Drone Photogrammetry and 3D Mapping

What is 3D Mapping?

3D mapping typically refers to the generation of a digital twin of a real world thing, be it a handheld object, a build/structure or a large piece of land. It is typically generated using either Photogrammetry but it can also be done using Lidar. Once generated a near photo realistic dimensionally accurate model can be then viewed assessed and manipulated in most any computer or handheld device. Also known as a digital twin or 3D modelling users can analyse these digital representations of objects in three dimensions.

The major advantage to this form of data presentation is the context it brings to the data. Every feature and defect is clearly seen within the larger context of the object. This makes it much more intuitive and efficient to work with with the data. This technique offers an up-to-date and comprehensive method of information collecting and visualisation. WHat we say here is "with 3D mapping you can bring the asset to the people instead of bringing the people to the asset". This means instead of ten different site visits by various parties there only needs ot be one visit thenall the rest cna be done in the office.

What is a confined space?

A confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed area that is not intended for human occupancy and has limited means of entry and exit. Confined spaces can pose significant risks to workers, including lack of oxygen, toxic fumes, and physical hazards such as pinch points or moving parts. Examples of confined spaces include tanks, vessels, sewers, boilers, and storage bins. Entry into a confined space requires a high level of safety precautions, including hazard identification, ventilation, personal protective equipment, and a permit system. Proper training, equipment, and procedures are essential to ensure the safety of workers in confined spaces. More about confined space...

The use of dedicated confined space drones has significantly reduced the cost and risk associated with many confined space operations.

What is LIDAR?

Lidar drone mapping is the use of drones equipped with Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar) technology to create high-resolution 3D maps of terrain, buildings, and other objects. The drone emits laser beams that bounce off objects and return to the drone's sensors, creating a detailed point cloud of the object or terrain. The resulting data can be used in a variety of applications, including urban planning, construction, and environmental monitoring. Lidar drone mapping is faster and more accurate than traditional surveying methods and can cover a larger area with greater detail in less time, making it an increasingly popular tool for mapping and surveying professionals. More about LIDAR...

What is optical zoom?

Optical zoom is a feature found in cameras that allows you to change the focal length of the lens, which in turn magnifies the image. Unlike digital zoom, which simply enlarges the pixels of an image, optical zoom physically moves the lens elements to zoom in or out, resulting in a higher-quality, more detailed image.

Optical zoom is better than digital zoom for several reasons. Firstly, optical zoom maintains the image quality and sharpness because it captures more detail from the subject. In contrast, digital zoom often results in a pixelated, blurry image because it enlarges the existing pixels of an image, which degrades the quality.

Secondly, optical zoom allows you to get closer to your subject without physically moving closer, which can be useful in situations where you cannot or do not want to approach your subject closely. This can be especially helpful for wildlife photography or for taking photos of events from a distance.

Overall, optical zoom is a valuable feature that can help you capture high-quality, detailed images from a distance, making it a must-have for many photographers.

What is Photogrammetry?

Photogrammetry is a technique that involves the use of photographs to measure and extract three-dimensional information about an object or scene. It involves taking multiple photographs of an object or area from different angles and then using software to analyze the images and create a 3D model. The process involves identifying common points on the photographs and using these points to triangulate the location of the object in three-dimensional space.

Photogrammetry has many applications in various fields, such as surveying, architecture, engineering, and mapping. It is used to create accurate and detailed maps, models of buildings and landscapes, and to measure distances and volumes. In archaeology, photogrammetry is used to create 3D models of ancient artifacts and structures, allowing researchers to study and analyze them in detail without risking damage to the original objects. It is also used in cinematography to create special effects and computer-generated imagery. With the advancement of technology, photogrammetry has become a powerful tool for capturing and analysing complex visual data.

What is thermal imaging?

Drone-based thermal imaging is a technology that utilizes unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with thermal cameras to capture high-resolution thermal images of various objects or areas. This technology allows for the detection and measurement of temperature variations in a scene, enabling the identification of heat signatures of objects and their surroundings.

Drone-based thermal imaging can be used in a variety of applications, including search and rescue operations, inspection of power lines, pipelines, and other infrastructure, monitoring of wildlife, and identifying energy inefficiencies in buildings. The technology can detect temperature differences as small as 0.1°C, making it a valuable tool for detecting hotspots and identifying potential hazards.

In operation, the drone is flown over the area of interest, capturing thermal images of the scene. The images are then processed using specialized software that converts the temperature data into visible images that can be analyzed and interpreted. The resulting images can show temperature variations in a range of colors, with red and yellow indicating hot spots, and blue and green indicating cooler areas.

Overall, drone-based thermal imaging is a powerful technology that provides accurate, non-invasive, and efficient data for various applications. Its ability to provide high-resolution thermal imagery from a safe distance makes it a valuable tool for numerous industries and professionals. More about thermal imaging...

What is a UAV/UAS/Drone?

UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle): UAV is the technical term for a drone. It refers to any aircraft that can be operated without a human pilot on board.

UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System): UAS encompasses not just the drone itself (UAV) but also the associated ground control station, communication systems, and any additional equipment required for its operation.

What is Ultra High Definition?

UHD or Ultra High Definition signifies that a camera's resolution is 3840x2160 pixels. This is exactly four time higher than high definition cameras (1920x1080 pixels), and so UHD is often also know as 4K. More about drone photography...