Drone LiDAR Octo-Quad Rural Distribution

Using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform for data collection sensors and high-resolution cameras provides a vantage point for the most complete information and imagery available.

UAV data collection is not subject to the same access limitations as ground-based data collection. Data that once took days to obtain through traditional survey and inventory methods can be gathered in a matter of hours – with greater accuracy and far more detail!

UAV Sensors

LiDAR

• 700,000 measurements/second
• Highly accurate 3D data for any measurement or analytical need
• For tough or large surveying areas, under trees, along bodies of water

FLIR Infrared

• Radiometric data for post-processing
• Geotagged thermal inspections
• Infrared mosaics of buildings

4K Video

• Inspections
• Live Viewing

High Resolution Still Cameras

• Geotagged for inspections
• Mosaics

Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)

• Vegetation analysis and vegetation management
• Creating mosaics and colorizing LiDAR

In most cases, all it takes is one flight to capture the data as the sensors can collect data simultaneously. This creates a series of data that can be used for many different applications. For more information on our unmanned aerial vehicle services click here.

Drone LiDAR Tree Count

Our team is skilled at determining the which data collection method will deliver the most accurate product at the lowest cost to our clients.

Data collection methods:

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (Drone)
• Terrestrial LiDAR (Vehicular/Pedestrian)
• Stationary LiDAR

With drone surveying, McCord Engineering can collect high-density LiDAR data used to create a 3D model.

Data can be delivered to you in the form of topographical maps, point clouds, cross sections and mosaics, and in a variety of file formats. This is especially helpful in hard-to-reach locations.

Workflow:

1. Define Job Area (KMZ files)
2. Define Deliverables
   1. Point cloud
      

      McCord Geospatial Drone LiDAR

   2. DTM
   3. Mosaic
   4. Topography
   5. Cross-Sections
3. Confirm Property Permissions
4. Check for COA Requirements
5. Plan Mission
6. Set Ground Control
7. Fly Property
8. Process Data
9. Deliverables
10. **Request Feedback to Refine Deliverables

We use high-resolution digital cameras for photogrammetry and have a high-quality LiDAR. Either of these technologies can provide accurate 3D measurements of the surroundings you need mapped.

When we are finished, you will receive a full map, measurements of objects specified, and any files we created in collecting your data.

Call us for more information and a demo of our data.

Stages of LiDAR Data Analysis

1. Low-cost data collection
2. High-density point clouds
3. Drone point clouds allow for:
   • All-inclusive orthomosaic of work area
   • Fewer manual surveying points
   • Precise measure of specific points

In addition, drone data allows for:

1. Topographical mapping
2. Watershed & flood analysis
3. More precise line work for engineers

Colorized LiDAR from Topographical Survey

Drone surveying flyovers can help surveyors more precisely measure elements that conventional surveying wouldn’t pick up without many hours of field labor. This increased efficiency can reduce costs spent on equipment and man-hours.

Colorized LiDAR Golf Course

Drone LiDAR strengths?

We can fly over hard-to-reach locations and areas of heavy road traffic. We can help small companies obtain large projects and any company can use us for smaller areas. We can also penetrate heavy tree canopies, finding ground points in otherwise impossible to reach locations.

Drone LiDAR weaknesses?

Our LiDAR doesn’t penetrate water and it can’t map items buried underground.

What kind of density can we produce?

We collect 700,000 shots/sec. That produces a point density of 500 points per square meter, or 50 points per square foot.

What is our accuracy?

We have a 2 cm horizontal and 5 cm vertical accuracy. Total volumetric accuracy is within 3%.

How do you keep the accuracy?

With LiDAR or photogrammetry, we use ground control points for absolute point cloud positioning (we make sure the data matches your specs).

How do you check accuracy?

In addition to ground control points, we use visual landmarks and other known “check points” to verify accuracy within the point cloud.  

Are Drones legal to use in commercial business?

The rules relative to drones in commercial business are changing on a regular basis. As of the start of 2017, you can operate drones for business if you have:

1. An FAA Exemption 333 or Part 107 license
2. A registered “N-numbered” aircraft
3. Appropriate COA, certificate of authorization for your flying location
4. Permission from the owner or authorized agent of the property

Drones can be operated in most locations with what is called a “Blanket COA”. This COA is part of the 107 license. Some areas, such as close to airports require special authorization from the FAA. This authorization can take from a few days to a few weeks depending on the specific location.

There are many more details relating to the legal and safe operation of drones in US Airspace. We can provide more details upon request. The most important detail is it is completely legal to operate when you follow the appropriate FAA regulations.

Safety?

Our UAV partners operate with an authorized pilot and an observer. If the job warrants, we add extra crew members to keep needed areas clear and safe for flight.

The aircraft is equipped with several safety features in the case of technical issues during a mission.

McCord Data Collection Services – Safety and Volumetrics

We can supply further details upon request.

Liability?

MEI carries at least $2 million in liability insurance. If your company requires a specific level of insurance coverage we can make sure to match or exceed that level before starting work.