We’ve come a long way since the early days of surveying.
Today, many aerial survey consulting companies are offering aerial survey
service with specialties in mine aerial survey. Advances in technology are
making it easier to survey mines accurately and more efficiently.
Mining surveyors are responsible for accurately measuring
the areas and volumes of mines. This includes a precise representation of the
underground and surface situations on mining plans. When mine aerial survey
entered the market, it changed the way mines are surveyed today.
Common software technologies used in aerial survey service include
airborne laser scanning (LiDAR), airborne photogrammetry, satellite imagery,
and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These programs and technologies are essential
elements to accurately capture and process the data for use.
Airborne Laser Scanning (LiDAR)
Airborne laser scanning, or more popularly known as LiDAR, captures
the mining environment. By using unmanned aerial systems, mine surveyors have
an easier way of gathering data under challenging circumstances. Mine aerial survey with LiDAR allows
surveyors to acquire millions of points per square kilometer. The density
creates a robust dataset to use for mining applications such as geomorphology
and structural geology, volume calculations, slope analysis, and surface
run-off modeling for feasibility and environmental impact studies. Volumetric
mapping can also be available when using LiDAR technology.
Aerial Photogrammetry
Aerial photogrammetry has provided a proven method of pit
mapping and stockpile volume measurement for mining with an emphasis on 3D
modeling and monitoring. After acquiring spatial data, it can be used to create
digital terrain models and topographic maps. Imagery from the mine aerial
survey can also be used in automated processing for producing DEMs. Aerial
photogrammetry is often used today on UAVs and combined with LiDAR technology.
Results can be based on the skill and expertise of the aerial survey consulting
company, ground support from mine site survey staff, and good weather
conditions.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
Mining survey is trending toward working with UAVs with
digital cameras to produce high-resolution aerial imagery. Further processing
can create precise orthophotos, point clouds, and 3D models. The data gathered can
be used for forecasting mine development, monitoring changes, and calculating
volumes. The safety of mining workers underground can also be improved by UAVs
gathering information on the surface situation.
Mining Survey of the Future
What could be more exciting than the aerial survey
developments and innovations shared so far? More great technology is on the
horizon making mining even more productive: virtual reality (VR) and augmented
reality (AR). On a global scale, the mining industry has been an early adopter
of these technologies.
VR can be used to carry out geological, geotechnical, and
environmental studies. Some mines are using VR to help in decision-making for
operations such as defining the mining area to environmental licensing
situations or closure of a mining site.
AR superimposes a layer of interactive digital information
over images of the physical world. This can offer the mining industry
opportunities to improve productivity, employee safety, and reduce costs for
equipment maintenance.
At Insitu, we offer professional aerial survey service and
consulting to improve data collection and results for mining companies. Get in
touch today to learn more.
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