Aerial LiDAR offers numerous advantages, when compared to both conventional ground-based survey and aerial photogrammetry

Speed of survey

Aerial LiDAR acquisition and processing is one of the fastest ways of performing a topographical survey. Typical progress rates for linear infrastructure routes, such as electricity transmission lines or highways, are 50 – 100 miles (80 – 160 km) per day.

High resolution

Greater than 40 LiDAR points per square metre can be captured by an aerial LiDAR system. For terrain modeling, this ensures that even the most subtle topographic variations will be recorded. For as-built surveys, assets are recorded in high definition. During consultation, Network Mapping will suggest a resolution suitable for your project requirements. During the course of all projects we establish conventionally surveyed ground control sites and use these to produce an accuracy statement for the project, signed off by a licensed surveyor.

Accuracy

Our aerial survey acquisition parameters and ground-based differential control will be tailored to meet your accuracy requirements.

Cost

LiDAR surveys can potentially provide significant cost savings when compared to traditional forms of topographical survey. Aside from the cost of the survey, typically our clients report that the output enables them to reduce end-to-end project costs, through the ability to expedite project timescales and ensure efficiencies in design.

Canopy Penetration

One of the most significant features of LiDAR is multi-pulse sensing, whereby the first returned pulse indicates the highest point, and the last pulse denotes the lowest survey measurement. There may also be multiple mid pulses (up to 2). As a result, LiDAR has the ability to “see” through vegetation. This means that engineering designs will be based on the true ground surface, rather than the tops of vegetation.