Client
BEAR
Delivery
August 2025
Project Type
Drone Survey and Laser Scanning
Location
A828 Oban
Scope
We were instructed by BEAR Scotland, Trunk Road Operating Company for the North West of Scotland, to conduct a survey of a rockface near Oban. This was part of stabilisation works on the A828 at Ledaig to increase resilience against the effects of extreme weather and potential rockfall on the trunk road.
We were tasked with producing colourised point clouds and capturing hi-res UAV imagery of the rockface to give the client a detailed overview of the current condition of the rockface to help design rock slope stabilisation measures.
Solution
Initially we established a control network using GNSS and total station techniques providing an accurate and recoverable spine from which to base our surveys. Using this control, our team worked on the footpath opposite the rockface and adjacent to the road taking hi-res scans using an SX10 scanning total station. We then conducted a series of UAV flights to acquire detailed survey information of the rockface and immediate surrounding area. We alternated payloads for the flights with LiDAR and RGB cameras capturing hi-res imagery and detailed point clouds of the escarpment with particular focus on the blocks of concern and the gully to the left of the blocks. A key section of the rock face was obscured behind large trees and vegetation, creating shadow areas in both the terrestrial laser scan and UAV data sets. Using our dynamic handheld laser scanner we scanned the rock face below the canopies and tied this dataset to the control network, creating a holistic data set of the escarpment.
This project showcased our team's ability to capture accurate survey data in difficult environments. Using our experience in traditional survey control networks combined with modern mass capture technology we were able to capture an accurate and holistic model of the rock face for our client, from which a variety of 3D outputs could be delivered including traditional topographic surveys, 3D mesh models and CAD sections, high resolution point clouds, detailed inspection imagery and orthomosaics.
Benefits
Using UAV LiDAR and photogrammetry techniques along with GNSS, total stations and modern handheld mobile laser scanners allowed us to build a complete picture of the rockface and surrounding areas for the client.
- Comprehensive, highly detailed point cloud of the rockface
- Accurate data for stabilisation works
- Multiple deliverables from one mobilisation
- Safe and efficient survey of inaccessible terrain using UAVs
- Bespoke solution combining multiple surveying techniques
This project was an interesting one for us, blending tradition and technology to provide practical and accurate data for the client. At Adaptive, we specialise in bespoke solutions. Our surveyors are fully qualified to operate some of the most advanced technology on the market allowing us to gather data in locations which have been traditionally inaccessible to surveyors.
The sky is the limit, get in touch with us today to find out how we can elevate your insight.