What Should You Consider When Commissioning a Point Cloud Survey?

The emergence of Point Cloud Surveys is shaping the future of survey data delivery. With experts like Michael Gallie & Partners steering the helm, there’s a continuous emphasis on tailoring these surveys to meet specific client requirements. Before diving headlong into commissioning such a survey, what are the pivotal factors one should be mindful of?

Crafting Perfect Point Cloud Deliverables

1. The Colour Conundrum: RGB vs. Mono

A critical decision hinges on whether you’re inclined towards a vibrant, full-colour (RGB) point cloud or a simpler non-colour (Mono) rendition. This choice should be solidified during the initial tender phase, as making post-survey alterations can be cumbersome and financially draining. Inherently, producing a full-colour point cloud necessitates more time and resources – often doubling the on-site collection duration compared to its non-coloured counterpart.

2. Format Flexibility

Michael Gallie & Partners prides itself on offering an array of point cloud formats, aligning perfectly with clients’ software preferences. Clearly indicating your desired format early on ensures a streamlined quoting process, reflecting any nuances in processing time. While the team operates within specific software confines in-house, accommodating external format requests mandates prior intimation.

3. Point Spacing: A Game of Accuracy

The granularity of point spacing plays a pivotal role in ensuring the survey’s fidelity. By defining this during the tender phase, surveyors can gauge the time and resources necessary for data filtration. Remember, transitioning to a denser spacing requires additional time, effort, and costs. Optimal point spacing not only enhances data accuracy but also significantly trims down file sizes, ensuring seamless integration with your preferred software.

4. Viewer Varieties

Offering a spectrum of point cloud viewers, Michael Gallie & Partners ensure that every client finds their fit. One must weigh the benefits between opting for a web-based viewer – which, while convenient, bears higher costs due to hosting and setup – versus a traditional hard drive-based viewer with pre-installed software.

Conclusion

The intricate tapestry of Point Cloud Surveys demands meticulous planning and foresight. By understanding and pre-determining your specific needs, you position yourself to derive maximum value from the survey, leading to unparalleled accuracy and efficiency.

 

FAQs

1. What’s the primary difference between RGB and Mono point clouds?

RGB point clouds offer full-colour data capture, whereas Mono point clouds are non-coloured, typically grayscale.

2. Why is point spacing so crucial in a Point Cloud Survey?

Point spacing determines the data’s granularity and accuracy. Optimal spacing ensures detailed representation and efficient file sizes.

3. Can I alter the point cloud format after the survey is completed?

Yes, but specifying your preferred format beforehand saves time and ensures a streamlined delivery process.

4. Are web-based viewers superior to hard drive-based ones?

It’s a matter of preference. Web-based viewers offer convenience and accessibility but come with higher setup and hosting costs.

5. Who can I reach out to for expert advice on Point Cloud Surveys?

Professionals like Sam Lloyd at Michael Gallie & Partners are adept at guiding clients through the intricacies of Point Cloud Surveys.

Point Cloud Survey