Austin, Texas, known for its rapid growth and high-tech industry presence, continues to evolve with advancements in technology. Often referred to as "Silicon Hills," the city is witnessing significant changes in how infrastructure is developed, particularly through innovations in surveying and geomatics.
Tom Ruschkewicz, Senior Vice President of Survey/Geomatics at Pape-Dawson, and Angela Livingston, Vice President of Geospatial Services, discuss the impact of technology on survey data collection and analysis. "Every project still uses surveying methodology," states Tom. He emphasizes the need for surveyors to geo-reference sensor-collected data to real-world coordinates.
Angela adds that surveyors play a crucial role by marking roadsides with symbols that facilitate accurate LiDAR use. In some instances, surveyors are required to gather information from locations inaccessible to scanners or identify potential engineering conflicts.
Advanced geospatial technologies such as Aerial LiDAR have transformed traditional surveying methods. "We can capture 20 miles in a few hours using aerial LiDAR," explains Tom. Although less detailed than ground-level scanning, aerial LiDAR provides engineers with high accuracy.
Mobile LiDAR offers another approach by mounting scanners on trucks for enhanced detail close to the surface. Angela notes that mobile LiDAR can achieve about 5,000 data points per meter (PPM), capturing details missed by aerial platforms.
Terrestrial LiDAR complements other methods by using tripod-mounted scanners to cover areas overlooked by mobile or aerial platforms. This method proves effective when FAA restrictions limit aerial operations or when safety concerns arise.
Drone-mounted LiDAR offers solutions for challenging environments where human access is restricted. Meanwhile, body-mounted LiDAR allows quick data collection in congested spaces like buildings and traffic intersections.
Tom highlights the diverse tools available at Pape-Dawson: "We have a collection of impressive tools at our disposal." He underscores the importance of safety and efficiency in their operations: "A scanner can get 5,000 data points per meter...in a fraction of the time."
Despite technological advancements, survey personnel remain integral to the process. Angela concludes: "Every project is different...we look for the best way to use the tools together."
The collected data forms a point cloud representing site terrain and structures. Engineers then utilize this information through GIS or CAD software for design work based on a comprehensive understanding of the site.