Land surveying and mapping

Geospatial mapping is a powerful method to envisage spatial data. This type of survey enables the creation of customised maps, tailored to specific needs. The aim is to represent items with geographic coordinates within a geographic framework. This provides us with a visual representation of the physical world.

With the advent of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and advanced geospatial technologies, geospatial mapping has evolved into a sophisticated tool to analyse geospatial data.

Today within Fugro, it plays a crucial role in numerous fields. Urban planners use our insight to build cities fit for purpose. Over time, geospatial data gives us a clear picture how air, water, and soil quality is changing. This unparalleled insight into the geospatial data relationships shapes our world.

We can assist you with any mapping and survey requirements, including recommending the right survey type for your project. Surveying is a diverse field that encompasses several specialised types, each serving a unique purpose.

Land surveying is the most well-known. It involves the precise determination of property boundaries. This type of surveying is essential for real estate transactions, construction projects, and legal disputes.

Geodetic surveying focuses on measuring large portions of the Earth’s surface, considering the curvature of the Earth. This type of surveying is crucial for creating accurate maps and models of the Earth’s surface.

Cadastral surveying involves the creation of detailed maps and plans of land ownership. This information is essential for property registration and land management.

Topographic surveying measures the shape and features of the Earth’s surface, providing detailed information about the terrain. This includes mapping the surface features of an area, including natural elements and man-made structures. A topographic survey will plot terrain elevation, bodies of water, vegetation, roads, buildings and more.

We use advanced technologies such as lidar, drones, and satellite imagery to conduct high-precision topographic surveys. Each type of surveying plays a vital role in various industries, from civil engineering to environmental conservation.

Boundary surveying, like land surveying, specifically focuses on determining the exact boundaries of a property.

Geospatial data is a cornerstone of geospatial land mapping. This includes any locational information, such as addresses, ZIP codes, or latitude and longitude coordinates. We analyse this data using a variety of techniques to uncover patterns and relationships between different spatial features.

Urban planning utilises geospatial data and GIS in several ways. It helps optimise the layout of cities, or environmental monitoring, where it can track changes in ecosystems over time.

In emergency response, geospatial data analytics provides insight into the best routes for evacuation. By analysing the geospatial data, cities can identify the most affected areas needing aid. By applying statistical techniques, geospatial data analytics transforms raw data into actionable insights, enabling better decision-making and more efficient resource management.

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is an advanced computer system designed for capturing, storing, querying, analysing, and displaying geospatial data. GIS is not just a single tool but a comprehensive process that involves the systematic gathering, storing, analysing, and presenting of geographic information. This process helps users gain valuable insights, make informed decisions, and solve complex spatial problems.

A typical GIS consists of several key components: hardware, software, data, and people. The hardware includes the physical devices used to collect and process data, while the software provides the tools for data analysis and visualisation.

The data component encompasses all the geospatial information that is collected and managed, and the people component refers to the skilled professionals who operate the system and interpret the results. Together, these components enable GIS to provide a powerful platform for geospatial data analysis and decision-making.

At Fugro, we harness the power of advanced geospatial technologies and surveying techniques. Working across our global network, we deliver precise and reliable geospatial data for our clients. Our methods have evolved from traditional triangulation and levelling. Today, we work with cutting-edge innovations that drive efficiency and accuracy in every project.

Modern Instruments and Techniques

At Fugro, we have access to state-of-the-art tools for accurate and precise land mapping and surveying. We have total stations, used to combine electronic distance measurement with angle measurement. Our GPS technology leverages satellite signals for pinpoint accuracy. These instruments allow us to measure distances, angles, and elevations with unmatched precision.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

We integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to enhance data collection, management, and analysing. Our GIS capabilities enable us to picture complex geospatial information, aiding informed decision-making across various industries.

Remote Sensing Technologies

We also employ advanced remote sensing technologies, such as aerial photography and satellite imagery, to efficiently gather data over expansive areas. These methods ensure rapid and accurate data collection, enabling us to deliver timely insights to our clients.

Advanced Surveying

Our commitment to innovation in surveying has transformed how data is collected and analysed. Fugro aim to support better decision-making in infrastructure development, environmental assessments, and resource management. We provide our clients with the most reliable and advanced surveying solutions tailored to their specific needs.

With our expertise in surveying techniques and technologies we can enhance your project outcomes.

At Fugro, we employ advanced lidar technology to capture high-resolution geospatial data, providing unparalleled accuracy in surveying and mapping projects.

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) enables the collection of extremely detailed topographic information. To collect this data, lidar emits laser pulses to measure distances and generate 3D models of the Earth's surface. lidar technology offers precision from afar, allowing us to map spaces that may seem out of reach.

This technology is faster, better and more accurate than we’ve had before. In March 2021 Fugro was commissioned to enhance the existing United States Geological Survey (USGS) lidar data. The survey area spanned 83,184 square miles (215,446 square kilometres).

The point cloud data was classified 39 % faster than would have been possible using traditional techniques, whilst also improving overall accuracy.

Our cutting-edge geospatial technologies play a critical role in modern surveying. These tools allow us to create accurate 3D models and maps that highlight environmental factors. Accurate models are essential for understanding complex geospatial themes, patterns, and trends. Finally, providing actionable insights for industries ranging from infrastructure development to environmental monitoring.

To enhance data collection, we integrate lidar with GPS and drones, enabling efficient and precise surveys over large areas. This combination allows us to capture high-quality data even in challenging terrains, significantly improving the accuracy of analysing geospatial data. The integration of these technologies also enables faster data acquisition, reducing project timelines without compromising on quality.

By integrating advanced technologies such as lidar, drones, and satellite imagery, we create highly accurate and dynamic digital replicas of physical assets and environments. These digital twins provide a real-time, interactive platform for monitoring, analysing, and decision-making. In turn, enabling clients to optimise operations, enhance safety, and make environmentally conscious choices for the future.

We tailored our digital twin solutions to meet the specific needs of various industries. From infrastructure and urban planning to environmental management, Fugro's mapping and survey solutions offers unparalleled insights and efficiencies.