Calibration

Pre-calibration before going to a site to collect data can ensure consistency without systematic error for both pre-flight and post processing. We advise that one should calibrate their sensors in house or on a test site so that our clients do not run into mistakes and can be confident in their data.

Sensors to calibrate:

IMU - This sensor controls the roll and pitch of the aircraft. Calibration must be performed on a flat surface so the sensor can understand its heading reference. This is achieved by using a combination of accelerometers, gyroscopes and magnetometers usually built into the device.

GPS - Controls the spatial reference by communicating with satellites in constellation to triangulate the position of the aircraft. Usually calibrated by rotating the aircraft in different directions to locate true north.

Camera - Typically done by taking a series of pictures out in the field area where the survey or work is being done, this can help negate systematic radial and tangential distortion in a project. We advise using a board / template like this one displayed below to take pictures of while in the field of interest so that any environmental or sun-related irregularities are taken into account in the pre-calibration of the imagery.

LiDAR - A boresight calibration is typically done by flying over a site with specific reflective markers set out in a special flight plan, which can then use the data and post process the information to create a profile for future projects. Typically the user sends the sensor back to the manufacturer for deeper calibration every couple years to ensure consistency.

Transmitter - A controller (transmitter) and receiver should be calibrated before every flight to ensure stick movement and signal between antennas are stable otherwise this can cause unstable flight.

Note: Most calibration for these sensors are listed by the manufacturer or are built into flight software to ensure consistency and flight safety. We advise reading through flight checks before flying and abiding by FAA Regulations before proceeding with flight plans.