A point cloud is a collection of data points in a three-dimensional coordinate system. In the context of drone surveys of construction sites, a point cloud is generated by capturing a large number of individual points in space using various sensors, such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) or photogrammetry, mounted on a drone.
Using point clouds in drone surveys enhances the efficiency and accuracy of construction site assessments, allowing for more informed decision-making and streamlined project management.
- Accurate As-built documentation for all phases of construction
- Enhanced collaboration, communication, visualisation & verification
- Save time and money
- Capture real-world topography
- Expedite completion
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)
LiDAR-equipped drones emit laser beams towards the ground and measure the time it takes for the laser pulses to return.
Photogrammetry
Drones equipped with cameras capture high-resolution images of the construction site from various angles.
The collected data points, whether obtained through LiDAR or photogrammetry, are then processed to extract three-dimensional information and organised into a point cloud.
Each point in the cloud represents a specific location in the surveyed area and is defined by its X, Y, and Z coordinates. Additional attributes like colour, intensity, and reflectance may also be associated with each point.
The resulting point cloud is visualised using specialist software, providing a detailed and accurate representation of the surveyed construction site.
Construction professionals, architects, and engineers can use the point cloud data for various purposes, including site analysis, design validation, progress monitoring, and clash detection.
Site Planning
Point clouds offer a comprehensive view of the construction site, aiding in the planning and design phases.
Progress Monitoring
By comparing point clouds captured at different times, stakeholders can monitor construction progress and identify any deviations from the original plans.
As-Built Documentation
The point cloud can serve as a detailed record of the as-built conditions, providing an accurate representation of the constructed environment.
I have worked with DRONE SURVEYING for some years now, from checking a boundary of new land to auditing earthworks. The use of drones on our sites is now standard; we monitor progress and calculate cut and fill via the online software as our sites progress.
The use of regular mass data collection and the latest drone technology and practises will without doubt save us time and money on our sites.
We use DRONE SURVEYING on all of our sites to support our cut and fill strategy, with regular surveys and their cutting-edge software, we are able to manage our sites much more effectively.
Having now worked with DRONE SURVEYING engineering solutions for a number of years, their services have proven to be invaluable conducting our volumetric surveys, progress videos and cut and fill support. The drone data platform has allowed us to get the best from the data with full support and training provided from the DS team
The drone data helps us to make quicker and smarter key decisions to ensure we have budget and time control on our projects. Having monthly surveys on our sites ensures we keep full control of all earth movements.
Using aerial imagery from drone surveys helps us anticipate errors or mistakes in the next stage of development instead of waiting for work to start on the ground. This proactive approach has saved us hundreds of thousands of pounds; a reactive approach can be costly