LiDAR Technology Changing Data for the Better

Technology does not change but evolves. In this fast-paced world, it is expected for new and improved technologies to rise to meet the demands of the next generation. LiDAR has been one of the few forms of technology to consistently see growth in its popularity and advancement in its features. Data is needed in every aspect of engineering projects and studies. Technologies such as LiDAR surveying is helping advance the data needed for these projects and studies to the next level.

​Improved Data Points 
Collecting data is a standard procedure for any engineering project or study. There is no scenario where this procedure would not be taking place regarding engineering. The data, itself, is required and important information, but the quality of the data is what determines the credibility of a project or study. LiDAR surveying allows engineers and scientists better access to higher quality data to be used for their work. Some engineering studies have been faced with roadblocks due to their limited access to the advanced data necessary. Airborne LiDAR, for example, is both cost-effective and thorough in its data collection process. 

​Better Visuals for Better Designs 
What can hinder an engineering project, such as constructing a dam, is the lack of accurate visual data models of the project landscape. In fact, projects have been prolonged past the original end date because there either was no visual model of the landscape, or the visual model was poorly created. Using the data points collected, LiDAR surveying creates accurate visual models of a specified landscape. These 3-D models do not only look at the surface of the landscape but also what lies beneath it. If the engineer constructing a dam used these models, they would be able to view beneath the water’s surface and see the layout of the terrain and create the dam design based on the data provided by these models.