What is photogrammetry and what is it used for?

Photogrammetry is the art and science of measuring the Earth with images. It can produce maps, 3D models, and other cartographic products. Photogrammetry has a long history dating back more than 100 years, but it has experienced a boom in recent years due to the advancement of drone technology.

Drone photogrammetry has become increasingly popular in recent years as the cost of drones has decreased while technology has improved significantly; this has allowed this technique to be used by various sectors, including construction, agriculture, the environment, mining, and more. The scope it can have in developing your project will depend on the techniques used, the area, and the accessibility that the data collection represents.

Drones have opened up new possibilities for photogrammetry, as they allow high-quality images to be obtained at a relatively low cost; this has made drone photogrammetry increasingly popular in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, environment, mining, and more.

Survey of an area through the drone topography service.

How does drone photogrammetry work?

Drone photogrammetry is a three-stage process: image capture, image processing, and generation of 3D maps and models.

  • Capture images: The first step is to capture the images necessary for the project; this can be done with a still camera or video camera mounted on a drone. Multiple photos of the same area should be taken from different angles for the best results.
  • Image processing: Once the images have been captured, they must be processed using photogrammetry software. This software is responsible for generating maps and 3D models from the pictures.
  • Generation of maps and 3D models: The last step is to generate the maps and 3D models; this can be done manually or using photogrammetry software. Photogrammetry software is the most accurate method and allows for high-quality results.
Representative icon of a topographic scan. Service performed in Juarez Thompson.

We can use digital twins in these different sectors:

  • Rapid prototyping
  • Quality control
  • Reverse engineering
  • Virtual reality
  • Animation
  • Architecture
  • Archaeology
  • Medicine

Why use drone photogrammetry in surveying?

Drone photogrammetry offers several advantages over other mapping and surveying methods.

First of all, it is a much faster and more efficient method. Large amounts of data can be captured quickly, saving time and money and greater control of the tasks to be carried out on the plans. In addition, part of the aerial images can be analyzed with a drone's digital model of the generated terrain.

Second, drone photogrammetry allows for much detailed information to be obtained. Photos captured by drones can be processed to generate highly accurate 3D maps and models; this is very useful for decision-making in various sectors. Creating analysis and inspection solutions for each case using a drone in aerial photogrammetry is currently a high-value tool for any project.

Third, drone photogrammetry is a very versatile method. Drones can be equipped with various cameras and sensors to capture data of different wavelengths; this allows users to get the information they need for their projects. Through study techniques, data can be obtained through photography or photographs generated by the drone in the exploration, together with the use of elements and devices so that the work and generation of the map or surface are the best.

Fourth, drone photogrammetry is a safe and environmentally friendly method. It does not require airplanes or other means of transport, eliminating the need for significant fuel and significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

Fifth, drone photogrammetry is an accessible method. The cost of drones has been falling in recent years, which has made this technique increasingly accessible to a variety of sectors.

How does drone photogrammetry work to obtain images?

Drone photogrammetry is performed using a drone equipped with a camera. The drone will fly over the area to be mapped and take photos at different angles. The captured photos will then be processed using photogrammetry software to generate highly accurate 3D maps and models.

What kind of photographs is obtained with drone photogrammetry?

Drone photogrammetry allows a large amount of detailed information to be obtained. Photos captured by drones can be processed to generate highly accurate 3D maps and models; this is very useful for decision-making in various sectors.

Aerial view of a photogrammetry survey with drones carried out by JT Reality Capture

What are the applications of drone photogrammetry?

Drone photogrammetry has become increasingly popular in recent years because it offers several advantages over other mapping and surveying methods. This technique can be used in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, environment, mining, etc.

What is needed to perform photogrammetry with drones?

To perform drone photogrammetry, you need a drone equipped with a camera. Photogrammetry software will also be required to process the captured photos.

The use of drones for photogrammetry has become more prevalent in recent years. A drone equipped with a camera can be used to capture high-quality aerial photos that are perfect candidates for creating 3D models by using professional software packages such as Autodesk's Photosuite 360, which is adequately capable of doing this kind of work.

What is the cost of drone photogrammetry?

The cost of drone photogrammetry depends on several factors, including the size of the area to be mapped, the number of photos required, and the photogrammetry software used. In general, the cost of this method is much less than other mapping and surveying methods.

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