Geomatics services rely on a number of technologies.
As the newer technologies undergo innovation and development, the area of geomatics adapts itself to the new technology. These tools have been imperative in developing and improving the geomatic processes in projects around the world.
With their ability to provide accurate, timely, and cost-effective insights towards the final results, these services have become integral to getting the right results from a geomatics survey.
One such technology is LiDAR or Light Detection and Ranging. Even though LiDAR technology has been in existence since the 1960s, it was only in the 1980s that it got its due recognition.
So, let us understand how LiDAR’s deployment in geomatics services can help businesses and projects around the world to improve their project development efficiency and effectiveness.
What is LiDAR?
LiDAR is a technology that uses a pulsed laser to calculate an object’s variable distances from the earth’s surface. These light pulses are combined with the information collected by the airborne system which produces accurate 3D imagery of the earth’s surface and the target object.
The LiDAR system consists of three major components, including- a scanner, laser, and a GPS receiver. Various organizations around the world deploy LiDAR and in fact utilize airplanes and helicopters to collect LiDAR data effectively. There are two broad types of LiDAR technologies available- airborne LiDAR and terrestrial LiDAR.
Laser scanning technology conducts a survey by using a laser and determining distance to objects, detecting surfaces, structures, and any other objects. LiDAR’s data collection abilities are pretty fast and efficient, considering a large amount of data is collected in a concise span of time.
LiDAR and Geomatics Services
Traditionally, land surveying has used instruments and technologies with direct contact from the Earth’s surface. However, LiDAR is a type of technology that collects 3D data of ground using laser-based equipment.
With both ground and aerial LiDAR options available, it offers multiple options in the geomatics industry. The technology uses laser beams to produce 3D models or other maps. With greater innovation in laser scanning technology, LiDAR units can be mounted on a Mobile Mapping method providing flexibility.
Vehicles and even backpacks can be used to map a region or area. Mobile Mapping units use the latest in the LiDAR technology, with scanners and devices able to collect 1 million points per second.
The data from the scanned high-definition survey image can then be processed with visualization and modeling software available to properly present the scanned surface. It is then used by a wide variety of professionals and team members, including architects, civil engineers, CAD designers, planners, universities, insurance companies, etc.
Interestingly, LiDAR surveys from the air can survey very large areas in a short span of time. Meanwhile, the high-definition surveying (HDS) equipment mounted on the survey tripods is operated similarly to a robotic total station which is moved.
Conclusion
LiDAR, just like various other technologies in the field of geomatics services, has been able to improve how the geomatic industry and processes operate.
With the newer developments in technologies and tools, there is a bright scope for geomatics services to gather pace and get into the mainstream.
The benefits of geomatics, as an area of service, are endless. So, if you are a project or a business that’s looking to construct or develop a project, Core Geomatics is your place to be at.
Reach out to them today for more details, only on CoreGeomatics.com
