![]() It’s useful to understand that an “off the shelf” consumer drone like the Phantom 4 Pro or the Mavic Pro relies on public satellite data for its precision, and that data is often only accurate to 3-5m (yes metres) horizontal, while vertical accuracy is almost meaningless. But maps with low relative accuracy and low or no absolute accuracy are just pretty pictures, and should be treated as such. High relative accuracy can be useful on it’s own, if the model does not need to be fitted into a geospatial framework. You could measure absolute accuracy with a tape measure or ruler. Relative Accuracy (also called local accuracy) reflects only how accurate the position of one pixel, position or object in the model is to another pixel, position or object in the model. Relative accuracy applies within the model, whereas absolute accuracy applies to where the model fits in the real world (illustration courtesy Delair) What is relative accuracy? There are two types of accuracy when it comes to drone mapping surveys (or any other kind of survey) – Relative Accuracy (also known as local accuracy) and Absolute Accuracy (also known as global accuracy). What does “accuracy” mean for drone survey mapping? It’s not worth the risk.īut to understand that fully, we need to talk about what accuracy really means. These platforms provide pretty outputs, but not accuracy, and there is literally no way to measure how accurate or inaccurate the results may be. Some drone operators don’t use PPK/RTK or GCPs at all, but rely entirely on a 3rd party processing platform like DroneDeploy or Pix4D to provide the accuracy. Where ultimate precision is required, we use ground control points and checkpoints measured by a qualified surveyor. ![]() ![]() When we create aerial survey maps, we use industry-standard GIS-grade PPK and RTK survey equipment to level and align the photogrammetric data for maximum accuracy. There are situations where drone imagery is all you need to inform your project planning or pre-design work, but before you rely on drone-based map to plan earthworks, building foundations or other structural and engineering uses where accuracy is critical, you need to know they can be certified by a registered surveyor. Basing your project on flawed data can lead to major problems and legal liability issues – something most drone operators know nothing about. Survey accuracy and reliability are critical if you intend to use the data for engineering or construction purposes. But is that enough? And if so, why do US survey authorities insist on aerial mapping being delivered only by licensed surveyors (even if Australian authorities don’t)? And some construction companies think the same. In fact, lots of drone operators think that’s all you need. You can even buy something called Aeropoints that will provide a level of ground control for additional accuracy. You can process it on an online platform like Pix4D or DroneDeploy and get what looks like fairly good outputs. It’s pretty easy to buy a drone and fly a site for mapping data. So how accurate are aerial mapping surveys using drones? And why does experience matter so much? We regularly partner with engineers, surveyors and other industry professionals to rapidly deliver survey-grade aerial mapping (especially over larger areas). Queensland Drones is a trusted provider of precision PPK Precision Aerial Mapping using purpose-built mapping UAVs. Can Drone Aerial Surveys Meet Engineering Standards?ĭrone mapping surveys are being used more and more to support construction, development, mining, agricultural and other commercial activities.
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