Design Matters: FOCUS Engineering Leads the Way in Construction Staking with Drone Technology

What if you could survey a complex construction site in half the time, with greater accuracy and less risk? At FOCUS Engineering & Surveying, Carson Griffin, Survey Crew Chief, and his team are making that possible. By combining cutting-edge drone technology with years of expertise, they’re redefining construction staking for projects of all sizes. While drone technology is increasingly being utilized across the AEC industry, FOCUS Engineering & Surveying sets itself apart by maximizing its potential through innovative workflows and a commitment to precision.

Transforming Construction Staking with Drones

At FOCUS, drones are incorporated early in the planning stage. They capture high-resolution aerial imagery and generate detailed topographic maps, which are essential for marking precise locations on job sites. “The data collected by drones ensures precision and reduces errors, which are crucial for successful construction projects,” Carson explains.

Drones address several challenges that traditional methods face. Their bird’s-eye view allows surveyors to efficiently cover large or hard-to-reach areas while improving safety by eliminating the need to physically navigate difficult terrains. The comprehensive data collected by drones enhances the quality of surveys, making them a valuable tool for construction projects of all sizes.

The benefits of using drones for construction staking are multifaceted:

• Accuracy: Drones provide precise, high-resolution imagery and real-time data, ensuring superior survey accuracy.
• Efficiency: By speeding up data collection, drones reduce project timelines and labor costs.
• Cost-Effectiveness: With less time and fewer resources required, drones deliver high-quality results while staying budget-friendly.

Carson recalls a memorable project in the mountains. “Using a drone to survey a mountainous area saved us significant time and provided a comprehensive view that traditional methods couldn’t match,” he shares.

Overcoming Surveying Challenges with Drone Solutions

While drones offer significant advantages, they come with limitations. Weather conditions and regulatory restrictions can occasionally hinder our use. “We plan flights around optimal weather and ensure compliance with all regulations,” Carson explains. FOCUS also maintains backup plans, employing traditional surveying methods when necessary to ensure projects remain on track.

To meet the accuracy demands of complex projects, FOCUS uses high-quality, calibrated drones integrated with advanced software. “High-quality equipment and thorough team training are key to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of our drone surveys,” Carson emphasizes. Regular maintenance and rigorous team training further ensure the reliability of the technology.

Drone Data Streamlines Collaboration

Drone data has transformed collaboration with clients and partners. By creating high-resolution maps and 3D models, the FOCUS staking team provides clear, detailed visuals that enhance communication between surveyors, engineers, and contractors. Carson notes that clients are often impressed with the deliverables, which not only showcase the precision of the technology but also highlight the team’s dedication to delivering actionable project insights.

Leveraging Technology to Improve Efficiency

Incorporating technology is key to enhancing efficiency and precision in structural design. At FOCUS, the team leverages advanced design software to streamline processes. Combined with a strong emphasis on customer service and prompt follow-up.
Our engineers continually explore emerging technologies to enhance design accuracy and responsiveness. Carson notes, “Adopting new technology allows us to refine our processes, respond more quickly to client needs, and maintain quality standards.”

The Future of Drone Technology at FOCUS Engineering

Carson is particularly excited about advancements in drone technology, such as LiDAR, which can penetrate dense vegetation and generate highly accurate 3D terrain models. “These capabilities make LiDAR-equipped drones especially effective in challenging environments, such as heavily vegetated or rugged terrains,” he explains. This cutting-edge technology, Carson believes, is a transformative tool that will continue to shape the future of the industry.

As drone technology continues to advance, its role in construction staking will only grow, driving innovation and sustainability in the built environment. FOCUS Engineering & Surveying remains committed to staying at the forefront of this exciting transformation.

To partner with our experts at FOCUS Engineering & Surveying, contact our team at info@focus-es.com or (801) 352-0075.