RIEGL Laser Measurement Systems GmbH and Schiebel have successfully completed the integration of a high-end laser scanning system, the RIEGL VQ-840-G topo-bathymetric LiDAR sensor, on the Schiebel Camcopter S-100 unmanned aircraft system.

Operating a high-end laser scanning system remotely on a UAS requires a tailored solution going beyond what is currently available off the shelf. To maintain the broad operating range of the UAS, it is imperative to keep the weight of the sensor payload low. In addition, the effective execution of the survey mission requires full remote control of the payload instruments and real-time feedback to the operator via a data link.

The compact topo-bathymetric laser scanner was designed for use in a variety of maritime and hydrographic environments. The LiDAR sensor payload system is controlled remotely via a data link, which is a crucial for the integration into the S-100 system.

The scanner is controlled by using the onboard software RiACQUIRE-Embedded, via the available data link; data acquisition and laser safety are also monitored. Once the survey is completed, the raw data seamlessly integrates into the RIEGL data processing workflow.

The RIEGL VQ-840-G, combined with the outstanding technical specifications and performance of the Camcopter S-100 UAS, enables an efficient and secure way for surveying shallow waters, where monitoring from boats becomes a challenge. The applications of Airborne LiDAR Bathymetry include the mapping of coastlines and river banks as well as the monitoring of natural habitats, water reservoirs and hydraulic engineering applications, such as canals, dams and bridges. In a single data acquisition mission, data below and above the water surface are covered.

Additionally, the topographic laser scanners RIEGL VUX-1UAV/-LR and VUX-12023 can be integrated in the front payload bay of the Camcopter S-100.