Point clouds and terrain models for design, construction and volume calculations
With a laser scanner mounted on a drone, we create detailed and accurate point clouds that provide data for maps, planning and surveying. The result is useful for design and construction work, as well as for volume calculations.
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Describe the area, the data you need and whether you have a KML file, polygon, drawing or other map data that can be used for planning.
When is laser scanning a good choice?
Drone-based laser scanning is a good choice when you need mapping, a 3D model or a terrain model of a larger area. Unlike photogrammetry, which requires daylight and sharp images, laser scanning can also be carried out in darkness. Because light conditions do not affect the result, scanning can be performed at any time of day.
Because the laser pulses penetrate branches and foliage, it is possible to create an accurate terrain model even beneath trees and other vegetation.
If you mainly need visual imagery, orthophotos or documentation of a structure, images for visualization and inspection may be a better setup.
For projects where laser scanning is part of method development or advanced data collection, our experience with drones for research and development can also be relevant.
Method: how the work is carried out
- Request and customer data: We receive your request, including the relevant area in the form of, for example, a KML file or a polygon drawn on a map image, and then return with a cost proposal.
- Preparations: We carry out a risk analysis and other site-specific flight preparations.
- Data collection: After dialogue with the customer, laser scanning is carried out when weather and other site-specific conditions are favourable.
- Delivery: We deliver the laser scanning result to you as a LAS file.
Delivery:
After the completed scanning, you’ll get a LAS file with GCPs.
Why use drones?
Laser scanning with drones is more time-efficient than ground-based scanning and generates a higher-resolution point cloud than scanning from manned aircraft. Since the laser scanning is carried out from the air, ongoing operations in the area are not affected.
Conditions and limitations
Although we hold generic authorisation that permits drone-based laser scanning throughout Sweden, we need clearance from air traffic control when flying near active airports and helipads. That cooperation usually works well, but in these areas it can mean that preparation time becomes somewhat longer depending on the procedures of the specific airport.
With this type of laser scanner (red laser), it is not possible to create point clouds of water, as the water absorbs the laser pulses. This means that water-covered surfaces in the scanned area will lack data.
Experience, permits and quality
Gerdes Solutions holds flight authorisations that allow drone-based laser scanning even in city centres. To guarantee the highest possible level of safety, the drones we use for these assignments are equipped with parachutes that meet the requirements of our EU-wide aviation safety regulations. We also always carry out careful site-specific risk analyses and take risk-reducing measures where needed.
To ensure high quality and precision in the result, we use laser scanners and software from YellowScan.
Frequently asked questions
What resolution does the point cloud have?
We deliver point clouds with a minimum of 300 points per square metre, but when needed we can fly at lower speed and altitude, which increases point density further.
How accurate is the data?
The choice of equipment is adapted to the customer’s needs. The laser data we can deliver has accuracy and precision of 1-4 cm.
When is laser scanning better than photogrammetry?
Unlike photogrammetry, laser scanning can be used to create an accurate terrain model even beneath trees and other vegetation. Post-processing is significantly faster for laser scanning than for photogrammetry, which is especially beneficial for large areas. In some cases, a combination of laser scanning and photogrammetric image collection is the best way to achieve the desired result.
Does a laser scanner register personal data?
A laser scanner only registers distances and surfaces. At the distance used for drone-based laser scanning, no identifiable personal data is recorded.
Free quote for drone-based laser scanning
Send us the area, purpose and desired delivery format, and we will assess flight conditions, method and cost.