Surveying Using Drones

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What equipment is required for surveying using drones?

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A drone with a GPS system and a high-resolution camera for photogrammetry or a LiDAR sensor to capture precise elevation details.

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What permissions are needed for drone surveying?

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Permission from Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) if there's a flight restricted zone, permissions from Local Authorities/Local councils for residential/populated areas, landowner’s permission, and sometimes consents from local residences.

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How is the drone's flight path typically set during a survey?

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The flight path is set to cover the entire area in a grid or linear pattern, often using flight planning software for automation.

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What is the level of accuracy for inexpensive drones?

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Inexpensive drones may have an accuracy of only 5m.

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What accuracy can commercial and industrial-grade survey drones achieve?

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They can deliver data accuracy to within 2cm.

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What software is used to process high-resolution images from drone surveys?

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Specialised photogrammetry software is used for high-resolution images, and software like ArcGIS is used for point cloud data.

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What precautions should be taken before a drone survey?

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Ensure the drone is fully charged, check weather conditions, have experienced individuals handle the operation, and ensure necessary permissions are obtained.

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What are the advantages of using drones for surveying?

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Full site access is not required, it's safer for the operator to be off-site, and the survey can be pre-programmed for efficiency.

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What are the disadvantages of using drones for surveying?

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Challenges include tree cover, weather dependency, need for good drone knowledge, less accuracy compared to total stations, and reliance on permissions and training.