top of page

49 items found for ""

  • ROCK SLAM LiDAR with the R3 Pro: A Comprehensive Guide

    Discover the Future of LiDAR Mapping: ROCK SLAM ! In this guide, we'll walk you through how-to operate the R3 Pro in SLAM mode and share some valuable tips on capturing high-quality data. Join us as we explore the setup process, best practices for data capture, and a sneak peek into the advanced features coming to the ROCK Cloud and ROCK Desktop processing software. Let's get started! Assembling the ROCK SLAM Kit To begin, assemble the SLAM kit by removing the camera from the R3 Pro and attaching it to the SLAM dock. Secure the camera by screwing it into place. Connect the limo cable to the SLAM dock, ensuring the red dot aligns with the device's marking. Connect the other end of the cable to the battery bank for power. Proper Data Capture Techniques To obtain high-quality SLAM data, follow these essential techniques: Keep the LiDAR sensor above your head to avoid casting laser beams towards your face and body. Move the sensor slowly and steadily during data capture to minimize motion blur. Perform 'Loop Closures' during data capture by doubling back on the same path or walking in loops. This corrects for any drift in the data set and improves accuracy. Capturing Data Power on the R3 Pro by clicking the button once, and wait for the solid green light to indicate readiness. To start capturing data, Click the button once, let go, and then hold it down for five seconds then release. The light should blink red and green. Once it turns solid green, the device will start quietly beeping notifying you that the device is capturing data. Tips for Data Capture When navigating stairs, angle the LiDAR sensor down while ascending and angle it backward while descending. This ensures perpendicular data capture on the stairs for superior results. When transitioning between rooms, ensure all doors are open and walk slowly to maintain data continuity. Capture data at the room's opening before moving into the next room. Processing Data on ROCK Desktop After data capture is complete, repeat the single button steps to stop data capture. Remove the provided USB from the R3 Pro and open the dataset in ROCK Desktop. A SLAM subscription is required to process SLAM data contact sales@rockrobotic.com for more information. Click here to view the ROCK SLAM example dataset on the ROCK Cloud! Upcoming Features & Enhancements The future holds exciting advancements for ROCK SLAM . Soon, users will have access to GCP alignment, allowing the integration of Ground Control Points (GCPs) for increased accuracy. A new SLAM dock version, the SLAM Dock 2.0, will boast a 360-camera for colorized SLAM and GPS capabilities, elevating data capture to new heights. Conclusion ROCK SLAM on the R3 Pro offers a powerful solution for capturing precise and detailed data. By following proper data capture techniques and utilizing upcoming enhancements, users can maximize the potential of this innovative technology. We encourage you to join the Rock Robotics community for support, discussions, and updates on all things SLAM and beyond. Stay tuned for more tutorials and exciting features on the horizon! Want to get in on the ROCK SLAM action? Just schedule a meeting with a ROCK Expert to get started!

  • Unlock Precision with ROCK RTK Network for Just $40 a Month.

    The ROCK RTK Network transcends borders, offering global coverage with its vast array of GNSS base stations. This network is indispensable for tasks that demand centimeter-level accuracy, such as land surveying and construction stakeouts. For just $40 a month, you gain access to this extensive network, ensuring your data is precise, reliable, and ready to use. Compatibility is key. The ROCK RTK Network seamlessly integrates with a wide range of devices, including popular DJI drones like the M3E and M350. This flexibility ensures that your existing equipment can be easily upgraded to leverage the power of RTK without additional investment in new hardware. Access to RINEX data is a game-changer for post-processing workflows. By downloading historical RINEX data, you can refine your positioning information and achieve unparalleled accuracy in PPK workflows. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments where real-time corrections might be challenging, like dense urban areas or remote locations. The ROCK RTK Network isn’t just an add-on; it’s a transformative tool for professionals who rely on precision. Whether you're surveying land, working on infrastructure projects, or conducting environmental studies, the benefits of this network are clear—greater accuracy, seamless integration, and enhanced data processing capabilities. Ready to elevate your workflows with precision LiDAR solutions? Explore our industry-leading LiDAR hardware and data processing services. Work with us: https://rockrobotic.com Questions? Email us at: hello@rockrobotic.com For more LiDAR insights, check out the Indiana Drones YouTube Channel at youtube.com/c/IndianaDrones Purchase RTK Access: Subscribe Now

  • Enhancing LiDAR Projects with ROCK Pro Services’ Comprehensive Data Review

    In the world of LiDAR, precision and clarity are paramount. Yet, the path from data collection to actionable insights can be riddled with challenges. How do you ensure the data you’ve gathered is reliable and meets your project’s needs? Enter ROCK Robotic's latest innovation: a comprehensive data review and report as part of our Pro Services deliverable. This new feature is set to revolutionize how you interact with LiDAR data, providing essential insights into your data collection, flight plan, and data pre-processing. Unveiling the Comprehensive Data Review Our new data review service ensures that every step of your LiDAR workflow is optimized. By offering insights into your data collection and flight plan, we help you identify potential issues before they become costly errors. This proactive approach saves time and boosts confidence in your data’s accuracy. Tailored Insights for Superior Data Quality Every project is unique, and so is its data. With our comprehensive report, you’ll receive tailored insights that highlight the strengths and areas for improvement in your data pre-processing. This detailed feedback empowers you to refine future data collection strategies, ensuring consistently high-quality results. A Better Pro Services Experience Direct communication is key to our services. By engaging with our team, you receive deliverables tailored to your specific needs. This collaborative approach not only enhances your experience but also ensures that the data we provide is aligned with your project goals. Real-World Impact: Streamlining Projects with Precision Consider a recent case where a surveyor utilized our new data review feature. The insights provided led to a 30% reduction in data processing time, enabling faster project completion and improved client satisfaction. ROCK Robotic’s new comprehensive data review and report is more than a service—it's a game-changer. By offering insights into your LiDAR data’s collection and processing, we ensure your projects are not just completed, but completed with excellence. Ready to elevate your workflows with precision LiDAR solutions? Explore our industry-leading LiDAR hardware and data processing services. Work with us: https://rockrobotic.com Questions? Email us at: hello@rockrobotic.com For more LiDAR insights, check out the Indiana Drones YouTube Channel at youtube.com/c/IndianaDrones

  • ROCK Pro Services: Get Professional & Accurate Surveying Deliverables

    Why wait around for what you need? ROCK Pro Services will process professional deliverables for you, and we'll make sure they're perfect. Every project is quality checked by our team of experts to ensure you get the most out of your data. Need a large-scale custom order? Not a problem, we do it all. Contact us today to get learn more and get started! The Power of Expert Analysis One of the critical advantages of ROCK Pro Services is direct access to experts who specialize in analyzing and processing LiDAR data across various platforms — from drone LiDAR to terrestrial and SLAM systems. These professionals bring a wealth of experience to the table, having worked with a diverse array of data sets. Through the seamless interface of ROCK Cloud, ROCK Pro Service expert analysts can directly access your data, engage in quality assurance, and communicate with you about the deliverables, ensuring your project meets the highest standards. QC/QA: The First Line of Quality Assurance Our dedicated team of experts specializes in delivering top-tier QC/QA services designed to ensure the highest standards of excellence across a wide range of industries. With a focus on precision, efficiency, and client satisfaction, we are committed to providing services that meet and exceed your project's unique requirements. As we break down the list of what you can expect from our QC/QA offerings, you'll discover how ROCK Pro Services is the perfect partner for safeguarding the quality and integrity of your projects. Here's what you can expect when you engage with ROCK Pro Services: Quality Verification: A ROCK Processing agent will review your data set, validate the quality, and confirm correct projections. GCP Alignment: Your data set will be checked for alignment with ground control points, ensuring high accuracy. Anomaly Detection: Any inconsistencies or anomalies relative to the ground control points will be identified and addressed. Classification Cleanup: The agent will refine your classification, ensuring your surface model reflects the true nature of the terrain. The starting price for this invaluable service is extremely affordable, scaling on a per-acre basis for larger projects. Advanced Classification & Planimetrics ROCK Processing Services provides advanced classification options, including: Building, Tree, and Road Classification: Distinguish between various features with high accuracy for detailed analysis. Enhanced Classifications: Achieve superior data separation for ground, buildings, and high vegetation, with additional layers for roads, water, bridges, and transmission lines. For detailed planimetric analysis, ROCK Pro Services offers this service at an affordable rate, ensuring professional results at a fraction of the cost of in-house processing. No Project Too Large ROCK Pro Services is equipped to handle projects of any size. Large-scale endeavors are welcomed with open arms, and formal quotes are readily provided to meet your service needs, no matter the scope. Additional services are also available upon request, including: GIS Mapping: Extract features from LiDAR data for comprehensive GIS applications. BIM Modeling: Develop 3D BIM models from SLAM LiDAR and terrestrial data for in-depth architectural and engineering projects. Why Choose ROCK Pro Services? Affordable Pricing: Enjoy competitive rates that are designed to be more cost-effective than DIY methods. Expert Support: Benefit from a team of specialists dedicated to ensuring your data's precision. Scalability: Tackle projects of any size with confidence, knowing ROCK Processing Services has you covered. Reach Out Today Discover how your projects can be completed more efficiently and accurately with ROCK Pro Services. Whether you're dealing with a small local survey or a massive infrastructure project, ROCK Robotic is here to assist. Use ROCK Pro Services on your next project today!

  • Navigating Waters & 3D Data: Mobile Mapping on a Boat with the ROCK R3 Pro LiDAR

    LiDAR technology has ushered in a new era of data acquisition and mapping, changing the way we perceive and document the world around us. In an down to earth showcase of innovation and accuracy, join us as we explore LiDAR mobile mapping aboard a boat featuring the ROCK R3 Pro. Setting the Scene Our story unfolds on the serene waters of Jenkinson Lake, where we've armed ourselves with a pontoon boat, a few spare hours, and the ROCK R3 Pro. Our mission? To use this innovative LiDAR device in an unconventional manner by mounting it on our boat and mapping the entire shoreline. The Setup The ROCK R3 Pro is securely mounted on the pontoon boat. We've adapted a mobile mount designed for vehicles and affixed it to the boat's structure. This setup ensures that the LiDAR device can scan the coastline accurately as we navigate the waters. Additionally, we've installed a GPS unit on the boat's railing to complement the LiDAR data, forming a sturdy, synchronized system. Mapping the Coastline As the boat gently pushes against the shoreline, we initiate data acquisition. Stability is essential for accurate results, so we make sure the boat remains stationary during this phase. Our plan is to drive along the coastline in a parallel fashion, enabling the LiDAR device to capture precise data points. The Data Collection The boat follows a route that includes a figure-eight pattern and a straight line to ensure comprehensive data collection. Throughout this process, our team keeps a close eye on the LiDAR device's performance, with initial results showing promise. Data Processing After mapping the majority of the lake's shoreline, we upload the data to the ROCK Desktop pre-processing software. This preliminary analysis allows us to confirm the success of our unique setup and the quality of the data collected. Conclusion The adventure of using the ROCK R3 Pro on a pontoon boat to map the coastline of Jenkinson Lake has been both exciting and informative. We've learned that this unconventional approach is not only possible but also highly effective. The LiDAR data collected during our journey demonstrates the potential and versatility of this technology. As we conclude our day on the lake, we reflect on the successful outing, emphasizing the ease of setting up the LiDAR system on the boat, the importance of real-time data processing, and the surprisingly efficient use of battery power. Visit rockrobotic.com to learn more about us. Or, click the button below and schedule a meeting!

  • ROCK R3 Pro Accuracy Case Study: Airport Runway Mapping

    Today, we're diving deep into an exciting and enlightening accuracy case study conducted using our very own ROCK R3 Pro LiDAR camera and the ROCK Cloud software. Introduction to the ROCK R3 Pro and ROCK Cloud Firstly, let's take a moment to appreciate the gear that makes it all happen. The ROCK R3 Pro is our advanced LiDAR camera built specifically for drones, handheld SLAM, and mobile LiDAR mapping. Combining robust construction, top-tier tech, and pinpoint accuracy, it's a dream tool for geospatial professionals. Complementing the R3 Pro is our best-in-class LiDAR processing tool – ROCK Cloud. It allows you to convert, visualize, analyze, and share your LiDAR data with a user-friendly interface, streamlining data processing and enhancing productivity. Now, on to the case study. Why an Airport Runway? Airports runways - flat, open, and obstruction-free. These unique characteristics make them the perfect testing ground to assess the accuracy of our LiDAR system. The absence of buildings, vegetation, and other disturbances enables the ROCK R3 Pro to work its magic, capturing and detailing every nuance with flawless precision. So, we decided to put our gear to the test on an expansive airport runway. The Experimental Setup For this study, we configured the drone to hover at an altitude of 50 meters Above Ground Level (AGL). This height is optimal for obtaining the finest level of detail while maintaining coverage efficiency. Moreover, we set a 50% flight line overlap, ensuring comprehensive data collection. To collect RTK check shots, we employed an EMLID Reach RS2 Base and Rover pair, conveniently set up over a nearby NGS monument. However, today's workflows can be even more streamlined using a local ROCK Base and our ROCK RTK network. Thanks to this setup, we gathered an impressive 172 check shots, each boasting an astonishingly low error range of just 0.03 feet! Digging Deeper: The LiDAR Data Analysis Having gathered the data, it was time to uncover the stories they held. We started by importing the raw point cloud into the ROCK Cloud for processing and analysis. After adding the 178 RTK Check shots we quickly verified the alignment with a visual inspection. This way we can see the features in the intensity view and compare them to the RTK shot. Accuracy Report: Vertical Precision that Astounds First up was the Accuracy Report. Here, we zeroed in on the vertical accuracies. The image below visualizes the impressive results of this analysis. The statistics are simply staggering! Here's a snapshot of the numbers: Point Density: A high-resolution 38 points per sq ft Coverage: A sweeping 53 Acres Standard Deviation in Elevation Delta: A minimal 0.034 ft Mean Delta in Elevation: A near-zero 0.001 ft However, the absolute showstopper here is the Vertical Accuracy (RMS), which came out to be a staggering 0.034 ft! Yes, our eyes popped too! This figure is a striking testament to the unparalleled accuracy and reliability of the ROCK R3 Pro, with an incredibly low variance between the LiDAR data and the RTK check shots. I mean, just take a look at how consistent the data from the R3 Pro looks just the the naked eye. The quality is, dare I say, as good as a terrestrial scanner on a tripod! Strip Alignment: The Age of LiDAR 2.0 Next up was Strip Alignment. In the previous era of LiDAR 1.0, strip alignment was a tedious manual process plagued with errors and inconsistencies. But welcome to LiDAR 2.0, courtesy of ROCK Robotic! With our cutting-edge system, strip alignment issues are virtually non-existent. Below, I change the view into GPS time so we can easily visualize the individual flight strips that were captured. I draw a cross-section profile and the data is perfectly aligned. This should be expected as a default standard on all ROCK hardware. To further highlight this point, take a look at the second photo and look at the mixture of colors. This is a real, back of the envelope way to assess the alignment of the data. Here we can clearly see an even mixture of colors, implying that one strip is neither above or below the other. ✅ RGB Camera and LiDAR: A Perfectly Synced Duo Let's talk about the co-alignment of the RGB camera and the LiDAR laser scanner. In previous generation hardware, these could suffer misalignments. But not with ROCK R3 Pro! Take a look at the perfect camera to LiDAR alignment. By switching between the intensity view (derived from the LiDAR laser scanner) and the RGB view (from the separate camera), we observed a near-perfect overlap. In addition to the excellent calibration, we released our new tool on the ROCK Desktop that provides a user-friendly camera alignment tool. Even if you've handled your system roughly (we're on a drone, after all), it's easy to recalibrate your system back to perfect condition. The ROCK Revolution: Beyond the Runway The success of this case study isn't an isolated incident. With our groundbreaking ROCK Surveyor technology, it is replicable in diverse terrains, whether it's surveying tricky terrain or inspecting power lines across California. At ROCK Robotic, we're pioneering the next generation of LiDAR technology, providing tools that are not just high performing, but also user-friendly and economical. Wrapping Up Well, folks, that's the wrap on our airport runway case study. From an impressive RMS of 0.034 ft to perfect strip alignment and a perfectly synced RGB camera, the ROCK R3 Pro and ROCK Cloud have proven that they are a cut above the rest. Whether it's for surveying tricky terrain or inspecting power lines, you can trust ROCK Robotic for accurate, reliable, and fast LiDAR solutions. Further Reading & Exploring If this case study has sparked your interest in ROCK R3 Pro and you're eager to explore its potential for your applications, we invite you to visit our online store for more information, detailed specs, and easy purchasing options. Experience first-hand how the ROCK R3 Pro can revolutionize your work with its groundbreaking precision and efficiency. For a more visual experience, you can head over to our Indiana Drones YouTube channel. We have a video that delves into the accuracy of the ROCK R3 Pro in an entertaining and informative style. Follow this link to watch the video. Remember, at ROCK Robotic, our mission is to make high-precision LiDAR accessible to everyone. Whether you're a surveying veteran or new to the world of drone mapping, our suite of products and solutions is designed to help you accomplish your goals faster, more accurately, and more economically. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need any assistance. We're always here to help. Until then, happy flying!

  • Power Line Surveying & Management Made Effortless with ROCK Pro Services for PLS-CADD

    ROCK Pro Services is revolutionizing power line design and transmission corridor surveying with its effortless approach to generating PLS-CADD deliverables. With a simple one-click order system, ROCK Pro Services offers a seamless, user-friendly experience for obtaining professional survey deliverables, reviewed and quality-checked by expert GIS analysts. This service is designed to scale to any project size, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. PLS-CADD: The Backbone of Efficient Power Line Design PLS-CADD (Power Line Systems - Computer Aided Design and Drafting) is essential for creating accurate and efficient transmission line designs. It integrates detailed engineering models with terrain data, optimizing power line paths for safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. ROCK Pro Services enhances this process by providing easy access to high-quality PLS-CADD deliverables, essential for any power line project. PLS-CADD is crucial in designing transmission corridors, the lifelines of the electrical grid. ROCK Pro Services ensures a seamless transition from drone LiDAR data to PLS-CADD deliverables, allowing engineers to concentrate on design optimization. Enhancing Efficiency with PLS-CADD PLS-CADD stands out as a game-changer in the realm of power line surveying, primarily due to its effectiveness in handling complex design and analysis tasks. This software excels in creating detailed, three-dimensional models of power lines, encompassing terrain contours, structure placements, and wire sag and tension details. Such comprehensive modeling capabilities enable engineers to make informed decisions, optimize the layout of transmission lines, and foresee potential issues before they arise. The integration of PLS-CADD with ROCK Pro Services further amplifies its efficiency, providing surveyors and engineers with precise, reliable data that forms the backbone of successful power line projects. This synergy between advanced technology and expert service ensures that projects are not only completed with higher accuracy but also in a more time-efficient manner, significantly enhancing the overall productivity and reliability of power line design and maintenance. Streamlining PLS-CADD Deliverables with ROCK Processing Services ROCK Pro Services simplifies the PLS-CADD process, offering customized solutions that cater to all PLS-CADD requirements. This service is backed by a team of seasoned professionals, ensuring that each deliverable, from basic classifications to advanced sag reports, is of the highest quality and integrates seamlessly with ortho imagery. Key Features of ROCK Processing Services: One-Click Ordering: Easy and quick access to professional PLS-CADD deliverables. Expert Review: Each deliverable undergoes a thorough quality control and assurance check by expert GIS analysts. Custom Scalability: Tailored solutions to scale for projects of any size. Synergy of ROCK Cloud and PLS-CADD in Power Line Surveying The collaboration between ROCK Cloud and PLS-CADD represents a significant leap forward in power line surveying and design. ROCK Cloud, with its advanced data processing capabilities, seamlessly feeds high-quality LiDAR data into the PLS-CADD system, bridging the gap between raw data collection and detailed design work. This integration allows for an unprecedented level of precision and efficiency in modeling transmission lines and their environments. By leveraging ROCK Cloud's robust data processing and management tools, PLS-CADD users gain access to a streamlined workflow where data accuracy and ease of use are paramount. This powerful combination not only simplifies the complex process of transmission line design but also ensures that every stage of the project, from initial data capture to final design, is conducted with the utmost precision and care, leading to safer, more reliable, and cost-effective power line installations. Above: ROCK PLS-CADD Demo Dataset in the ROCK Cloud Advantages of Using ROCK Processing Services for PLS-CADD Automation: Streamlines the design process by automating data classification and drafting. Accuracy: Delivers high precision in designs with detailed sag-tension reports and structure analysis. Expert Support: Provides access to ROCK's team for customized solutions and professional support. Cost-Effective: Offers a pay-as-you-go service, enabling effective cost control while scaling project sizes. Conclusion ROCK Pro Services, in conjunction with the ROCK Cloud, offers a comprehensive solution for transforming drone LiDAR data into accurate PLS-CADD deliverables. This combination of sophisticated software and expert service streamlines the design and analysis of transmission lines, paving the way for the future of power line surveying. Contact us to learn more about PLS-CADD, ROCK Pro Services, and the capabilities of the ROCK Cloud now!

  • Planimetric Linework Surveying Deliverables with ROCK Pro Services

    Why wait around for what you need? ROCK Pro Services will process professional deliverables for you, and we'll make sure they're perfect. Every project is quality checked by our team of experts to ensure you get the most out of your data. Need a large-scale custom order? Not a problem, we do it all. Contact us today to get learn more and get started! Expanding Survey Capabilities with the ROCK Robotic The true potential of the ROCK 50 Plan is realized when surveyors choose to expand their deliverables. Through ROCK Pro Services, the ROCK 50 Plan seamlessly grows with your project's demands, offering advanced planimetric mapping services that elevate the detail and utility of your surveys. Understanding Planimetric Mapping Planimetric mapping is the art of rendering a detailed, 2-dimensional picture of an area's layout, capturing the precise horizontal positions of natural and man-made features. This technique is integral to a variety of applications, from urban planning and construction to environmental conservation, providing a clear view of an area's infrastructure and landscape without the complexity of elevation data. The Power of Planimetrics in ROCK Cloud With the ROCK 50 Plan as your foundation, you can harness the power of ROCK Pro Services to order detailed planimetric deliverables. These services translate your raw data into meticulously crafted planimetric maps. This not only spares you the laborious task of manual map creation but also ensures that your deliverables are of the highest quality and precision, thanks to ROCK's superior AI and machine learning algorithms backed by human expertise (QC/QA). Streamlined Planimetric Ordering Ordering planimetric deliverables is a breeze. Simply upload your LiDAR or orthomosaic data to ROCK Cloud, define your area with a bounding box, and ROCK Pro Services will calculate the cost based on the selected acreage. This system ensures you're only billed for the area you need, optimizing your project's budget. Enhancing Efficiency & Accuracy The integration of planimetric services with ROCK Pro Services is not just about expanding capabilities; it's about enhancing efficiency and accuracy in surveying practices. By utilizing these professional planimetric services, surveyors can quickly identify and delineate intricate details of any site, such as utility lines, pavement markings, and vegetation boundaries. Here's a list of the key benefits: Efficiency & Accuracy Enhancement: Planimetric ROCK Pro Services within the ROCK Cloud boost surveying efficiency and accuracy. Detailed Site Analysis: Enables surveyors to identify and delineate intricate site details such as utility lines, pavement markings, and vegetation boundaries. Crucial for Meticulous Planning: Ideal for projects that demand high precision, like roadway designs and property development. Centimeter-Level Accuracy: Ensures planning and decision-making are based on highly reliable data, crucial for urban environments and ecological zones. Ease of Use & Workflow Integration: Simplifies the integration of advanced planimetric services into existing surveying workflows. In-Depth Insights & Comprehensive Data: Allows surveyors to provide more detailed information to clients, stakeholders, and project teams. Innovation & Excellence in Surveying: Demonstrates ROCK Pro Services commitment to advancing surveying technology and practices. Diving Deeper with 2D and 3D Planimetrics Whether your project requires a basic 2D planimetric map or a more comprehensive 3D rendering, ROCK Cloud has you covered. 2D planimetrics provide a flat representation of surface features, while 3D planimetrics bring an additional layer of depth, offering a more immersive view of the landscape with elevation details for each feature, which can be invaluable for complex designs and analyses. Feature Layers in ROCK Planimetrics The precision of ROCK's Planimetric mapping is evident in the extensive list of feature layers available, ranging from basic infrastructure like roads and buildings to nuanced elements like treelines and drainage systems. This diversity in feature layers means that no detail is too small to be captured and represented on your planimetric map. Customization & Support ROCK Pro Services understands the unique needs of different projects, which is why they offer custom feature codes to align with your internal CAD software. Moreover, if any issues arise or revisions are necessary, the responsive ROCK Support Team is always ready to assist and discuss your project's specifics. Conclusion By starting with the ROCK 50 Plan and leveraging the expansive capabilities of ROCK Pro Services for planimetric mapping, surveyors can significantly enhance the scope and detail of their deliverables. This powerful combination ensures that no matter the size or complexity of the project, you have the tools and support to deliver outstanding results. Get professional planimetric linework surveying deliverables with ROCK Cloud Pro Services now!

  • Mastering Drone LiDAR Scanning with ROCK R3 Pro & DJI M300

    Today, we're going to take you on an exciting journey as we explore the process of flying the R3 Pro LiDAR scanner to map buildings using the DJI M300 drone. From mission planning to data processing, we'll cover it all and equip you with the knowledge to capture stunning and accurate 3D point clouds. So, let's dive in! 1. Preparing for the Flight Before heading out to the job site, meticulous mission planning is crucial. We recommend using AirMap or similar platforms to check the airspace and ensure safe drone operations. Familiarize yourself with the terrain to optimize your flight path. For scanning a building, remember to adjust your mission plan to capture not only the top but also the walls. Position the drone outside the walls so the lidar can effectively scan and capture all relevant data. 2. Setting Up the Base Station Once on-site, start by setting up the base station. Choose a location with an unobstructed view of the sky and, if possible, place it on a known survey monument for better post-processing accuracy. 3. Installing R3 Pro LiDAR on DJI M300 Drone Next, prepare the DJI M300 for the flight. Check the drone for any damages and make sure everything is securely fastened. Then, install the R3 Pro LiDAR on the drone. Follow the easy steps for attaching the GPS antenna and lever arm attachment, and you're ready to go. 4. Mission Planning with ROCK Pilot App For mission planning, you can use various apps like ROCK Pilot, DJI Pilot 2, or others compatible with your DJI drone. We recommend ROCK Pilot for its simplicity and real-time data visualization. Draw a polygon covering the area of interest and set the desired AGL height, overlap, and speed. Lower AGL height and slower speed may be ideal for smaller areas like buildings, as you can maximize battery usage. 5. Flying the Mission & Capturing the Data Now comes the exciting part – flying the mission. Take off the base station and start logging data. With ROCK Pilot, the app handles most of the on-ground processes, including calibration flight, making it a breeze. Fly the mission and capture the data using the R3 Pro LiDAR scanner. Keep an eye on the battery level and adjust your flight path if needed. Upon completing the flight, land the drone and stop logging data. 6. Data Processing with ROCK Desktop With all the data collected, it's time to process it using ROCK Desktop. Copy the data onto your local machine and open ROCK Desktop. Process the data, select the flight lines, angle, and range gate, and click "Start Processing." ROCK Desktop will generate a colorized and optimized point cloud, providing a visual representation of the scanned area. 7. Uploading to ROCK Cloud & Generating Deliverables After processing, upload the data to ROCK Cloud. This step is ten times faster when using ROCK Desktop. Now you have access to a range of functionalities like adding ground control points, reprojection, and ordering deliverables such as surveyor planimetrics and powerline data. See the processed point cloud deliverables in the ROCK Cloud: Conclusion And there you have it! Mastering LiDAR Scanning with the ROCK R3 Pro and DJI M300 Drone opens up a world of possibilities for 3D point cloud data collection. From construction and surveying to environmental monitoring and asset inspection, the applications are vast. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you a clear understanding of the process, from planning to delivering results. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start capturing stunning 3D data with your R3 Pro and M300 setup. Reach out to learn more about the ROCK R3 Pro LiDAR!

  • How-To Perform Calibration Flight for ROCK R3 Pro, R360, & R2A

    Are you ready to master the calibration flight for your ROCK R3 Pro, R360, or R2A? In this informative guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process to ensure precise and accurate data collection every time. Let's get started! 1. Turning on the LiDAR and Data Recording Start by turning on the LiDAR unit. Initiate data recording by clicking the record button once and then clicking and holding it. This will activate the data collection process. 2. Waiting for 30 Seconds Allow the system to record static data for a minimum of 30 seconds. The LiDAR lights will blink green during this process, indicating that data collection is in progress. 3. Engaging the Props and Taking Off Move away from the drone and engage the propellers by pushing down and inward on the controller. Gently ascend the drone by pushing up on the left joystick. 4. High-Speed Kinematic Alignment Once you've reached your desired altitude, perform a high-speed kinematic alignment. Push forward on the right joystick and maintain this speed for five seconds. 5. Flying the Figure Eight Pattern After the alignment, use both joysticks to fly a figure eight pattern. Push the right joystick forward and the left joystick to the right to create a loop. Then, reverse the pattern by pushing the left joystick forward and the right joystick to the right. 6. Landing the Drone Once you've completed the figure eight, land the drone by descending slowly. Use the left joystick to control the descent until the propellers are disengaged completely. 7. Recording Static Data (Again) After landing, wait for 30 seconds (up to a minute) and record static data once more to conclude the calibration flight. You can extend this period to get a more robust and localized data set. 8. Turning off the LiDAR Data Collection Finally, turn off the LiDAR data collection by pressing the record button once and then clicking and holding it again. Remember, this calibration process is crucial for obtaining accurate data during your mission. While our ROCK Pilot app automates many of these tasks, having the skills to control the drone manually is valuable. Practice the calibration flight a few times to become proficient, and you'll be all set to tackle your aerial missions with confidence. Happy flying! Visit ROCKR3PRO.com now and experience the best technology in aerial data collection.

  • Insanely Accurate LiDAR: The New ROCK R3 PRO

    Get ready to experience the next level of accuracy and workflow with the new ROCK R3 PRO survey-grade LiDAR system! The R3 PRO is part of our comprehensive LiDAR workflow, and we're excited to get it off the ground. It's a game-changer, and we don't use that term lightly. First, the R3 PRO is 30% lighter than its predecessor, the ROCK R360, weighing in at only 1.2 kg. Plus, with a detachable 26 MP camera and seamless drone integration, it's never been easier to capture precise 3D data. The new ROCK Pilot mission planning app simplifies the workflow even further, allowing you to easily plan and execute missions with the R3 Pro. And when it comes to accuracy, the R3 PRO is hands down the best in class. See the results for yourself in our R3 dataset below. Supporting the R3 PRO, ROCK Desktop allows you to see your data in the field as well as upload a compressed LAZ file directly to ROCK Cloud. This way, you can preview your point cloud results before you go back to the office. ROCK Desktop and the R3 Pro are made for each other. The R3 PRO also features a quick and easy SLAM setup, enabling you to capture 3D data without the need for flying. And when you do take to the skies, the R3 PRO integrates seamlessly with the DJI M300 (as well as other professional-grade drones) and can be controlled from your smart controller, providing real-time data and eliminating the need for manual calibration flights. We've seen the incredible results firsthand, and the accuracy is under 2 cm. Honestly, you won't believe how clean the point clouds are in the datasets. You can merge SLAM and aerial datasets with ease in ROCK Cloud. You can use control points to further enhance the accuracy of your data. The R3 PRO is the next step in ROCK's comprehensive workflow to help scale up your land surveying or 3D mapping business. At ROCK, we offer expert training, live hands-on support, dynamic software, and even the ROCK RTK Network to ensure you have everything you need to complete your 3D mapping projects with ease. Don't miss out – the R3 Pro is available now on the ROCK store and is supported worldwide. So why wait? Start capturing precise 3D data today with the all-new ROCK R3 PRO. ROCK Robotic CEO Harrison Knoll offers his insight, saying: “The ROCK R3 PRO is a major step forward for ROCK Robotic. “It offers better accuracy, better SLAM, a better camera, a lighter payload — basically a better product all around. Not only will our current customers love it, but we’re confident that the R3 will attract new customers who want a great hardware product along with our great software and support.” See Harrison's Indiana Drones channel video about the R3 PRO: Learn more about the R3 PRO here.

  • Case Study: Drone Services Provider Navigates a 2,500-Acre Gold Mine Site in Fiji with ROCK LiDAR

    This project has everything. Gold mines. Volcanoes. Dense vegetation. Treacherous terrain. Wild weather conditions. And drones beaming lasers toward the ground at 720,000 pulses per second. If you ask us, this should be the plot for yet another Indiana Jones sequel. But it’s real life! This aerial LiDAR surveying project actually happened in a remote area of Fiji. While we do intend to give due diligence to this impressive aerial surveying project by the ROCK Stars at Kahuto Pacific, it’s impossible to do so in a dry case study. So, allow us to "geek out" for a minute while sharing the results of this epic endeavor. Project Snapshot ROCK Client: Kahuto Pacific (Suva, Fiji) Kahuto Pacific Client: Canadian mining company operating in Fiji Assignment: The client needed accurate contours for the challenging 2,500-acre site, which includes a large gold-mining operation. Result: Kahuto delivered contours that helped its client determine where to construct key infrastructure features. ROCK Client: Kahuto Pacific in Suva, Fiji Kahuto Pacific specializes in the capture and process of spatial and visual data for the Pacific’s leading engineering, surveying and land development consultants. It utilizes cutting-edge drone and photogrammetry technologies like the ROCK R2A LiDAR to deliver the most effective and compelling solutions, including surveys, inspection and monitoring. Kahuto is emerging as the LiDAR leader in its area of the globe. Equipment Used The Kahuto Pacific team used a DJI M300 drone fitted with a ROCK R2A LiDAR system. The point cloud data was processed with ROCK Cloud software. Problem Kahuto Pacific was hired by a Canadian mining company to provide topographic, aerial LiDAR for 2,500 acres (1,000 hectares) of densely vegetated, mountainous terrain. For context, the campus of Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is 2,500 acres and includes 160 buildings on its mostly flat property. Remove the buildings and add thousands of trees and perilous elevation drop-offs, and you can get a good sense of the area. The site was a massive area full of challenging mountainous terrain (near a volcano, nonetheless). The terrain had dense vegetation throughout much of the area, which usually makes generating topos difficult and/or inaccurate. The client needed bare earth models to aid in determining where key infrastructure elements needed to be built. Most of the area was impassable by vehicles, so equipment was transported via horseback. In addition, heavy rainstorms delayed capturing data and also made the terrain more hazardous to traverse. As if the terrain wasn’t tricky enough, that wasn’t what made the project a big risk for Kahuto Pacific. The company already had a proven track record of successful photogrammetry projects, including aerial surveys of 10,000-acre (40 sq. km) sites, but had never used LiDAR to capture point cloud data. This wasn’t exactly the kind of project you dip your toe in the water for, but the Kahuto team couldn’t resist at least exploring the opportunity. “These guys were a big company that needed a good dataset,” said Christopher Saili, Managing Director of Kahuto Pacific. “They had a lot riding on it, and I could feel it. So we went in all guns blazing and got it done.” Solution Saili and his team had to conduct a prudent round of risk assessment. They turned to ROCK Robotic. At the time, an industry peer / business reference was working for a surveying company that used a ROCK R2A LiDAR scanner and ROCK Cloud for many of its jobs. “The planning — having help from someone who had used ROCK before — helped us go through the process of risk assessment,” Saili offered. “ROCK worked with us to understand what we needed to deliver, from flight height to the placement of the ground control points to post-processing of the data.” Once Saili thoroughly discussed and vetted both the process and the ROCK hardware and software with ROCK, Kahuto Pacific decided to move forward with the gold mine site data capture. “That really helped us realize this was a risk worth taking. There were proven steps to deliver a reliable dataset,” remarked Saili. After scouting and gridding the area, then placing GCPs on horseback, the Kahuto team conducted dozens of drone flights using the DJI M300 and captured point cloud data using the ROCK R2A, until every point of the entire 2,500-acre area was captured. While it’s easy to read the previous sentence as a quick summary of the data-capturing process, it certainly wasn’t easy on the ground. “We were carrying generators, M300s, and big heavy equipment,” Saili recalled. “We were riding on horseback for hours through rainy, steamy, hot, muddy terrain. You’d look up at the sky in the area you’re trekking into, and it would be clear. An hour and a half later, you’d be standing on the mountain, and rain would begin to roll through. That was such a challenge and an adventure. But we were able to deliver.” Results The Kahuto Pacific team processed the datasets in ROCK Cloud and ordered contours and DEMs through ROCK Surveyor. In total, they captured a mind-boggling 5.5 billion points of data. That's "billion" with a "b." Kahuto’s client used the data to tender out the work for their tailings dam and immediately started the design work for their mill site. Once the client got their LiDAR data from Kahuto, their geologist was instantly able to look at it to determine precisely where they needed to drill. “Their eyes lit up once they saw the digital terrain model with the contours overlaid,” Saili shared. “The thing that I’m most pleased about is the ease of use of the LiDAR. We were able to take the hardware and deliver a product for the first time at such challenging terrains and at such a decent scale. A thousand hectares for our first [aerial LiDAR] project with mountainous terrain.” Kahuto Pacific’s first LiDAR project — a 2,500-acre undertaking — was a massive triumph. “Honestly, this was such a big thing for us," Saili commented. "The client is absolutely over the moon with the data we delivered.” “The client is absolutely over the moon with the data we delivered.” — Christopher Saili, Managing Director, Kahuto Pacific The ROCK Support Team often gets questions about the ability for the R2A or R360 to capture accurate point clouds in areas with dense vegetation. The proof is in the pudding here; ROCK LiDAR breaks through tree canopies to deliver stunning, accurate views of vegetation. Saili summed up his experience surveying the gold mine site this way: “The [ROCK] LiDAR made things easy. This project has been incredible end to end — from us using the LiDAR equipment, the client being happy with the data — it’s just been a big, big win.” What’s Next for Kahuto Pacific? Based on the successful delivery of contours for this project, Kahuto Pacific has gotten dozens of large-scale projects from other clients and contractors in and around Fiji. The company plans to expand its aerial LiDAR surveys and drone services to Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, which will allow them to cover the entire Central and Eastern Pacific regions. The sky’s the limit. Visit rockrobotic.com to learn more about our survey-grade LiDAR hardware and processing software.

bottom of page