How to create a georeferenced 3D model

What is a Georeferenced 3D Model?

A georeferenced 3D model is a digital representation of the real world, where the model’s coordinate system aligns with actual geographic coordinates. This alignment allows for accurate measurements and analysis at real-world scales, making it an essential tool in engineering, surveying, and spatial data management.

When georeferenced, this 3D point cloud provides accurate measurements that match real-world dimensions

This kind of model is incredibly valuable because it allows professionals to inspect and analyze real-world structures such as mines, wind turbine bases, or buildings. It offers a way to visualize, measure, and compare features in a highly precise manner.

The benefits of using a georeferenced 3D model include:

• Improved decision-making based on accurate spatial data
• Identification and assessment of structural damage or wear
• Accurate location and measurement of specific areas
• Quantification of materials, like stockpile volumes
• Combining multiple point clouds by aligning shared reference points

How to Create a Georeferenced 3D Model with the Elios 3

The Elios 3, a specialized drone designed for confined spaces, can collect georeferenced data that can be transformed into a detailed 3D model. It uses a LiDAR scanner to capture millions of points as it moves through an area, forming a dense point cloud. This data can then be processed into a realistic 3D representation of the environment.

If the data collection process is done properly, these point clouds can be accurately georeferenced, ensuring they reflect real-world measurements, distances, and features with high precision.

A point cloud of a carpark showing clear outlines of motorcycles and bicycles

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Site Preparation

Before starting the scan, ensure the site is safe for flight. Check for hazards such as water, low-hanging cables, or other obstacles. If needed, set up retroreflective targets around the area. These targets help in georeferencing the data during post-processing. Place at least four targets around the scanning area, spaced out and not symmetrically. For best results, use six or more targets to reduce errors and improve accuracy.

Step 2: Georeferencing the Targets

Use a total station to record the absolute positions of the retroreflective targets. This gives them geographic coordinates, which are essential for georeferencing the point cloud. Export the data as a CSV file, which will be used in the processing software later.

A surveyor georeferencing the retroreflective targets included with the Flyability Surveying Payload

Step 3: Taking Flight

Once everything is set, you can fly the Elios 3. Ensure the drone is in mapping mode with assistance enabled, and perform the 15-second calibration before takeoff. Avoid collisions by flying smoothly and keeping the drone within 1–3 meters of each target while making full 360-degree rotations. This ensures the LiDAR captures enough data for accurate georeferencing.

An example Elios 3 flight plan with rotations shown in blue

When landing, return the drone to the takeoff point and complete another 360-degree rotation. This helps close the loop of the flight path, improving the quality of the data and the accuracy of the final model.

Step 4: Processing the Data

After the flight, export the data via FlyAware. Use FARO Connect for post-processing. Select the Flyability processing template and specify the type of environment you were surveying—such as tunnels, confined spaces, or stockpiles. This helps the software apply the right settings for optimal results.

FARO Connect is tailored to support processing datasets from the Elios 3

Next, register the retroreflective targets in the software. This step tells the program what the exact coordinates of the targets are, allowing it to automatically align and georeference the entire point cloud. Following this guide will help you create high-quality, georeferenced *.las files ready for further analysis.

What's Next: Uses for 3D Models

Once your 3D model is georeferenced, you can use it for various applications. You can export it as a .las file and integrate it into CAD software or specialized tools for geospatial analysis. This makes it useful for asset management, maintenance planning, and infrastructure design across many industries.

Two different point clouds merged using common key points (targets)

Georeferenced 3D models are widely used in sectors like mining, civil engineering, and urban planning. They provide accurate data that supports better decision-making, safer inspections, and efficient project management. Some examples include:

• Enhancing sewer management through safer drone inspections
• Detecting orepass blockages using the Elios 3
• Measuring stockpiles with drone-based LiDAR

Georeferenced 3D models are just one of the many outputs available from the Elios 3. To learn how to georeference your own point clouds, follow the training provided by the Flyability team. They offer guidance on advanced data processing, merging flights, and automating georeferencing. For more information or additional training options, feel free to reach out via the contact button on our website.

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