Beyond Boundaries: Explore the Possibilities of Drone & Photogrammetry Services

PMC's Drone & Photogrammetry services deliver high-quality results through advanced capture technologies and processing software. With our team of FAA-licensed pilots, we collaborate with you to provide comprehensive drone and sUAS services for aerial video, building as-builts, and many other photogrammetry-based deliverables. We offer advanced control technologies, including RTK control, enabling the generation of point clouds from photos that rival traditional laser scanners in terms of data accuracy at capture rates an order of magnitude greater than traditional scanning. Trust PMC as your reliable partner for all your drone-related needs.

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+1 Billion

SQFT Scanned

+5000

Projects Completed

+700

Satisfied Customers

+40 years

Experience

Drone technology is pivotal in our Reality Capture process.

PMC utilizes state-of-the-art sUAS equipment and processing software to deliver the best results available. Our equipment utilizes survey grade RTK corrections (GPS) and advanced total stations to control the capture data so you can expect to see accuracy of at least +/- 2 CM across a large project.

Typical projects are comprised of several thousand high-resolution pictures. We used the most advanced Photogrammetry software to stitch all the images together, ultimately developing a 3D point cloud of the area. This process creates a high-definition point cloud, much like what you would expect from a terrestrial laser scanner, just not as dense. This is especially useful on projects that include areas like roofs and towers that a terrestrial laser scanner cannot reach or economically capture.

Why does this matter?

Being able to capture difficult to access areas with sUAS is much safer than traditional methods, repelling off the edges of structures to take manual measurements. These old methods introduce errors in the measurement process and have extreme levels of risk for the person taking the measurements. Eliminating the need for humans to climb or repel to the area of interest eliminates a large amount of the overall cost as well, for example the climb to the top of a cell tower takes longer than the actual work to perform. You have to ask yourself, “Do I need to send a person up, or can I gather all the information that I need from high-definition imagery consolidated into a highly accurate point cloud, which can be measured and inspected as though I were right there?”

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    Benefits of Drone Surveying and Photogrammetry

    • Efficiently document ornate building details for repair and restoration
    • Document tall structures with high-resolution imagery
    • Generate detailed point clouds to precisely replicate intricate cornices and challenging architectural elements.
    • Coordinate material intake and trade staging through progress tracking using sUAS.
    • Capture and create measurable content for construction environments management.
    • Streamline workflows, minimize delays, and improve coordination.
    • Eliminate the need for humans to enter hazardous environments.
    • Collect data faster, reduce reliance on manual inspections, and optimize resources.

    Drone Surveying and Photogrammetry Services Applications

    Architecture

    Provide architects with accurate and detailed aerial data, enabling precise site analysis, mapping, and 3D modeling for effective design and planning.

    Construction

    Offer valuable aerial data and 3D models for accurate site assessment, progress monitoring, and streamlined construction workflows.

    Natural Resource Management

    Support environmental monitoring, vegetation mapping, and land conservation efforts, providing valuable insights for sustainable resource management and allowing for environmental change tracking.

    Engineering

    Provide detailed aerial data and 3D models, aiding in project planning, design validation, and efficient infrastructure development.

    Power, Gas, and Telecommunications

    Allow accurate mapping of power lines, gas pipelines, and telecommunication towers for maintenance planning and assisting in regulatory compliance.

    Infrastructure Inspection

    Provide detailed visual data and accurate measurements for assessing the condition of bridges, roads, buildings, and other critical infrastructure assets.

    Emergency Response and Disaster Management

    Provide rapid and accurate aerial assessment of affected areas, enabling efficient damage assessment, search and rescue operations, and disaster response planning.

    Our Drone Surveying and Photogrammetry Experts 

    PMC's drone surveying and photogrammetry experts are highly skilled in utilizing advanced technology to capture precise data. With professional-grade drones and expertise in photogrammetry, our team delivers high-quality aerial imagery, point clouds, and accurate 2D or 3D models. Our FAA-licensed pilots provide flexible, efficient, and safe methods for capturing detailed and accurate data on buildings, supporting a wide range of analysis and decision-making processes in urban planning, architecture, and civil engineering.

    Related Service: Building and Site Laser Scanning

    PMC is a global leader in 3D laser scanning, with extensive experience working with clients across various industries. Our award-winning methodologies integrate multi-mode scan data into a single point cloud, creating accurate as-built conditions and virtual job sites. This fast, non-intrusive method captures precise as-built data, which can be directly imported into BIM software like Revit or Navisworks, eliminating the need for return visits to the site.
    More Information on Multiple Site Laser Scanning Services

    Check out some of our Drone and Photogrammetry Service Case Studies below!

    Introduction to Laser Scanning
    AEC After the Scan
    Digital Factory + Scanning

    Frequently Asked Questions for Drone Surveying and Photogrammetry Services 

    What is drone-based photogrammetry?
    Drone-based photogrammetry involves using drones equipped with cameras to take photographs from multiple angles of buildings and other structures. These images are then used to create detailed 3D models through software that analyzes the photos.
    How accurate are the 3D models created by drone-based photogrammetry?
    The accuracy of 3D models generated by drone-based photogrammetry depends on several factors, including the quality of the camera, the resolution of the images, and the conditions under which the photographs were taken. Generally, these models are highly accurate and can capture fine details of the structures.
    Can drone-based photogrammetry be used for inspecting building conditions?
    Yes, drone-based photogrammetry is an excellent tool for inspecting the condition of buildings. It allows for detailed views of hard-to-reach areas like rooftops, facades, and other structural elements, facilitating regular maintenance and safety inspections.
    What types of cameras are used in drone-based photogrammetry?
    Common types of cameras used include high-resolution digital cameras, multispectral cameras, infrared cameras, and sometimes even LiDAR sensors, depending on the specific requirements of the project.
    How does weather affect drone-based photogrammetry?
    Weather conditions can significantly impact the quality of photogrammetry. Optimal conditions include clear, sunny days with minimal wind. Overcast conditions, rain, or strong winds can hinder the drone’s stability and image clarity.
    Is there a legal restriction on using drones for photogrammetry?
    Yes, many countries have regulations governing the use of drones, which may include restrictions on flying over populated areas, near airports, or at certain altitudes. PMC is familiar with all restrictions & laws and will make the process as smooth as possible.
    How long does it take to process the images into a 3D model?
    The processing time can vary depending on the number of images, the complexity of the structures, and the capabilities of the processing software. Typically, it can take a few hours to a couple of days to generate a detailed 3D point cloud. Models can take days or weeks depending on the size of the area.
    Can drones capture the interior of buildings?
    Generally, drones are used to capture the exteriors of buildings. Capturing interior spaces can be challenging due to the limited space and navigation hazards. However, specialized drones designed for indoor use are beginning to make this possible under certain conditions.
    What is the best time of day to conduct drone-based photogrammetry?
    The best time is usually during the late morning or early afternoon when the sunlight is optimal for high-quality images with minimal shadows. Avoid times when the sun is too low as it can cause long shadows and uneven lighting.
    Can drone-based photogrammetry be used for historical preservation?
    Absolutely, drone-based photogrammetry is highly valuable for historical preservation. It allows for the detailed documentation of historical structures in their current state, which is crucial for restoration efforts and archival purposes.

    Drone and Photogrammetry Service projects

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