Making the move from Yuneec to DJI

[BenClinch]

Hi I am making the move from a Yuneec 520H to at Matrice 4DT (arriving mid week)

I am needing a UAV that can undertake wildlife surveying (thermal) as well as moderately accurate 2D mapping for forest management work (the IP55 rating is also very welcome for Scottish conditions too). I understand that the DT is not as good as the DE for super accurate mapping, but I am only needing around 3m accuracy for most applications rather than sub metre work,

I understand that there may be work arounds to maximise performance of a shutterless camera such as increased overlap and the use of GCP's. Would be grateful of any further tips in this regard.

cheers
Ben

 

[jaja6009]

Welcome!

The 4DT is a solid choice. For your accuracy needs, the 4DT will suffice.
Like you mentioned, it does not have the mechanical shutter or the better Micro 4/3 sensor for mapping. But it can still map like any drone with GPS tagged images.

You will not need GCPs if you only need accuracy measured in feet. The GCPs are only needed if you need centimeter accuracy and then you would also add check points to prove your accuracy.
Just choose your flight route and overlap depending on the mission type and data output ie. orthomap, 3D model, ultra low GSD 3D model. Usually the default overlap works except in cases where the target may be too homogeneous such as forests, crop fields etc. After you process forest areas a few times you will get an idea of what your overlap will need to be. In forest areas you can also try oblique imagery or flying at a higher altitude to increase FOV and allow the software to be able to find more points to create.

A thing to take note of is your images will be tagged in ellipsoid for altitude whether you use RTK or not. Factor that into whatever photogrammetry software you will be using since any map you make will then be ellipsoid instead of orthometric elevations.

Other members here are using a Matrice for a similar use case. If you checkout the Eurobodalla Koala Project thread, that member is using a Matrice 4T for finding koalas and has just had a successful first mission using the new Patrol Route. They are also flying with the sun down to give the thermal sensor the best ability to find the animals without having to worry about the sun and solar loading of the surrounding areas.