FAQ from Webinar
Equipment
Drones like the DJI Mavic 3E (Enterprise) and the DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2 are suited for mapping due to their high-resolution cameras and mechanical shutter. However, for more precise applications such as detailed topographical maps, drones equipped with RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) technology are preferred for enhanced GPS accuracy. Consumer drones can be used for basic mapping, but specialized drones will be necessary for more advanced requirements and projects.
With the legislative push against companies like DJI, considering US-based alternatives from the Blue UAS List such as Skydio or Parrott might be beneficial as these drones are known for their autonomous flying capabilities, which can be particularly useful in complex environments. However, if you are a current DJI owner and use your DJI drone for mapping, we recommend waiting until more information is made available first before you decide to purchase new equipment.
For beginners, a drone like the DJI Phantom 4 Pro v2, despite being older, still offers a good balance of ease of use, camera quality, and a mechanical shutter. It’s a practical choice for learning the basics of drone operation and mapping.
Software and Applications
For thermal mapping with drones like the DJI Mavic 3T, software that preserves radiometric data, such as Pix4Dmapper, is crucial. Linux users might also consider WebODM, an open-source option that supports photogrammetry and mapping processes.
APIs are essential for integrating new drone models into existing mapping workflows. Popular mission planning and photogrammetry software options include DJI Terra, Pix4D, and DroneDeploy. These tools offer a range of functionalities tailored to different mapping needs.
Initial Startup Costs
Starting an aerial mapping business with drones requires considering various startup costs. These expenses vary based on the scale of operations, equipment, software, and compliance requirements. Key initial investments include:
- Drone: Essential for aerial mapping, professional drones with high-resolution cameras and GPS cost between $1,000 and $10,000. Consider entry-level mapping drones that are capable of performing mapping missions in order to get some experience before investing in more advanced equipment.
- Camera Equipment: Necessary for capturing detailed imagery, these cameras may cost several thousand dollars, depending on compatibility and quality.
- Software Licenses: Software like Pix4D or DroneDeploy, crucial for processing images into maps and models, typically requires an annual investment of several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
- Computer Hardware: A robust computer capable of handling large datasets and intensive software is crucial, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Training and Certification: Legal and safe drone operations demand specific training and certifications, with courses and exams costing between $150 and $500.
- Accessories and Consumables: Items such as spare batteries, memory cards, and maintenance tools are essential, with initial costs around a few hundred dollars.
- Insurance: Liability insurance to cover potential damages or accidents may cost from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars annually.
- Marketing and Business Expenses: Funds for marketing, website development, and administrative costs may also be necessary, with the amount depending on your strategy and needs.
By allocating funds wisely across these categories, you can set a solid foundation for your aerial mapping business. You are likely to find cost savings through some creativity and resourcefulness (including buying used or “open box” drone hardware, camera equipment, only investing in marketing/business expenses if it’s absolutely necessary, and getting multiple bids for insurance quotes).
Regulations and Licensing
In some states, drone mapping activities are regulated to protect the interests of licensed surveyors. For instance, North Carolina has seen discussions about restricting drone mapping to licensed surveying professionals. Always research and verify your local and state regulations before commencing drone mapping operations.
Certain mapping projects, especially those used in legal contexts or construction, might require certification by a Professional Land Surveyor. This varies by state and the specific application of the mapping data. Always research and verify your local and state regulations before commencing drone mapping operations.
Industry Trends and Use Cases
The demand for drone mapping is growing in areas like agriculture for crop monitoring and in construction for site surveys. Emerging use cases include environmental monitoring and disaster management, where drones can assess areas unreachable by traditional means.
Quantum computing could potentially revolutionize drone data processing by speeding up the analysis of large datasets collected by drones, leading to more efficient and faster decision-making processes in industries like urban planning and environmental
Educational and Professional Development
We will continue to aggressively monitor new developments in the industry including hardware and software releases which are impacting the drone mapping category. Where it makes sense to educate our customers about these changes, we will do this either within the course itself (which you’ll have lifetime access to after enrollment), or through our other channels such as our weekly newsletter or YouTube channel.
We recommend staying up to date on the mapping software you’re using by visiting the manufacturer’s website. You should also attend seminars and trade shows which always share the latest and greatest developments in the industry. Examples of these are the annual Commercial UAV Expo and Exponential by AUVSI. It is also advisable to become a member of professional organizations in your local area that can also enable you to network with other drone industry professionals to stay up to date. You can explore Linked In or Facebook to see if there are any state or local drone pilot communities you can get connected with. Lastly, it can be beneficial to subscribe to various industry newsletters and publications which provide up to date information on industry trends and developments. The FAA has various publications you can subscribe to, in addition to Commercial UAV News and many others (including UAV Coach as mentioned previously).
Still have questions? Email training@horizonap.com or call us at 888-626-9052.