TrueView LiDAR in Action: Highlights from the Pittsburgh LiDAR Tour Stop with T3 Global Strategies
The recent Pittsburgh LiDAR Tour stop was a great event, bringing together industry professionals, showcasing TrueView LiDAR technology, and demonstrating how to process data in LP360 software. Attendees were also able to experience a demonstration of the TrueView GO handheld scanner, and we showcased a point cloud of Point State Park (see the video below).
At the event, we had the pleasure of featuring T3 Global Strategies, a geospatial services firm based in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania. Celebrating 25 years of industry experience, T3 Global is recognized for delivering precise and reliable geospatial data to clients across various sectors, from transportation to government projects. During the event, the T3 team shared their experience using GeoCue’s TrueView LiDAR sensors and LP360 software, highlighting how these tools help them maintain the highest standards in the field.
A Legacy of Precision and Innovation
Founded as a photogrammetric mapping firm, T3 Global Strategies prides itself on its expertise in aerial and mobile mapping, bringing decades of knowledge to its work. In their presentation, Michael Joos, Director of Business Development at T3, explained that T3 was a “late adopter” of UAV-based LiDAR mapping—a strategic choice to ensure the technology met their high standards for precision and accuracy.
Today, T3 Global Strategies’ work includes LiDAR acquisition and data processing across various platforms—manned, unmanned, mobile, and terrestrial. TrueView and LP360 have become critical components of T3’s workflow, providing reliable tools to uphold data standards in competitive markets.
Why TrueView and LP360?
Dan Hruska, the Director of Unmanned Aerial Services at T3 Global Strategies, discussed their choice to standardize their UAV fleet with TrueView 535 LiDAR sensors and DJI M300 drones. The TrueView system and the LP360 software have proven indispensable for T3’s diverse project needs. Dan recalled the difficulties faced by previous hardware providers, particularly the lack of responsive support. GeoCue’s commitment to customer service has been a game-changer for T3 Global Strategies, with the technical support team always ready to assist with field-based queries and troubleshooting.
Volume Computation and Road Mapping: Key Applications
One of the standout use cases T3 Global Strategies shared involved volume computations, particularly for transportation projects. Dan illustrated this by explaining a road-mapping project where T3 provided data for road grading and earthwork calculations—essential information for determining volumes and planning excavation.
In another road project, T3 had to remap a four-mile stretch of highway. Using TrueView LiDAR, they could identify discrepancies in terrain elevation, which directly impacted the volume of earth that would need to be moved. This level of precision helps T3’s clients avoid costly errors and stay on schedule.
Achieving Reliable Data Consistency
Sean Quillen, the Director of Geospatial Services explained that the repeatability of TrueView’s LiDAR systems has enabled T3 Global to handle large projects confidently. Having reliable equipment allowed the team to complete over 70 projects in a single year, each one meeting stringent accuracy requirements.
Sean highlighted the benefits of using TrueView and LP360 in combination, noting how LP360’s user-friendly interface makes data processing straightforward. T3’s technicians can follow a streamlined workflow in LP360, quickly generating accurate deliverables for each project.
Integration with Photogrammetry
A unique aspect of T3 Global Strategies’ process is their integration of LiDAR data with stereo photogrammetry. Using stereo photogrammetry combined with LiDAR, they create comprehensive, three-dimensional models that offer an in-depth view of the surveyed areas, capturing critical details such as buildings, utilities, and other infrastructure.
This approach is beneficial in projects where visibility is obstructed by dense vegetation. Sean also explained how they could seamlessly merge LiDAR data with traditional photogrammetric techniques to create highly detailed topographic maps.
Flexible and Adaptable for Varied Environments
TrueView’s adaptability across different environments was showcased in their second use case, which involved a terrestrial scan on a heavily trafficked road. In this scenario, T3 Global Strategies needed precise data for drainage analysis and road condition assessment, which required them to avoid traffic while still capturing accurate point cloud data.
Using the TrueView 535, T3 Global Strategies was able to map the road’s surface with sub-centimeter accuracy, providing essential data for planning maintenance and repair work.
In-the-Field Support and Training
One of the critical factors that influenced T3’s decision to choose GeoCue products was the level of support provided. The team appreciates the comprehensive training resources, including both in-person sessions and online videos, which allow them to maintain high standards in their operations. As Michael put it, having real-time access to technical support, especially when out in the field, is invaluable. GeoCue’s quick response times and accessible training resources ensure their staff can address issues promptly, minimizing downtime and improving efficiency.
Thank you to everyone who came out to this LiDAR Tour stop and special thanks to T3 Global Strategies for their great presentation. Stayed tuned for more details on where and when we’ll be having our next LiDAR Tour stop!