Mines with both drones and Terrestrial LiDAR scanners can gain tremendous operational benefits by combining these two technologies.

These technologies are often used individually, each performing separate functions. However, cooperatively using drones and scanners allows you to combat the individual shortcomings associated with each.

Moreover, you can gain a more comprehensive and accurate dataset for multiple mining applications that can be confidently relied on.

Here is all you need to know about combining both drones (which make use of photogrammetry) and Terrestrial LiDAR scanners for increased survey data quality and improved operational effectiveness:
 
Combining drones and Terrestrial LiDAR scanners

The benefits of drones include the ability to cover large areas (approximately hundreds of acres) in a relatively short space of time and they can be deployed in hazardous or inaccessible areas (e.g. unstable highwalls or rockfaces) keeping your survey teams out of harm’s way.

Terrestrial scanners on the other hand offer high data accuracies up to the millimetre level and are easily set-up in an array of areas where data is to be collected. However, it is important to note that multiple setups and overlap are required to accurately survey the entire area of interest.

Moreover, Terrestrial scanners are also relatively versatile and can be used to meet varying objectives across multiple functions such as acquiring survey data, monitoring slope stability, calculating stockpile volumes, mapping geological structures and much more.

With drones and Terrestrial LiDAR scanners being among the most used surveying technologies in mining, the likelihood of both being found on site is very high. Despite this, the cooperative use of these technologies is not nearly as common.

In general, drones and scanners are used in silos but if used together they have the capacity to produce very accurate data and nullify the disadvantages associated with each for improve operational effectiveness.

Nevertheless, these technologies combined require highly accurate GCP points to ensure data accuracy and continuity.

For example, Rocketmine – a leader in mine surveying and mapping, deploys drones to capture photogrammetric data by flying over large areas of interest.

Rocketmine then compliments this by capturing point cloud data using stationary LiDAR scanners to assist clients with their daily volumetrics, progressions and site mapping.

Additionally, Rocketmine uses Terrestrial LiDAR scanners to periodically conduct audit scans of various sections of the area of interest, ensuring that photogrammetric datasets are correct and of the highest standards of accuracy and quality, safeguarding against cost increases resulting from inaccurate data.
 
The Final Word

Any surveyor will tell you that a solid mining operation hinges on accurate survey-grade data.

By incorporating both drones and Terrestrial LiDAR scanners, you can improve data accuracy, better adhere to the mining plan, lower costs and ensure fewer downstream issues.

Therefore, the case for combining these two technologies lies in their ability to holistically improve the data collection process and better serve your on-site needs.