Aerial Ground Control

Hitting the Target: Setting Ground Control with Bad Elf Flex

Author Nikolas Smilovsky

Words: 427 | Reading Time: 5 Minutes

Leveraging the Bad Elf Flex GNSS for drone data collection requires precision. Ground control targets (GCTs/GCPs) play a crucial role in achieving high-accuracy results. They serve as reference points on the ground, enabling the alignment and calibration of aerial data with real-world coordinates. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for setting GCTs using the Bad Elf Flex GNSS, ensuring your drone data collection meets the highest standards of accuracy.

Why Ground Control is Important

  • Enhances Accuracy: GCTs correct and validate the position of aerial imagery.
  • Ensures Consistency: Guarantees that data from different flights aligns within the same coordinate system.
  • Improves Reliability: Increases confidence in the data’s precision, especially for mapping, construction, and agricultural projects.
Best Management Practices

Preparing for Setup

Before heading to the field, ensure you have:

  • Bad Elf Flex GNSS receiver
  • Survey-grade poles for mounting receivers
  • High-visibility ground control markers
  • Mobile device with Bad Elf Flex app installed

Setting Up Ground Control Targets

1. Plan Your GCT Layout

  • Identify Locations: Choose flat, unobstructed areas easily visible from the air.
  • Spacing: Ensure markers are spread evenly across the survey area.

2. Place Your Ground Control Markers

  • Visibility: Position markers where they can be clearly seen by the drone.
  • Secure Placement: Fix markers firmly to prevent movement.

3. Position the Bad Elf Flex GNSS

  • Set Up Base Station: Place the Bad Elf Flex GNSS on a survey pole at one of your GCT locations. Ensure it has a clear view of the sky.
  • Connect to Mobile Device: Use the Bad Elf Flex app to link the GNSS receiver with your smartphone or tablet.

4. Collect GCT Data

  • Record Coordinates: For each GCT, record precise coordinates using the Bad Elf Flex GNSS.
  • Accuracy Check: Ensure each GCT’s location data meets your project’s accuracy requirements.

5. Synchronize Data

  • Transfer GCT Coordinates: Use the Bad Elf app to sync GCT data to your mobile device.
  • Prepare for Flight: Ensure all GCTs are recorded before launching your drone survey.

6. After the flight

  • Data Processing: Input GCT coordinates into your drone mapping software.
  • Correction: Use GCT data to adjust and calibrate the aerial survey data.

Conclusion

Setting ground control targets with the Bad Elf Flex GNSS is a straightforward process that significantly boosts the accuracy of drone data collection. By following these steps, you ensure your aerial survey data is precise, reliable, and ready for in-depth analysis. Whether for mapping, construction, or agricultural planning, the combination of drone technology and ground control points established with Bad Elf Flex GNSS is an unbeatable duo for high-accuracy results. For more information please email GET@bad-elf.com.