Introduction To UAV Photogrammetry And Lidar Mapping Basics

Using UAVs for photogrammetry and aerial LiDar mapping

UAV lidar and photogrammetry imaging applications are increasing rapidly. This is not surprising as using GPS enabled UAVs for aerial surveying is very cost effective in comparison to hiring an aircraft with photogrammetry equipment.  

Because UAVs are relatively inexpensive, organisations will have their own UAV fleet, allowing for rapid surveys over large land areas and infrastructure projects where required. 

With GPS equipped drones, digital cameras and powerful computers, surveys have an accuracy right down to 1 centimeter.

This post takes an overall look at this drone mapping technology. We also take a quick view at the sectors benefiting from using UAVs for photogrammetry and lidar mapping.  We also look at some of the best mapping drones on the market along with the compatible software.

Another closely related sector is using LiDAR sensors mounted onto drones.  It’s another growing sector and you can read further regarding drone LiDAR use here. 

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DJI Inspire 1 Drone Review Including Zenmuse Camera Options

DJI Inspire 1 Design, Gimbal and Camera Review

This updated DJI Inspire 1 drone review takes a close look at the features, design, gimbal and camera options on both the Inspire Standard and Professional models.

The Inspire 1 has entered new territory in drone innovation, sleek design and patented motor and gimbal engineering.  The Inspire 1 drone is very versatile with various cameras and sensors options.

In this Inspire 1 review, we take a full look at its design, intelligent flight modes, gimbals and many camera options, along with a number of top Inspire 1 videos.  We answer the many frequently asked questions such as the Inspire 1 range, distance, max height, altitude, frequency, sensors, transmission, WiFi, gimbal, camera and much more.

The DJI Inspire 1 is very close to the perfect quadcopter. The Inspire 1 allows anyone to create great aerial photography and filming shots. There are a number of cameras which can be fitted to the Inspire 1.

The latest camera is the Zenmuse Z3 which is the first integrated aerial zoom camera optimized for still photography. Being able to detach the gimbal on the Inspire 1 allows this drone to be used for more than just aerial filming.

For example, the Inspire 1 Pro comes with the Zenmuse X5 gimbal and 4k micro four thirds camera. This Zenmuse X5 gimbal can be removed and the new Zenmuse XT thermal imaging sensor can be attached giving the Inspire 1 real flexibility to provide solutions in many different sectors.

Fire Departments use drones to get an overall view of the area where they are battling a blaze whether it is a building or a forest.   They are also using thermal vision cameras to get information on the heat of a fire or the heat from a fire which has just been put out.

Or, how about attaching the latest Parrot Sequoia multispectral sensor for farming allowing the Inspire 1 to capture both visible and invisible images of crops, vegetation and ground cover.

The Inspire 1 is designed with adaptability in mind.

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Walkera Technology Top Racing Drones And Aerial Filming UAVs

Walkera produce top aerial and racing drones

Walkera Technology is one of the top companies for professional aerial and racing drones not just in China, but globally.  Walkera have been very successful in the rc model toys since 1994 with over 50 helicopters and airplanes in their product range.

They have successfully transitioned to become a world class manufacturer of highly innovative and patented quadcopters and multirotors.

Walkera have 2 very strong competencies.  The 1st is their ability to design, engineer and develop new patented aircraft having a very wide range of drones and remote control toys.  Their 2nd strong ability is in the area of mold proficiency in which they use only the highest of precision equipment.

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Top 3DR X8 Quadcopter For Mapping And Aerial Filming

3DR Robotics X8-M Quadcopter For 3D Mapping

The 3DR X8 quadcopter range is without doubt top notch. In this X8 quadcopter review, we look at this powerful, reliable and easy to fly drone along with its options and uses.  We review both the X8+ for aerial photography, the X8-M for mapping and the Mission Planner software.

What the X8 quadcopter gives you in abundance, is options in its use. It is an autonomous drone which can take off, fly the path you have programmed in and land again.  3DR who are at the forefront in drone innovation have created a very robust platform for both aerial filming with the X8+ or creating sophisticated 3D maps and models with the X8-M quadcopter.

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