LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology is used to produce high-resolution maps and 3D models of the earth’s surface. This technology sends laser pulses to the ground and measures the time it takes for the laser light to bounce back, creating a high-resolution map of the surface. LiDAR surveys are used in a variety of applications, including mapping, archaeology, forestry, and environmental monitoring. Helicopters have proven to be an ideal platform for conducting lidar surveys, due to a number of advantages they offer over other survey methods.
Speed and Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of using helicopters for LiDAR surveys is speed and efficiency. Helicopters can cover large areas in a relatively short amount of time, allowing surveyors to collect data quickly and efficiently. This is particularly important in remote areas or areas with challenging terrain, where access is limited and ground-based survey methods are slow and expensive.
Flexibility
Helicopters are highly flexible and can be flown at different altitudes, speeds, and angles to suit the requirements of a specific aerial survey. This allows surveyors to adjust the parameters of the survey to meet the specific needs of the project, such as capturing data in narrow valleys or over tall buildings.
Access to Remote Areas
Helicopters are ideal for accessing remote areas that are difficult to reach by road or on foot. This makes them an ideal choice for surveying areas with challenging terrain, such as forests, mountains, and wetlands. In addition, helicopters can be equipped with specialized sensors, such as high-resolution cameras, to provide additional data for the survey.
Safe and Cost-Effective
Conducting LiDAR surveys from a helicopter is often safer and more cost-effective than using ground-based survey methods. This is because helicopters can be flown at a safe altitude, avoiding obstacles and hazards on the ground. In addition, the cost of operating a helicopter is often lower than the cost of deploying ground-based survey teams, especially in remote areas.
High-Resolution Data
LiDAR surveys conducted from a helicopter produce high-resolution data that can be used to create accurate maps and 3D models of the earth’s surface. The high-resolution data collected from a helicopter allows surveyors to capture fine details and variations in the surface, such as trees, buildings, and other structures. This makes the data highly valuable for a wide range of applications, such as planning, urban design, and environmental monitoring.
Multiple Surveys in One Flight
Helicopters can be equipped with multiple sensors and cameras, allowing surveyors to collect data from multiple surveys in one flight. This not only increases the efficiency of the survey but also provides additional data that can be used to validate and cross-check the LiDAR data. For example, the helicopter can be equipped with a high-resolution camera to capture images of the surface, which can be used to validate the lidar data and ensure accuracy.
Time Savings
Conducting LiDAR surveys from a helicopter can save time compared to ground-based survey methods. This is because helicopters can cover large areas in a relatively short amount of time, reducing the time it takes to collect data and complete the survey. In addition, the speed and efficiency of the survey can reduce the overall cost of the project, as less time is spent collecting data and preparing maps.
In conclusion, the use of helicopters for LiDAR surveys offers a number of advantages over other survey methods. The speed and efficiency of the survey, combined with the ability to access remote areas, produce high-resolution data, and save time, make helicopters an ideal platform for conducting aerial LiDAR surveys.
Fair Lifts has a nationwide network of helicopters and pilots that are ready to tackle your LiDAR survey today. Give one of our expert project managers a call today to get a fast, free quote.