In order to create a highly detailed Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the road between Ibra and Sur in Oman, COWI has conducted an aerial laser scanning. A laser scanner, so called LiDAR(Light Detection And Ranging), has been mounted in one of COWIs aircraft.

Cost-effective techniques

With the development of LiDAR surveying techniques and digital aerial photography, possibilities have opened up for an efficient approach to the survey task which significantly reduces production time and provides quick access to areas previously inaccessible.
The method has been used with succes on the Ibra-Sur road project in Oman.

Production of orthophotos Aaerial digital photos of the same area have also been taken during the flight. COWI produces orthophotos with a pixel resolution of 5 cm which will be used as base map, where all objects as small as 10cm can be seen.

A combination of detailed and accurate geographical data and LiDAR surveying is a cost-efficient and time-saving alternative to the
traditional ground-based measurement for road construction projects.