Drones will be utilised in the business to offer rapid surveys of pre-existing structures used in projects, while also creating accurate 3d models of the structure and site to use in the design process to ensure successful integration between the old and new. Standardised building surveying is a costly and man hour intensive process, on large scale structures Libar systems are often used, however this system is relatively expensive and has to be moved multiple times. Drone surveying eliminates all of the prementioned issues, with the platform being mobile and capable of self-navigation, requiring little human input there for costing less man hours.

 

During initial investigations into drone surveying it seemed like Lidar would be required to undertake such a task, this would have required a larger drone such as the DJI Matrices M210 RTK which would act as a mounting platform for additional equipment such as a Snoopy A-series lidar sensors and cameras, the problems this configuration creates are many. The large Size of the M210 RTK means it would not be able to conduct internal surveys meaning a smaller additional drone would have to be purchased which would not full fill the tasks to the same quality, The Lidar and camera equipment also cost large additional amounts due to their speciality, while weighing down the drone limiting the degree of mobility.

 

Following further research an alternative was found, a smaller, lighter , integrated drone system that full filled all criteria , the DJI Phantom 4 RTK. This model is specialised for surveying and creating digital 3d models from flight data only using camera footage and its on board flight positioning system. This system or an evolved version would be utilised in the business from its launch in 2026

 

To further improve the quality of the survey outcomes the drone is also compatible with a cloud platform called DJI Terra, where the drone can be set on predetermined path or navigate its own, recreate 2d and 3d environments accurately, either assist in surveying or monitoring construction progress and offer point to point measurements. The software also fully renders any model data collated ready for use. Only a few highly relevant features were mentioned, there are many others. The System cost £2,311 per year for a business licence.

 

DJI Phantom 4 RTK cost : £3,385

 

Key DJI Phantom 4 RTK Features:

• 1cm + 1 PPM horizontal positioning accuracy for 3d mapping

• 1.5cm +1ppm vertical positioning accuracy for 3d mapping

• 5cm Absolute horizontal accuracy of photographic models

• Mounted 20 – megapixel cameral with stabilisation –

• 7km operational range

• Purchase includes manual controller with integrated screen to control the drones full capability

• The controller and drone are time synced to ensure no lag between instruction and execution of orders

• System when integrated with DJI Terra, uses satellite positioning to provide exact precise positioning and location data

• The system can operate in tandem with Built in controller screen with Custom application for control and surveying, flight path planning, terrain awareness and 2d/3d object mapping

• For further model and data accuracy the drone and cloud system can work in tandem with external mobile stations for reference points