What is a Drone Survey?
A drone survey can refer to any type of survey where data collection is carried out using an unmanned aerial system (UAS). A drone can be used to capture many kinds of survey data depending on payload and client requirements. A survey may be conducted exclusively using UAS, or it can supplement other methods, for example when capturing data on hard-to-reach roof spaces to supplement a measured building survey.
When do I need a Drone Survey?
Use of an UAS is appropriate in many situations. Drones excel in covering large areas quickly, and potentially hazardous areas safely. For example it may be more efficient to use an UAS to gather data for a topographical survey covering large areas of steep, inaccessible terrain, or to survey a confined space that would be unsafe for survey personnel to enter. A drone may be employed to collect data for:
- Volumetric and stockpile surveys
- Topographical surveys
- 3D mapping
- Roof surveys
- Photogrammetry
- 3D building models
- Orthomosaics
- LiDAR surveys and heatmaps
- Construction monitoring
- Confined space surveys
Deliverables:
Due to the versatility of a UAS, deliverables can come in many shapes and sizes and will be dictated by the type of survey the drone is executing and the payload attached. In addition to traditional deliverables, drones can also provide photo and video records. Output formats include, but are not limited to:
- .dwg
- Revit files
- 3D mesh
- Heat maps
- Orthomosaics
