Aerial surveys are a technique of collecting digital imagery or geomatics by the use of airplanes, drones, UAVs, helicopters or other unmanned aerial systems. Most common forms of data collected are topographical, lidar, optical imaging, radio detection and remote sensing. With the advent of advanced computer technology, these techniques can be performed by vehicles equipped with sensors to gather the data. These days most major industries employ aerial systems for taking aerial photographs and other geophysical information. Some of them use the techniques for surveillance. There are different types of uses of Drone Survey & mapping.
Surveys generally involves the observation and mapping of remote areas that cannot be accessed by people on foot or even with the help of a robot. For example many organisations hire the services of a drone to take surveys over their sites and monitor the progress of the work. This helps them to monitor the productivity of their workers. Other large scale surveys are taken to survey large areas for construction purposes. These Surveys usually involve the detection of faults in infrastructure like pipelines, dams, power stations, bridges and the like. The reason for such large scale surveys is to prevent the discovery of the faults which could cost the company millions of dollars.
Before drone surveys were developed, it was necessary to employ the services of an army which would map the place using the terrain to locate the fault. However, the whole process was time consuming and costly. However, with the developments in the field of software and applications for the remote control of UAVs (unmanned Aerial Vehicles), it became possible to carry out drone surveys and other mapping operations from the comfort of the base. Now with the advancement of new software companies are able to perform drone surveys and map the base without physically going to the site. This enables one to save time and money.
It is also necessary to know about the laws of the land where you want to conduct the drone survey. Some of the countries do not allow the operation of UAVs or sell them to the local community. So it is better to check these laws beforehand. In addition, before going ahead with the drone survey it is necessary to contact the local authorities and inform them about your intentions. They might give you the go signal to start the operation.
The importance of drone surveys and mapping can never be underestimated. It is important to know about the areas where there are no utilities and the like. This is because the area might have potential oil and gas deposits and hence requires exploration prior to laying pipelines or the like. By performing a drone survey and mapping, you will be able to find these deposits and invest in the right manner.
While collecting data for a drone survey, it is important to note any defects in the terrain. It is for this reason that you need a map of the area before you start the operation. Once you are through with the preliminary data, you can proceed with the mapping and determine the best way to map the area without destroying anything.
While doing a drone survey, it is also important to note the topography of the place. This will help you navigate through the terrain and pinpoint the points at which the best route to survey can be made. It is advisable to use a small, lightweight quadcopter for such operations as it is easy to control and does not require a lot of technical skill to operate. A quad copter is also easy to store and requires very little maintenance. If you are not experienced enough to handle such complex operations, you can always take the services of an expert who is well trained in this regard.
Before finalizing the task of mapping and drone photography, it is also important to chalk out a plan of action. Make a collage of the most suitable pictures, take down notes and make a detailed description. These plans are important as they guide you through every step of the operation. Remember to clearly communicate all your expectations to the drone operator. This will ensure that you get what you want from the aerial survey.