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– FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS –
Geospatial surveying is accomplished through the use of advanced technologies including Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), photogrammetry, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and high accuracy inertial measurement units to collect large amounts of topographic mapping data very quickly. Bearing Tree surveyors are experts in this discipline.
Some states require a licensed surveyor to oversee any type of topographic mapping. Even in states where it’s not a legal requirement, many clients choose to use licensed surveyors – like those you’ll find at Bearing Tree – for geospatial services, since surveyors are experts in key elements of Geospatial Mapping, such as geodesy, map projections, topographic mapping, etc.
Your project’s scope (shape and size), obstructions, accuracy and density specifications, and timeline are all factors that affect the which tools and approaches are best. Get in touch with us. We’ll be happy to discuss specifics with you.
The density and accuracy of points we collect with our aerial lidar sensors are of much higher resolution than with traditional topographic mapping. These millions of points display a surface with much more detail, and that’s closer to reality than the typical 50’ or 100’ topographic grid. Plus, working from the air, we can map, process and deliver large areas in just days, while it may take thousands of hours to map the same area with GNSS or total stations. Our aerial lidar sensors can also accurately map the ground under trees where photogrammetry or GNSS may not work.
UAVs or drones are all the rage right now, and they certainly play a part in surveying and mapping. But, when compared to manned planes or helicopters, they also have some distinct disadvantages including:
• Very strict airspace and line-of-sight restrictions. However, a pilot – in control of an aircraft and in communication with air traffic control – can map almost anywhere.
• Very short flight times before the UAV needs to be landed for fresh batteries.
• Reduced accuracy and data quality. The size, weight, and quality of the sensors that can be mounted on drone just can’t compare to the systems designed for manned aircraft.
• Much smaller scope. The area that can be acquired by a UAV system is a tiny fraction of what’s available via an airplane- or helicopter-based system.
• Small payload capacity. Most drone-based systems can only offer photography or photogrammetry due to size and weight restrictions on what the vehicle can safely carry.
We not only use manned aircraft – we own them, along with all the related cameras and equipment. We currently fly a twin-engine Piper Turbo Aztec and a single-engine Cessna TU206 out of Wiley Post Airport in Oklahoma City, OK.
Not as expensive as you might think. Because the acquisition is done so quickly compared to any other method, you could realize substantial savings. Plus, our speed and efficiency not only saves you money but ensures that you receive your deliverables as quickly as possible.
Short answer? Both. It depends on the project. All our systems co-collect imagery and LiDAR at the same time, and the combination of the two platforms offers you huge benefits over LiDAR or imagery alone.
7100 Broadway Extension
Oklahoma City, OK 73116