Topographical surface modeling is the process of creating a detailed and accurate digital representation of the Earth's surface using aerial imagery captured by a drone. Drones equipped with specialized sensors and cameras are used to capture Laser data and high-resolution images from multiple angles and altitudes. This data is then processed using advanced software to create a three-dimensional model of the landscape. The process typically involves the following steps:
- Image Acquisition: The drone is launched and flies over the designated area, capturing a series of overlapping images. These images can be captured using RGB cameras or other sensors like LiDAR or thermal cameras, depending on the requirements of the modeling project.
- Image Processing: Once the drone has completed its flight, the collected images are transferred to a computer for processing. Specialized software is used to stitch these images together into a single high-resolution orthomosaic, which is a highly detailed and geospatially accurate aerial map of the area.
- Surface Modeling: After creating the orthomosaic, additional software is used to process the data further and generate a digital surface model (DSM), a digital terrain model, (DTM) or digital elevation model (DEM) depending on the requirements of the client. The DSM is a three-dimensional representation of the Earth's surface, taking into account the elevation of different features on the terrain. The digital terrain model models the terrain accounting for vegetation, structures, and infrastructure. A digital surface model is a direct model of he hard surface of the mapped area, remove vegetation and improvements.
- Data Analysis: These models can be used for various purposes, such as land surveying, urban planning, environmental monitoring, infrastructure development, and more. The models allow for highly accurate measurements of distances, slopes, and volumes, enabling professionals to make informed decisions based on the generated data. This data can be directly imported into most CAD software, allowing for directly actionable data in a very short time.
Raw RGB colorized point cloud of LiDAR capture of a 6 acre project
LiDAR generated DTM and DSM of the project
LiDAR generated data has an accuracy of up to 1in x 2in in low level vegetation and may be as high as 2.5in x 5in in dense vegetation environments. meeting or exceeding survey specifications.
Ortho generated data may have an even higher resolution, in some cases less than 1in.