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THE FUTURE OF ARBORICULTURE IS 3D

Transform Tree Inspections

Photogrammetry and 3D models provide valuable data that can be analysed to track changes in fungal populations, assess disease progression, and inform management decisions. 

Tulip tree with included union

Click the play button or the Sketchfab icon to view the interactive 3-D model.

This Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) was inspected as part of a VALID Tree Risk-Benefit Survey in Staffordshire with the 3D model produced and provided as supporting evidence to the local authority for an Application for Tree Works: Works to Trees Subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). 

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This high-definition, annotated 3D model, accompanied by a written technical statement, helped to visually represent the survey findings and aid the local Tree Officers decision-making process.

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NUMBER OF PHOTOS: 171

DEVICE USED: Google Pixel 6

TIME TO CAPTURE: 6 mins

Tulip tree with included union

Sycamore with a fractured Stem

Click the play button or the Sketchfab icon to view the interactive 3-D model.

This roadside sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) was identified during a walkover survey following severe weather events in January 2024. Forming part of a woodland edge within a Conservation Area, the tree presented a more immediate risk and was removed under an exemption to a Section 211 notice.

 

Although the tree provided a clear risk which was hard not to justify, the 3D model was created for evidence recording and serves as a fantastic example of a risk feature to demonstrate in the classroom.

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NUMBER OF PHOTOS: 118

DEVICE USED: Google Pixel 6

TIME TO CAPTURE: 4 mins

Sycamore with fractured stem

Kretzschmaria deusta on Sycamore

Click the play button or the Sketchfab icon to view the interactive 3-D model.

Recorded during the Lantra Professional Tree Inspection (PTI) course as part of a practical demonstration, this 3D model of a sycamore with Kretzschmaria deusta (Brittle cinder) can now form part of a digital archive, monitoring the tree and the distribution of the fruitbodies (crusts), over time. 

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DID YOU KNOW

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Brittle Cinder fungus is often under-recorded because it can so easily go unnoticed once it darkens. Old fruitbodies look more like charred wood or, where a tree is positioned on a pavement, are often mistaken for tarmacadam.

Kretzschmaria deusta on sycamore

Benefits of Photogrammetry

  • Photogrammetry provides highly accurate and detailed representations of trees, including their structure, dimensions, and potential issues.

  • Capturing 3D models allows for a thorough examination of tree condition, helping with identification of risk features, disease, or structural concerns, post survey.

  • Photogrammetry and 3D Gaussian can help to streamline the inspection process by enabling quick and comprehensive data collection, reducing the time required for on-site assessments. This is particularly useful where time constraints or access restrictions restrict surveys.

  • Clients receive visual representations such as 3D models and orthoimages, enhancing their understanding of tree conditions and aiding in decision-making.

  • The technology facilitates ongoing monitoring, allowing clients to track changes in tree health over time without the need for frequent on-site visits.

Disadvantages of Photogrammetry

  • Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, winds, clouds, haze, etc. can affect the quality of photogrammetric data collection.

  • Photogrammetry may face challenges in capturing detailed information of species type and twig density, especially in areas with dense vegetation, as it relies on clear visibility from various angles.

  • High-quality cameras and software for photogrammetry can be expensive, impacting initial investment costs.

  • Effective use of photogrammetry requires specialised skills and training and you need to understand both the technology and the principles of accurate data collection.

  • While highly accurate, photogrammetry may have limitations in achieving centimeter-level precision compared to other survey methods, such as laser scanning.

  • When using drones, adherence to aviation regulations and obtaining appropriate permissions for aerial surveys is crucial, adding complexity and potential delays.

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Want to make your own 3D models?

Adopting photogrammetry is very straightforward once you know the principles and, importantly, you and your clients see the benefits.

Photogrammetry Innovator Workshop

As part of our mission to see arboriculture adopt technology more widely, we run Photogrammetry Workshops specific to arboriculture and ecology. We recognise that companies, arborists, and ecologists will need training and support to integrate photogrammetry into what they do and the deliverable they provide.

 

Our Photogrammetry Innovator session is a one-day course, giving you an insight into the skills and know-how to ensure that you are not only more competent but also confident, in integrating photogrammetry into your workflow.

 

We focus on using the most freely available and easily adoptable techniques and software available.​

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Our sessions are offered as in-house training either on-site, or at your location as long as we have access to the following:

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  • Suitable, quiet meeting or training room.

  • Access within easy walking distance to a range of trees for practical exercises.

  • 1 Day, in-person Session.

  • Minimum 6 attendees for the Session to run.

The session will cover:​

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  • Training needs analysis.

  • Health and Safety.

  • Copyright, Laws and Legislation (including specific to using drones).

  • Differentiating 1st person/3rd person filming.

  • Overview of smartphone apps and software available, both paid and free.

  • Scanning scenes using ground and aerial (drone) photogrammetry and Gaussian Splat methods.

  • Uploading and processing content in software.

  • 3D model Integration with client reports and technical plans.

£170 per person.

We're putting an end to gatekeeping!

We're on a mission to banish gatekeeping! 

 

We are on a mission to help the entire industry improve its digital capabilities, and we want you to be part of it!

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That’s why we give away so much free knowledge on our social media accounts, from tips, tricks and insights into photogrammetry, to insight on using ChatGPT to streamline your business, to drones videography and photography.

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