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Drone technology has revolutionized the way we capture and analyze spatial data. More and more people are using commercial drones for 3D mapping, as these devices offer a powerful and efficient way to collect detailed geographic information. 3D modeling drones capture aerial data that can do many things traditional surveying methods cannot—quickly and accurately recording all objects in a given area.
Using photogrammetry software, you can stitch this data into an accurate 3D model. Once created, any captured information can be easily viewed, analyzed, and retrieved. Drone 3D models have been widely used in fields such as urban planning, traffic control, mobile telecommunication design, and environmental monitoring.
However, creating high-quality 3D models that look great from all angles is not as simple as buying an excellent survey drone. There’s a bit more to it. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about 3D drone mapping and modeling, including what a drone 3D model is, which is the best 3D mapping drone, and how to create a 3D model from drone images. Let's dive right in.
What is drone 3D mapping and modeling?
Drone 3D mapping refers specifically to the process of capturing oblique images by drones through the use of laser scanning and aerial photogrammetry techniques. 3D modeling, on the other hand, uses specialized software to analyze and process the aerial images captured by the drone to create a 3D model with GPS coordinates and precise measurements.
What is a 3D model?
A 3D model is created by drawing individual points on the X, Y, and Z axes of 3D space to create a 3D representation of an object. These points are connected by different geometric forms, such as triangles, lines, curved surfaces, etc., to form the model. This allows for a realistic and detailed visualization of real-world objects or environments.
Why drones are great for aerial photogrammetry?
The benefits of utilizing aerial photogrammetry are numerous, regardless of the application. First, drone photogrammetry easily captures data in areas that are difficult or unsafe for surveyors to reach, including places with severe landslides, crime or war zones, difficult-to-navigate terrain, and harsh weather conditions. This reduces the potential for crew injuries.
Second, equipped with high-resolution cameras, drones can capture sharp and detailed photos. If RTK/PPK is enabled, the drone can provide highly accurate survey results. Third, drones can reduce the time spent on field surveys. Photogrammetry with drones is five times faster than terrestrial methods and does not require the placement of many GCPs, allowing for faster delivery of survey results.
Finally, drones bring a dramatic reduction in cost compared to hiring full equipment like helicopters and cranes. Drones are easy to operate, cost a fraction of a manned aircraft, and eliminate huge fuel and labor costs.
Best drone for 3D mapping and modeling
Are you looking for the best drone for 3D mapping? Not all drones are made for 3D mapping, but some stand out for their performance and versatility. Here are some of the best 3D modeling drones available:
JOUAV CW-15: Best entry-level drone for 3D mapping
The JOUAV CW-15 is a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) fixed-wing drone designed specifically for 3D mapping. It offers up to 180 minutes of flight time and a cruising speed of 61 km/h, making it ideal for covering large areas quickly. With a range of up to 50 km, the CW-15 allows for extensive coverage without signal loss.
It can carry various payloads, including a 155MP five-lens oblique camera, a 50MP medium-format camera, and a LiDAR sensor, enabling centimeter-level 3D point clouds. Its compact design, obstacle avoidance features, and intelligent landing system make it suitable for complex scenes.
JOUAV CW-25E: Best drone for photogrammetry
The JOUAV CW-25E is a top-notch photogrammetry drone offering impressive flight time, range, speed, and camera quality. With a 240-minute flight time and a speed of 72 km/h, it provides ample time to cover large areas or capture detailed images. Its PPK and RTK GNSS modules ensure high accuracy, reducing ground control points by over 80%.
With a range of 50 or 100 km, the CW-25E allows for extensive exploration and stunning image capture. It records GPS coordinates and attitude angles at the time of exposure, providing a reliable 3D mapping solution.
JOUAV CW-30E: Best drone for GIS mapping
The CW-30E is a hybrid electric and gas-powered drone for GIS mapping, delivering centimeter-level positioning accuracy. It is designed for mapping tasks and includes integrated RTK and PPK modules for industry-leading performance. With a 600-minute flight time and a speed of 90 km/h, it can cover vast areas efficiently.
Its large cabin and load capacity allow it to carry various mission loads, such as aerial cameras, LiDAR sensors, and thermal cameras. The CW-30E can take off and land anywhere, even on moving vehicles or boats.
Drone 3D modeling software - Pix4D Mapper
Pix4D Mapper is a PC application focused on 2D orthomosaic and 3D model reconstruction. It includes features like LiDAR point cloud processing, orthomosaic map stitching, and 3D modeling. Its comprehensive reconstructed models are used in applications such as topographic mapping, power, emergency services, construction, transportation, and agriculture.
What is drone 3D mapping used for?
Drone 3D models provide users with rich geographic information and a user-friendly experience, making them valuable across many industries. Urban planning departments use 3D maps to detect changes in buildings and measure affected areas. Architects and landscape designers use photogrammetry to create accurate 3D models of public spaces.
Farmers use 3D models of farmland to understand soil and topography, while the construction industry uses drone 3D models to track project progress and document site layouts. Real estate companies use 3D maps to associate property titles with spatial locations, and energy companies use 3D models to inspect critical infrastructure safely.
Environmental agencies use 3D models to monitor forests and predict disasters, and law enforcement uses them to plan operations and locate missing persons. These diverse applications highlight the importance of drone 3D mapping in modern society.
How much does a drone 3D mapping cost?
The cost of a drone for 3D mapping varies depending on the equipment and capabilities. Intermediate mapping drones can cost less than $2,000, but they may only perform basic levels of mapping. Serious mapping equipment ranges from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the features and performance required.
How do you create a 3D model from drone images?
Creating a 3D model from drone images involves several steps. First, get a drone with a high-quality camera, such as the JOUAV CW Series VTOL drones, which include RTK and PPK modules for aerial photogrammetry.
Next, set up Ground Control Points (GCPs) to serve as reference points for the drone pilot. Then, check the weather and ensure optimal lighting conditions before flying. Finally, choose professional photogrammetry software like Pix4Dmapper to process your data into a 3D model.
Tips for improving the accuracy of your drone maps and 3D models
To improve the accuracy of your drone maps and 3D models, ensure that your aerial photos have 60–70% overlap, both laterally and frontally. Capturing images from different angles and altitudes increases the number of data points, and flying at lower altitudes improves image clarity.
By following these tips, you can achieve more accurate and detailed 3D models, enhancing the value of your drone mapping projects.