DeltaQuad and YellowScan expand colourized UAV-Lidar mapping range

Dutch drone manufacturer DeltaQuad has integrated a colourized Lidar solution into its latest Evo UAV in partnership with YellowScan, a manufacturer of Lidar mapping solutions. The DeltaQuad Evo is the world's first fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV or 'drone') to offer a combined YellowScan Lidar and RGB system.

The integration of the YellowScan system with the DeltaQuad Evo represents a significant advancement in the field of mapping, providing georeferenced colourized Lidar with extensive terrain coverage. While more powerful quadcopters can currently carry combined Lidar and RGB systems for approximately 30 minutes, covering around 100 hectares, some fixed-wing VTOLs can carry Lidar systems that cover up to 400 hectares but lack integrated RGB sensors. This means they must perform the same flight patterns twice to capture RGB data. The DeltaQuad Evo sets a new standard with a flight time of 2.5 hours, covering up to 500 hectares using the YellowScan Lidar and RGB system in a single flight.

Multipurpose sensor ecosystem

The YellowScan system offers highly detailed and accurate terrain information, with up to 200 data points per square metre. The processing of collected data is facilitated by the YellowScan CloudStation software, which boasts fast and user-friendly data processing capabilities, enhancing the efficiency of large mapping projects. Furthermore, the integration of an RGB sensor allows for the colourization of georeferenced Lidar points, improving usability and enhancing the identification of intricate details.

The modular design of the DeltaQuad Evo ensures its users can create a multipurpose sensor ecosystem. The universal payload bay can accommodate payloads weighing up to 3kg, offering the opportunity to combine two different sensors during a single flight (such as RGB, Multispectral, Thermal, ISR, or any customized sensor) or replace one of these sensors with an auxiliary battery to achieve a flight time of up to 4.5 hours. The open payload bay design allows for the seamless integration of future sensor developments into the DeltaQuad Evo, and the 'Click & Go' mechanism with automated payload recognition simplifies payload swaps without the need for tools.

The partnership between DeltaQuad and YellowScan is a source of pride for both companies. Tristan Allouis, co-founder and CEO of YellowScan, expresses his enthusiasm, stating: “Working with DeltaQuad is a thrilling experience as we collaborate to create inventive solutions for demanding applications. Our shared dedication ensures the delivery of highly efficient and reliable solutions for our valued customers.” For Douwe Zeeman, CEO of DeltaQuad, this is another example of customer-centric co-creation. He is proud to add another valuable feature to the DeltaQuad Evo, enabling more efficient data gathering in the mapping industry.