Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are being used to change the way data are collected for land surveying. By utilizing sensors that provide high-resolution images or light detection and ranging (LiDAR), or both, on small UAS, the systems enable the collection of highly accurate data with a high density of data points collected. By utilizing photogrammetric and LiDAR point clouds, which are very dense sets of data that represent three-dimensional (3D) objects in space when collected via UAS in land surveying, more data can be collected in less time. The improved data collection capability can save costs while increasing productivity, not only by providing a better product, but also by preventing return visits to a site to collect additional data. This tech brief provides basic knowledge on the best uses to achieve the desired results when using UAS for surveying. Topics include: surveying tools, rotorcraft versus fixed-wing UAS, global positioning system (GPS) equipment, ground control points, flight planning, and photogrammetry point cloud versus LiDAR point cloud.
In GNSS-degraded environments, whether the degrada6on is naturally occurring (e.g., in deep urban canyons) or inten6onal (e.g., in the presence of a j...
Concrete/corrugated metal culverts (straight, 50-150 ft long, 12" -48" diameter) are currently inspected visually and less frequently with ground robo...
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