Drone Land Surveying

 

Defining the Topographical Survey

Topographic maps provide essential spatial information that reduces the risk of costly construction errors due to an inaccurate site assessment. An up-to-date topographical survey creates the relevant data for the best return on investment and future sustainability of the project.

 

What Are Topographical Surveys

A topographical survey is broadly defined as recording the coordinates and elevation (height) data of natural and artificial features within a designated survey area. An elaboration of this definition includes:

Drone Land Surveying

  • The surveyed points are mapped in three dimensions related to the national grid system and datum information. The density of the points recorded depends on the intended use of the survey, but it should also allow for accurate comparison with historical data from previous surveys.

  • Points can be either surveyed for even coverage or feature orientated. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, which the client and surveyor must consider based on the overall purpose of the site survey. A high-density, even coverage survey is possible with drone-based laser scanning but often provides more information than is cost-effectively required for most projects.

  • The elements surveyed always include an accurate demarcation of the survey site, usually based on property boundary lines. Buildings and other structures, watercourses and drainage lines, trees, hedges, and street features can all be surveyed and incorporated on the map. Often adjacent elements are also surveyed, as no parcel of land is isolated, especially in the case of height in relation to boundary (HIRB) calculations.

 

Why Is Topographical Surveying Necessary?

The points surveyed and recorded in three dimensions provide accurate spatial information for the site and allow for the drawing up of spot height maps, contour maps, and complex terrain models. Additional information is often incorporated, such as subsurface features and utilities, site sections compiled using ground-penetrating radar, and notable points in the surrounding vicinity.

  • Accurate topographical surveys provide reliable indications and measurements of the layout and location of features on a site. This information assists architects, engineers and other professionals in planning the cost-effective development of the site, including the placement and design of new buildings, installation of necessary drainage schemes and the environmental impact of the proposed activities on the surrounding area.

  • The registration and filing of topographic surveys allow for a historical record of possible activities in an area, reducing the risk and dangers associated with redevelopment. You can also use comparisons with previous surveys to assess the rate of change of the features on a site due to erosion, which has a real impact on future construction.

  • The spatial information is often used to create detailed 3D models of the proposed development, which provides potential investors with an accurate picture of the future. This data includes both the end-product and the justification of construction expenditures.

Definition Surveying is a vibrant firm of passionate surveyors. We are qualified and experienced in all types of topographical surveying for a diverse range of purposes, from residential plots to large estates and civil construction projects. We work together with clients and other professionals to generate and compile complete surveys of any land piece, incorporating historical data from the archives and information obtained using the latest technology.

Contact us for a consultation about how we can assist you with mapping your next project.

We offer drone land surveying for land development projects involving challenging or steep terrain. Through survey drones, we capture accurate and detailed geospatial data to accelerate and simplify topographic survey results. Following the aerial data collection, our team employs advanced photogrammetry software to deliver a comprehensive set of outputs, including detailed and accurate orthomosaic maps, Digital Surface Models (DSM), Digital Terrain Models (DTM), 3D textured maps, and contour lines maps - depending on the unique requirements of each project.

We guarantee that all legal requirements are addressed for aerial drone surveys.

The Impact Of Aerial Drone Survey In Data Collection

Drone land surveying has transformed the process of geospatial data collection, offering fast and cost-effective solutions for mapping natural and physical features, as well as contours and elevations across sites.

Equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, survey drones capture real-time data which increases the viability of results. The flexibility and accessibility of drone surveying make it particularly advantageous for conducting surveys in large areas with challenging terrain, substantial altitude variations, or the absence of flat surfaces.

Aerial drone surveys allow us to cover hundreds of hectares and capture thousands of measurements in just a few flights - that would traditionally require a week.This not only minimises health and safety risks on site but also enhances the productivity and efficiency of our surveyors.

The data collected by drones can be represented in orthomosaic map, point cloud for distance area and volume measurement, Digital surface models (DSM), Digital terrain model (DTM), contour lines map, 3D textured mesh, etc. We are tech-savvy surveyors in Invercargill; we use high-end surveying drones which enable us to generate highly accurate results with an absolute accuracy down to 1 cm (0.4 in).

Our 3D Surveying Services

Drone surveying saves our valuable time and allows for better data collection and generation of precise 3D models. Through aerial surveys, we are able to map points in three dimensions and align them with the national grid system and datum information for comprehensive spatial understanding. The point density is tailored to the survey's purpose to ensure precise comparisons with historical data from prior surveys.

Our 3D surveying services elevate project planning and execution, providing a meticulous and true-to-life representation of surveyed spaces. We survey several elements and incorporate them on the map. These include accurate demarcation of the survey site, watercourses and drainage lines, trees, hedges, and street features, buildings and other structures.

In many cases, adjacent elements are also surveyed, recognising that no parcel of land exists in isolation, especially when considering height in relation to boundary (HIRB) calculations.

We prepare a detailed 3D survey report with enhanced visualisation capabilities. It enables stakeholders and other people involved in the project to thoroughly analyse surveyed spaces and make better decisions.

Why Choose Definition Surveying for Topographic Surveys

When it comes to topographic data collection, Definition Surveying stands out as the premier choice, offering nationwide coverage coupled with years of invaluable experience. Commissioning your topographic survey with us ensures a multitude of benefits.
  • We use modern survey drones with advanced sensors and photogrammetry software to avoid project delays and ensure fast and accurate results - for both residential land survey and Council infrastructure development surveys.
  • Unwavering commitment to upholding professional quality standards.
  • Embracing an ethos of "always right first time," we instil confidence in the accuracy and reliability of our deliverables.
  • We provide reliable information which has cultivated enduring trust with our clients over the years
  • Seamless delivery of topographical data in various digital formats, ready for integration into a Building Information Modeling (BIM) model, if needed.
  • An efficient and high-quality consultative service tailored to your specific project requirements.
  • Practical and impartial advice from our team of experienced professional surveyors.
  • Customised survey results to meet the unique needs of your project.

Making Our Aerial Surveys Work For You

At Definition Surveying, we're committed to making our aerial surveys a valuable asset for your land development projects, ensuring you have the critical information necessary for optimal planning and execution.

Whether you're a developer, architect, engineer, or part of any industry requiring a digitised 3D representation of the real world, Definition Surveying takes pride in offering 3D surveying services tailored to your needs. Our use of drones in topographic surveys enables us to conduct precise calculations of shape, height, and depth for detailed topographic survey reports.

With qualifications and experience in various types of topographical surveying, we cater to diverse purposes, from residential plots to large estates and civil construction projects. Our accurately measured drone land survey reports include detailed 3D models of proposed developments, offering potential investors an exact visualisation of the future project. We also integrate historical survey data with the latest technology to generate comprehensive land surveys.

For more information, feel free to contact us at 0800 337878.