Phoenix Aerial Systems has introduced the Scout, a real-time kinematic (RTK) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) LiDAR system featuring the Velodyne VLP-16 puck.
The new Phoenix Aerial Scout is an ideal solution for both new entrants and experienced firms looking to offer an aerial LiDAR solution for jobs considered too small for conventional LiDAR systems, the company explains.
The system weighs 1.85 kg (4 lbs.), minimizing UAV power usage and maximizing flight time. The Velodyne VLP-16 puck features 16 lasers spread out over a 30-degree vertical field of view and a 120-meter range. The system also captures up to 300,000 measurements per second and up to 600,000 per second in dual return mode.
The Scout includes Phoenix Aerial’s proprietary software suite, which allows operators to view a high-definition 3D point cloud in real time and guarantees minimal data gaps, as well as proper vegetation penetration, according to the company.
In addition to LiDAR, the Scout also includes an RTK photogrammetry option, giving users the ability to deliver LiDAR plus industrial-grade RGB/NIR imagery data simultaneously.
Although designed for aerial use, the Scout can also be mounted to ground vehicles or can be used for handheld mapping applications.
The system is available for pre-order, either from Phoenix Aerial direct or in its network of approved resellers. Shipping is expected for early December.
