/ Architectural Design / Services

Sample Spatial Data

Representative Outputs, Equipment & Survey Approach for Aerial LiDAR and 3D Documentation Projects

Request a quote
UAV scanning terrain with LiDAR to build a 3D surface model

/ Sample Spatial Data

This page presents representative examples of spatial data outputs, equipment, and survey methods used in our aerial LiDAR and 3D documentation projects.

It is intended to help clients understand:

  • The type of outputs we deliver
  • The formats in which data is shared
  • The equipment and platforms typically deployed
  • The general survey process and limitations associated with aerial data capture

01

3D Model Outputs (Surface & Feature Models)

We produce three-dimensional surface and feature models representing visible terrain and exposed features captured during aerial surveys.

Formats

  • OBJ
  • GLB
  • FBX

These formats are compatible with

  • GIS platforms
  • 3D viewers
  • Web-based visualization tools
  • Reporting and presentation workflows

Delivery

  • Secure cloud links
  • Web-hosted viewers (for review and reference)
  • Downloadable files for local use
3D surface model of an archaeological site from an aerial survey
3D feature model of a vegetated hill
3D surface model of a hillside town

02

LiDAR Point Cloud Outputs

LiDAR point clouds capture three-dimensional spatial measurements of terrain and visible surfaces using aerial laser scanning.

Formats

  • LAS / LAZ
  • PTX / PTS (where applicable)

Typical uses

  • Terrain analysis
  • Surface interpretation
  • Generation of derived products (e.g., hillshades, contours, meshes)
  • Archival documentation

Point cloud data is delivered digitally via secure cloud storage.

LiDAR point cloud and elevation model showing landslides
Point cloud views of an excavation site

03

UAV (Drone) Platforms

We conduct surveys using multirotor UAV platforms suitable for low-altitude, high-resolution spatial documentation.

Typical UAV categories include

  • Custom-built multirotor platforms
  • Commercial multirotor UAVs of comparable capability

Equivalent UAV platforms may be deployed depending on site conditions, logistics, and operational requirements.

Custom-built multirotor UAV with a LiDAR payload
Commercial multirotor UAV for aerial surveys

04

LiDAR Sensors

Our surveys utilize compact UAV-mounted LiDAR sensors designed for aerial terrain and surface documentation.

Sensor selection may vary based on

  • Project scope
  • Site accessibility
  • Environmental conditions

Final outputs remain consistent with agreed delivery formats regardless of sensor model.

Compact UAV-mounted LiDAR sensor

05

Survey Process (High-Level Overview)

Our typical aerial survey workflow includes

  • Review of client-provided site boundaries
  • Flight planning and on-site assessment
  • Aerial data capture using visual line-of-sight (VLOS) UAV operations
  • Data processing and generation of spatial outputs
  • Digital delivery of agreed datasets

Surveys focus on visually clear terrain and exposed features observable from the air.

Diagram of the LiDAR data acquisition process with UAV, GPS and ground station

06

Derived Visual Outputs (Representative)

In addition to raw data, we may provide derived visual products to support interpretation and reporting, such as:

  • LiDAR-derived hillshade images
  • Orthographic (top-down) views of survey areas
  • Representative screenshots for documentation

These outputs assist in visual analysis and communication of site features.

LiDAR-derived hillshade images compared side by side
LiDAR hillshade of a terrain survey area
Orthographic hillshade view of a survey area with scale bar

07

General Disclaimer & Limitations

Aerial LiDAR and drone-based 3D documentation are subject to inherent technical and environmental limitations.

Factors that may affect results include

  • Vegetation density (trees, shrubs, ground cover)
  • Surface visibility
  • Weather and wind conditions
  • Terrain complexity
  • Stage of excavation or site exposure

Areas with dense vegetation or surfaces not visible from the air may produce limited or no usable data. Submerged or underwater features are outside the scope of standard aerial LiDAR surveys.

All outputs are provided for documentation, interpretation, and research purposes, and are not intended for certified engineering or construction use unless explicitly stated.

08

Use of Sample Data

The examples shown on this page are illustrative only and are intended to demonstrate:

  • Output formats
  • Typical level of detail
  • General visualization style

Actual project deliverables may vary depending on site conditions and agreed scope.

/ Get a free consultation

Planning a survey?
Contact us.

For project-specific deliverables, equipment selection, or survey planning, please contact us to discuss your requirements.

/ Back to service

Architectural Design