Latest Technology

DJI Terra is a PC application software that mainly relies on 2D orthophotos and 3D model reconstruction. It is a one-stop solution that delivers unparalleled efficiency to industry users, with comprehensive reconstruction models catering to verticals such as land mapping, power transmission, emergency services, construction, transportation, and agriculture.

Monssi aerial surveys with the added backing of a RICS report.

Introduction to Aerial Surveying

The use of drone technology in construction and property management has revolutionised the way we collect data with the speed of access to data set to increase over the next few years as A.I. becomes a part of everyday life. 

The days of scaffolding and elevated towers with the surveyor and his camera are rapidly disappearing as industry adopts use of drone technology. In a world where efficiency and cost reductions have become normal practice aerial drone (UAV) technology and although in its relative infancy (drone balloons and radio-controlled aircraft were used in both the World Wars) you ignore its potential application to the detriment of actual costs. 

What’s happening today is an extraordinary rate of development with drone technology and while no one likes change, this technology definitely splits into two groups, the forward thinking and the ones who fail to recognise the potential of adopting the use of drones. The adoption of drones is clearly set to grow in the future, we have far more to see in terms of development, new products and technical innovations. Drones will fly faster and longer, improving safety with the major benefits coming from improvements to the drone sensors also the use of predictive data analytics analysing real time information through machine learning and algorithms.

Drone Inspections in Confined Spaces

The chances are that when considering the use of drones, you think of those flying in the sky and whatever their use, drones are evidently most often airborne.  However, drones are a fabulous way to gather data from confined space inspections too.  For example, a remote inspection of an underground chamber or tank carried out using our Elios 2 drone services will save time and money.  

Allowing safer and less complex inspections are both significant benefits of using drone technology.  Without the need for all the safety equipment necessary for human inspection, both overground and underground drone inspections take a fraction of the time to complete.  However, it is essential that a qualified and experienced pilot undertakes the survey as in the case of underground inspection, confined spaces can be perilous.  For example, any hazardous substance present within the chamber area will have an impact on the drone which needs careful handling.

Whilst traditional drones are not suitable for flying in confined spaces, those designed specifically for this use are an highly efficient solution.  The benefits of using the Elios 2 are clear.  For example, the drone is collision tolerant and can readily navigate obstacles in its path.  In addition, its integral thermal camera and lighting system produce high quality video footage.

In the same way that drones eliminate the need for scaffolding and cherry pickers for high level surveys, the advantages of using drones to inspect underground tanks and chambers are diverse.  Whilst reducing the need for manpower, drones keep all those involved safe from any unforeseen hazards.  Consequently, any potential for project downtime is minimised.  Not only will the duration of the inspection be significantly reduced by using a drone but the time taken in preparation is minimised, too.  Dispensing with complex risk assessments, safety equipment procurement and set up time significantly contributes to the time and cost efficiencies brought about by using the advanced Elios 2 technology to carry out underground inspections.

The uses for confined area inspections are wide ranging.  From civil engineering to shipping inspections and industrial surveys to brewing and mining, the benefits are clear.

3D models are in effect a series of photographs from the given height referred to as a point cloud and this produces the textured model. This technology can be easily combined with ground-based laser scanning and conventional total station surveying to produce 2D and 3D models which can be imported into BIM or CAD packages so that comparisons can be made with the design plans or it can be used as standalone to create intelligent 3D models. 3D models bring the real-world or ‘as-built’ into the office and this means the user can carry out some of the following tasks: appraisal of existing conditions, monitoring construction progress, carrying out structural assessments and recording ‘as-built’ conditions.

High resolution aerial imagery can be captured on the whole project area with the images merged to form the seamless mosaic. The data collected can be used within BIM to understand a development area in greater detail, while the 2D image is orthorectified so measurements can be obtained and taken from the data.

Drones are the best way for companies to identify roof problems on any property, they provide the surveyor/project manager with a date and timed data allowing early identification of issues. Once the schedule of works is completed a further flight confirms the contractor has complied with your specification. Monssi is your Clerk of the Works in sky, we collect the evidence that works have been completed, ensuring you only pay for what’s finished.