Frequently Asked Aquestions
Mapping
Photogrammetry uses overlapping images taken from different angles to reconstruct 3D models or maps of landscapes, buildings, or objects. Images are processed with the use of specialized computer software to create detailed orthophotos, elevation models, contour maps and 3D models. Engineers and Project Management firms use these maps to perform measurements of area, segmented line distances, slope angles, utility right-of-ray boundaries and many other functions. Photogrammetry is widely used in topographic mapping, urban planning and infrastructure and disaster response.
Photogrammetry mapping, for use in an overview of an area, does not require certified accuracy since this mapping product will not be used to file legal paperwork for boundary lines, earthwork or precise measurements. It is simply used by the client as a rough outline of property for which they are interested. Hover Visions LLC can provide such a product, using GIS related equipment to provide accuracy between 5 to 9 centimeters on both the horizontal and vertical axis.
Photogrammetry mapping for use in survey work requires the use of a licensed Professional Land Surveyor or licensed Professional Engineer depending on each state’s requirements. This will ensure mapping results are certified by a licensed authority for legal filings of property boundaries as well as accurate measurements of area, segment lengths, slope and contour areas. It is important to understand that Hover Visions LLC is NOT a professional land surveyor firm and cannot provide professional surveyor services. However, we do have a long-term working relationship with a local licensed Professional Land Surveyor and/or licensed Professional Engineer to provide this service in the event a mapping survey is needed. We are glad to work with other GIS personnel if a potential client has access to their own surveying professionals.
Photogrammetry mapping is a perfect process for areas of open ground, light vegetation and light tree canopies. Very accurate results can be obtained in this type of environment and will benefit the client as a cheaper product than the use of LiDAR scanning.
LiDAR scan mapping is the better sensor for projects that have moderate to heavy tree or tall grassy areas, consistent contour slopes within the project area, processing topography mapping and providing better position accuracy.
If you are considering whether to use photogrammetry or LiDAR for a project, Hover Visions is here to assist you in your decision making.
Equipment and Sensors
We currently have 2-DJI M300, 3-DJI M350, 1-DJI M30T and 1-Dji Matrice 4T quadcopters. For projects larger than 150 acres, we have a Quantum Systems Trinity Pro fixed wing Vertical Takeoff and Landing aircraft. This fleet of aircraft allows us to use the best equipment for each individual project with the ability to use the best aircraft for your project.
Hover Visions currently uses EO/IR sensors for use in image data capture, industrial inspections, commercial roofing inspections and assistance to local fire, police and emergency organizations. We own and operate 3-LiDAR sensors for accurate, survey grade, mapping services. Additionally, we own and operate 1-Methane Detection sensor for use in methane mapping of natural gas pipelines and distribution facilities as well as for landfill methane detection and mapping. For photogrammetry purposes, we operate 5 separate RGB (photo) sensors ranging from 20 megapixel to 61 megapixel in resolution.
If you are not sure what type of sensor you need for your project, call or email us with information on what your expectations are for your project and we will be glad to give you the options we feel are the best. Our goal is to assist potential clients with obtaining the results you expect for the best price.
Data Security
Projects flown are processed on a company desktop system connected to a VPN. Any and all images, maps, files or written information about a project are uploaded into our cloud service and a link is supplied to the client. This service is protected with a 256-bit, 2-Step Authentication encrypted system to ensure the best data security. Unlike Google, Facebook, Meta, Amazon, Instagram, etc., you do not have to sign in to anything, take time out of your day to pick and choose which data you wish to protect. We are not interested in skimming data from you or about you. It is your data, and you can share it with anyone you wish.
Pricing for Projects
Each service we provide has its own pricing structure based on client wishes. Size of the project, the relative difficulty of the project, which types of sensors are needed to perform the work properly, deployment of personnel to the work site and post-processing work performed after capturing the images necessary to complete the job correctly, are a few of the factors that go into our pricing schedule. Too many times, we see companies give pricing based on a per hour rate, however, these published rates do not explain how many hours it takes to complete the project at hand. This is the reason we are more than happy for you to contact us about a potential project, for a no cost, no obligation price quote. We will ask for specific information about your project, do an on-site inspection and provide a pricing quote that will be an all-inclusive quote and no hidden costs.
Pilot Qualifications
All pilots flying for Hover Visions LLC, must meet the following qualifications:
- Current or former Firefighter, Police Officer, Emergency Management personnel or Military personnel.
- Manned aircraft pilot holding at least a FAA Private Pilot certification and at least 200 hours of documented flight time as a pilot in command
- FAA Remote Pilot Part 107 certificate and at least 200 hours of documented flight time as a pilot in command
- At least 5 years operating within the National Incident Command system.
- At least 5 years’ experience with GIS systems and use of RTK/ PPK systems.
These minimum qualifications, coupled with a spotless criminal record, will assure our clients that any and all pilots are professional operators and qualified to perform the work required with the regulatory laws of the Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Homeland Security as well as State and Local regulations.
Insurance
Yes, Hover Visions LLC carries a $2-million-dollar liability insurance policy through Aviation Global Insurance Company. This ensures that our clients are protected from legal responsibility in the event of an accident. All UAV (drone) companies should carry a minimum of $1 million in liability insurance. If they do not, the legal liability for an accident can fall back on the client.