Double Grid Pattern vs Single Grid Pattern: Which is best for your project

Double grid pattern used for aerial mapping purposes.

Double Grid Pattern vs Single Grid Pattern in Surveying, Engineering, and Construction: Which is Best?

     Aerial mapping and photogrammetry are essential tools in the surveying, engineering, and construction industries toolkit. The choice of flight patterns during aerial mapping can significantly impact the accuracy and quality of the data obtained. When it comes to aerial mapping and photogrammetry in these industries, two common flight patterns are used: the double grid pattern and the single grid pattern. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each pattern can help you determine which one is best for your specific project requirements.

What is a Double Grid Pattern in Surveying, Engineering, and Construction?

     The double grid pattern, also known as the overlapping grid pattern, is a flight pattern where the pilot flies two parallel lines in opposite directions over the area of interest. This results in a high level of overlap between the images captured, with each area of the ground being captured by two or more images. The high overlap is crucial for creating accurate 3D models of the terrain, which are essential in surveying, engineering, and construction projects. The double grid pattern is ideal for projects where a high level of detail is required, such as in the case of large construction sites in need of volumetric calculations (think cut/fill maps,building height verification, poured concrete volumes,building heights for downspouts…), mines,forests, and volumetric stockpile reporting where a high degree of accuracy is necessary for design work, planning purposes, and verification of volume based inventory.

What is a Single Grid Pattern in Surveying, Engineering, and Construction?

The single grid pattern, also known as the parallel grid pattern, is a flight pattern where the pilot flies parallel lines over the area of interest with little to no overlap between the images captured. This pattern is more efficient, as it covers a larger area with fewer images, making it ideal for projects where speed and cost are a concern. However, the lack of overlap between the images makes it challenging to create an accurate 3D model of the terrain, making it less suitable for photogrammetry. The single grid pattern is ideal for projects where a large area needs to be covered quickly, such as in the case of agricultural, construction progress, or environmental monitoring projects, where the focus is on monitoring and mapping changes over time. Single grid is also valuable for real estate mapping to determine damages that may have been caused by inclement weather.

Choosing the Right Pattern for Your Surveying, Engineering, and Construction Project

     The choice of whether to use a double grid pattern or a single grid pattern in surveying, engineering, and construction depends on the specific requirements of the project. The double grid pattern is ideal for projects where a high level of detail is required, while the single grid pattern is best for projects where speed and cost are a concern. Often you will find yourself using the double grid pattern because surveyor’s and engineers will require a surface model or contour information which means volumetric data is required.

     In surveying and engineering projects, the double grid pattern is often used for creating accurate 3D models of terrain and structures, as well as for creating orthomosaics. The high overlap between the images ensures that all details are captured, which is crucial for planning and design purposes.

     In construction projects, the double grid pattern is useful for creating accurate maps of the site, monitoring progress, and ensuring that all structures are built according to plan. The high level of detail captured by the double grid pattern allows for efficient monitoring and tracking of construction progress.

    For environmental and agricultural monitoring projects, the single grid pattern is often the preferred choice. The ability to cover a large area quickly makes it easier to monitor changes over time, while the lack of overlap between images helps to reduce the cost of data collection. Though for flood plain delineation double grid pattern is best. You want the most accuracy you can get for this because volumes are involved.

     In conclusion, the choice of flight pattern in aerial mapping and photogrammetry in surveying, engineering, and construction depends on the specific requirements of the project. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each pattern can help you determine which one is best for your specific needs. Whether you choose a double grid pattern or a single grid pattern, the use of aerial mapping and photogrammetry can provide valuable data for your project, making it easier to achieve your goals and reach your objectives.