time. GCPs also improve performance in challenging environments, such as areas with poor satellite reception or complex topography. Furthermore, by incorporating GCPs, drone-acquired data can be seamlessly integrated with data obtained through traditional survey methods, resulting in more comprehensive and accurate geospatial products.
Ground Truthing
We take immense pride in ground truthing our models to ensure the highest levels of accuracy and precision. By validating the data obtained from remote sensing techniques, such as drone-based photogrammetry or LiDAR, against real-world measurements, we are able to confirm the reliability and integrity of our 3D models and maps. This meticulous approach to quality control allows us to deliver superior results to our clients, instilling confidence in the data we provide and its applicability in various industries. Our unwavering commitment to quality assurance reflects our dedication to excellence and our determination to uphold the highest standards in our work, enabling us to create meaningful and trustworthy geospatial data.