Detailed Mapping for Soil Erosion Analysis

High-precision LiDAR survey for erosion analysis and risk mitigation

Technical Challenge

A parking lot presented a gully of considerable size, which constituted a structural and safety risk. The need was to obtain a detailed topographic survey to dimension the extent and depth of the erosion.

In-situ measurements were dangerous and logistically complex due to terrain instability. A Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and high-resolution contour lines with 25-centimeter precision were required for the development of a mitigation project.

Project Details

Client

Construction Company

Location

Parking Lot, El Salvador

Duration

3 days

Type

Erosion analysis

LiDAR Solution

We used a UAV platform with LiDAR technology to scan the affected area. The sensor's ability to capture high-density data in a single flight allowed us to obtain a point cloud with millions of XYZ coordinates that mapped the three-dimensional geometry of the gully with sub-centimeter precision.

Unlike photogrammetry, LiDAR technology was not affected by shadow conditions or lack of texture in the eroded earth, ensuring data integrity.

Results and Deliverables

Dense Point Cloud
LAS/LAZ files ready to import into design software (Civil 3D) for modeling and analysis.
Digital Elevation Model
DEM that accurately represents the topography of the bottom and slopes of the gully.
Contour Lines
With 25 cm intervals, plotted on DWG and PDF plans for detailed technical analysis.
Orthophoto and Orthomosaic
High-resolution aerial images that provided clear visual context of the study area.

Project Results

Project Executed in 3 Days

The project was executed in a three-day period without sacrificing data fidelity with reality, demonstrating the efficiency of the method.

25cm

Contour intervals

3

Days of work

100%

Data integrity

Why Ave Drones is the best ally for these cases?

The speed in LiDAR data acquisition allows engineers and architects to advance the design of mitigation works almost immediately. Additionally, being an automated mechanism, it minimizes risks associated with workplace accidents when obtaining data due to terrain instability and allows complete access to the study surface.

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