In the last few years, technology and digitization have driven massive changes in different areas of society—including land surveying. Gone were the days when measuring ropes and tapes were the only instruments for gauging plots of land.
From 3D mapping to drones, we have come a long way in gathering data and identifying boundaries. Let’s look at several land surveying trends and advancements that have been shaping the industry.
GPS
Global Positioning System or GPS is a satellite system for providing accurate positioning, navigation, and timing measurements. This space-based system sends navigation pulses to users on Earth.
In land surveying, GPS technology is used to provide more accurate and reliable data. Surveyors can receive the height, longitude, latitude, and other information in a faster manner. For context, an individual using a GPS system is twice more efficient than a survey team.
Whether you need to survey mountains or utility lines, GPS can produce geographically accurate data. Since a GPS-based data collection is faster, both efficiency and productivity can boost significantly. This can result in less time and labor required for the task.
Drones and UAVs
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like drones are becoming more common in the industry. Drones are now used to take detailed images of complex terrain and hard-to-reach landscapes. Such technology is important when surveyors need to cover large surface areas.
Over the years, UAVs became an industry standard when it comes to surveying and 3D mapping. Some of the benefits of drones are accuracy, accessibility, and affordability. With the aid of modern drones, professional surveyors capture data in a short period of time. Read our blog about the role of drones in land surveying.
3D Laser Scanning
Dating back to the 1960s, 3D laser scanning is used for determining accurate coordinates of surfaces. Land surveyors use GPS, laser beams, and photodetectors to capture data. The collected information will be utilized in creating digital 3D models and maps.
Aside from high-definition surveying, 3D laser scanning is a highly efficient method. A single laser scanner can gather millions of 3D coordinates within seconds. Like drones, 3D laser scanners can survey difficult and dangerous terrains. This way, the survey team can stay away from danger.
Mobile 3D Mapping
As the name suggests, mobile mapping systems collect geospatial data from mobile vehicles. These devices can fit in a backpack or be mounted on a mobile platform. With mapping technology, indoor, outdoor, and underground areas can be captured in full detail.
Land surveyors can get real-time results even for complex projects. Similar to laser scanners, mobile mapping systems can create 3D models. This can help save time, money, and resources as compared to other surveying methods.
Total Stations
This is a modern surveying instrument that calculates angles and slope distances. Using a total station has become a trend because of its high accuracy. Measuring coordinates is now more accurate and faster. Whether you’re measuring vertical or horizontal angles, total stations can be utilized to collect geospatial data.
In recent years, robotic total stations are used to operate the station remotely. This means that surveyors can pilot the rover using just a remote control.
Cloud-Based Data Storage
As surveying methods become more complex, the larger storage space is needed. It is common knowledge that 3D drawings are large in file size. That’s why cloud technology is transforming the future of land surveys. One survey team might handle several projects with complex datasets. Cloud storage is a hundred times better than hard drives because of its processing power and scalability. Land surveyors no longer need to worry about outgrowing their storage capacity and data security.
Surveying companies are shifting to cloud-based storage because of its seamless accessibility. You can easily access and send data to clients or other users. With cloud storage, land surveyors can check 3D models while on-site. There’s no need to be in the office to process geospatial data. All they need is to access the cloud server using any device and proceed with their tasks.
Contact Our Survey Team Today!
If you are looking for land surveyors, Pittsburgh Land Surveyors can assist you! We perform different kinds of land surveys and data collection through our service areas. From small to complex projects, we can produce reliable surveys at quick turnaround times. Schedule your consultation today to get started!
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