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Product-related questions

Our platform – DatuBIM – is a cloud-native SaaS service. Some of our customers have their own drone platform and utilize DatuBIM independently after a short training session. For other customers that are new to drone usage, we usually connect them with our certified partners that help them to implement and kick-off their work with DatuBIM. We do, of course, offer full support for our customers and certified programs.

DatuBIM is mainly suitable for infrastructure and heavy civil projects such as roads, highways, railways, utilities, as well as residential and commercial infrastructure developments. At Datumate, we develop tools that automate and make the lives of the stakeholders involved in these projects much easier.

As DatuBIM is a cloud-based, SaaS service, it is available from any location in the world. For security and privacy reasons we have two instances of the cloud - US and Europe/ROW.

Generally speaking, our pricing model is based on the number of user licenses and images processed. There are no limitations on the number of projects and the number of drones used by the organization. Specific pricing proposals are provided by our sales reps.

Yes, DatuBIM is now capable of dealing with surface objects in design files.  These include LandXML, DWG, DXF, and DGN design formats. When a design file that includes a surface object is opened, only the surface object is shown.  

DatuBIM now supports Hebrew, Japanese, Chinese, German (or any other Latin-based letters with accents) in site names, user names, measurements, annotations, and designs.

DatuBIM is drone- and camera-agnostic and can support any type of drone with any megapixel type of camera. DatuBIM also supports RTK and PPK images.  

Our platform is a cloud-native SaaS service. Some of our customers have their own drone platform and utilize DatuBIM independently after a short training session. For other customers that are new to drone usage, we usually connect them with our certified partners that help them to implement and kick-off their work with DatuBIM. We do, of course, offer full support for our customers and certified programs.

We support 2D and 3D design files as well as surface files (DXF, DWG, DGN, and LandXML, IFC).

Yes of course. DatuBIM's customers are mainly general contractors and project owners. General contractors can use DatuBIM to validate and inspect the work of their sub-contractors, and also to share information about project progress and potential issues with the owners. We even have a few customers who give the owners viewing or editing access to the platform to increase project transparency and collaboration.

All DatuBIM analytics users have access to our out-of-the-box reports, which include the volume grid and heatmap report and cross-section volume report. Custom reports are created per request.

Yes. You can export dxf formats and they will be geo-referenced.

No. However, Datumate has partnered with a number of drone service providers. All of them were certified to fly according to Datumate’s best practices. We will be more than happy to connect you with a drone service provider in your location.

Yes. DatuBIM automatically filters machinery, vegetation, buildings and other vertical elements from the digital terrain model. The platform also offers selective and easy manual filtering.

Yes, by clicking on the “images” key and choosing any area in the model, the user can see all the images that are associated to a specific area.

Yes. End users can import designs to DatuBIM for visualization and analysis purposes. The types of designs are DXF, DWG, DGN, XML, IFC.

DatuBIM is drone-agnostic and can generate models from any type of drone (the drone needs to have some basic requirements such as a 20 megapixel camera and GPS).

Yes. it is possible to calculate excavation volumes in several ways:

  1. Delta volume analytics allow users to calculate cut/fill volumes against any of the following surfaces: interpolated (average surface based on the elevation of the points the user used for the polygon/area of the volumetric calculation), minimum elevation inside the polygon, custom elevation (the user types in an elevation), any other date of model/design.
  2. Generate the volume grid and heat map report, which compares between any two surfaces such as two models from different dates or a model and an imported design. This professional report provides more detailed information such as grid cells, cut/fill volumes for each and every cell and the accumulative volumes in the calculated area.

DatuBIM support all published coordinate systems. Users can also choose to use a local coordinate system if required.

General questions

Lidar and photogrammetry are both methods used for capturing three-dimensional (3D) data of the environment, but they differ in the way they acquire this data.

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology that uses lasers to emit light pulses and measure the time it takes for those pulses to reflect back from objects in the environment. By calculating the amount of time it takes for the light to travel and return, lidar can create a precise 3D map of the environment.

Photogrammetry, on the other hand, uses photographs to create 3D models. It works by taking multiple overlapping photos of an object or area from different angles, and then using specialized software to analyze the images and create a 3D model.

In summary, the main difference between lidar and photogrammetry is the technology used to capture the 3D data. Lidar uses lasers to measure distances and create a 3D map, while photogrammetry uses photographs to create a 3D model. Both technologies have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of which to use depends on the specific requirements of the project.

The term "datum" typically refers to a single piece of information, or a specific value that serves as a reference point or starting point for further analysis or measurement. In some contexts, the term may be used in the plural form "data", which refers to multiple pieces of information.

In the field of surveying and mapping, a datum is a specific point or set of points on the earth's surface used as a reference for determining the location of other points. This is often referred to as a "geodetic datum". In this context, the datum serves as the starting point for a coordinate system, allowing surveyors and cartographers to accurately map and measure distances and locations on the earth's surface.

Overall, the term "datum" can be used in a variety of fields and contexts, but it generally refers to a specific piece of information or a reference point that is used as a starting point for further analysis or measurement.

Construction site mapping is the process of creating a detailed and accurate map of a construction site. It involves using various techniques and tools to gather data about the site, such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, LiDAR, GPS, and surveying equipment.

The goal of construction site mapping is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date view of the site, including its topography, features, and any existing structures. This information can be used by architects, engineers, and contractors to plan and execute construction projects more efficiently and effectively.

Construction site mapping can also be used to monitor the progress of a construction project, identify potential issues or obstacles, and ensure that the project is being completed in accordance with the plans and specifications. Overall, construction site mapping is an important tool for improving the accuracy and efficiency of construction projects.

Drone photogrammetry is the process of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) to capture aerial photographs of an area and then analyzing those images to create accurate measurements, maps, and 3D models.

The UAVs are equipped with cameras and fly over the target area, taking overlapping photographs from different angles and altitudes. The photographs are then processed using specialized software to create a 3D model of the terrain, which can be used to create maps, measure distances, and analyze changes over time.

Drone photogrammetry has numerous applications, including in agriculture, land surveying, urban planning, construction, and environmental monitoring. It is a cost-effective and efficient way to gather data from large areas, and it can be used to generate highly detailed and accurate maps and models.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has numerous applications in the construction industry. Here are some examples:

  • Planning and design: AI can help architects and engineers create 3D models, simulate different construction scenarios, and optimize building designs based on performance metrics such as energy efficiency, cost, and sustainability.
  • Project management: AI can be used to monitor and analyze project schedules, budgets, and resources, and identify potential issues before they become problems. AI-powered project management software can also provide real-time insights into the progress of construction projects, allowing stakeholders to make data-driven decisions.
  • Safety and risk management: AI can help improve safety on construction sites by monitoring workers and equipment, detecting hazards, and alerting workers and supervisors to potential dangers. AI can also be used to predict and prevent accidents, such as falls and collisions.
  • Quality control and inspection: AI can be used to analyze images and videos of construction sites, identifying defects and deviations from plans, and providing real-time feedback to workers and supervisors. This can help reduce errors and improve the quality of construction.
  • Maintenance and asset management: AI can be used to monitor the condition of buildings, equipment, and infrastructure, predicting when maintenance is required and optimizing maintenance schedules. AI-powered asset management systems can also help construction companies make informed decisions about when to replace or upgrade assets.

Overall, AI has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing safety and quality.

Aerial mapping is the process of capturing and creating maps or surveys of large areas of land or terrain from an aerial perspective, typically using aircraft or drones equipped with cameras or other imaging sensors. The resulting maps can be used for a variety of purposes, such as urban planning, land management, or construction management. Aerial mapping can provide a more comprehensive and accurate view of the area being mapped compared to traditional ground-based mapping methods. The data captured during aerial mapping can be processed to generate detailed maps, 3D models, or topographic data. Aerial mapping has become increasingly accessible and cost-effective with the development of drone technology, making it a valuable tool for various industries and applications.

Aerial surveying is the process of collecting data and information about a large area of land or terrain from an aerial perspective, typically using aircraft or drones equipped with specialized sensors and cameras. Aerial surveying can be used for various purposes, such as land and property surveying, urban planning, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure planning and development.

During an aerial survey, the aircraft or drone flies over the area to be surveyed and captures high-resolution images, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data, or other types of data using specialized equipment. The data collected is then processed and analyzed to generate maps, 3D models, or other types of geospatial data.

Aerial surveying is often used for large-scale projects that require accurate and comprehensive data over a wide area. It is also a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional ground-based surveying methods, especially in remote or difficult-to-access locations. Aerial surveying has many applications in various industries, including construction, urban planning, agriculture, and mining.

“As-built" refers to the final and accurate documentation of a completed construction project or engineering design. It represents the final status of a project, including all changes, modifications, and updates that were made during construction or design.

As-built documentation typically includes detailed drawings, plans, specifications, and other records that capture the precise details of the finished project. This documentation is important because it provides an accurate and complete record of the project, which can be used for future reference or to make modifications or repairs to the structure.

As-built documentation may be required by building codes, local regulations, or the project owner. It can also be used by contractors and engineers to analyze the construction process and identify areas for improvement in future projects.

An as-built digital twin is a digital representation of a physical object or system that reflects its actual, current state. It is created by capturing data from various sources, such as sensors, cameras, and other digital devices, and using that data to build a virtual model that accurately reflects the object or system as it exists in the real world.

The term "as-built" refers to the fact that the digital twin is created based on the actual physical object or system, as opposed to a design or conceptual model. This means that the as-built digital twin includes details such as dimensions, materials, and other characteristics that may not have been accurately represented in earlier models.

As-built digital twins can be used in a variety of applications, such as monitoring and maintenance of infrastructure, optimizing performance of manufacturing equipment, and even in the design and construction of new buildings and structures. By providing a detailed and accurate digital representation of a physical object or system, as-built digital twins can help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety and reliability.

Automatic georeferencing (AGR) is the process of automatically determining the spatial coordinates of a digital image or dataset and placing it onto a specific geographic location on a map. This process involves comparing features or points in the image with known geographic locations or reference data, and then using mathematical algorithms to estimate the spatial location of the image.

Automatic georeferencing is often used in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to create accurate maps and to integrate different types of data from various sources. It is also used in fields such as remote sensing, surveying, and cartography, where precise spatial information is essential. The use of automatic georeferencing tools can save time and resources compared to manual georeferencing, especially when dealing with large datasets or multiple images.

Automated grade checking in construction refers to the use of technology to measure and verify the accuracy of grading work on a construction site. This technology typically involves the use of sensors and GPS technology to measure the elevation and slope of the land, and compare it to the design plans or specifications.

Automated grade checking can be used for a variety of construction applications, such as site preparation, earthworks, and road building. By using automated grade checking, construction professionals can ensure that the land is graded to the correct slope and elevation, which is essential for proper drainage, stability, and safety.

Learn more in this blog post.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital process that involves creating and managing a 3D model of a building or infrastructure project. BIM allows architects, engineers, and construction professionals to collaborate on a project by sharing information about the design, materials, and construction processes.

BIM models can include information about the building's geometry, spatial relationships, building systems, and other features such as lighting and acoustics. The models can also be used to simulate and analyze the performance of the building under different conditions such as temperature, wind, and occupancy.

BIM is designed to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the construction process by reducing errors, minimizing waste, and improving collaboration between different stakeholders. It also allows for better communication and visualization of the design to clients, contractors, and other stakeholders.

BIM has become increasingly popular in the construction industry in recent years, and many countries have implemented BIM standards and regulations for public infrastructure projects.

Construction analytics is the application of data analytics and business intelligence techniques to the construction industry. It involves the use of advanced tools and technologies to collect, process, and analyze large volumes of data generated during the construction process.

Construction analytics can help stakeholders in the construction industry to gain insights into various aspects of the construction process, including project planning, design, cost management, schedule optimization, risk management, quality control, and safety. By analyzing this data, construction professionals can identify patterns and trends that can be used to make informed decisions and improve the overall efficiency and productivity of construction projects.

Some of the key applications of construction analytics include:

  • Predictive modeling and forecasting
  • Resource allocation and optimization
  • Risk management and mitigation
  • Quality control and defect detection
  • Real-time monitoring and control
  • Performance analysis and benchmarking

Overall, construction analytics can help to improve the accuracy, speed, and quality of construction projects, leading to better outcomes for stakeholders and ultimately improving the built environment.

Construction project management software is a software application designed to help construction project managers and teams plan, execute, and manage construction projects more efficiently. It provides a digital platform to streamline all aspects of construction project management, from initial project planning to project completion.

Construction project management software typically includes features such as scheduling tools, resource allocation tools, budgeting tools, document management, communication tools, and reporting tools. These features help project managers and team members collaborate effectively, manage timelines, track project progress, monitor budgets, and communicate with stakeholders.

The software can be used by various stakeholders in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, owners, and other team members involved in the construction process. By using construction project management software, teams can reduce errors, avoid delays, and stay on top of project schedules and budgets, resulting in more efficient and successful projects.

Construction project management software is a software application designed to help construction project managers and teams plan, execute, and manage construction projects more efficiently. It provides a digital platform to streamline all aspects of construction project management, from initial project planning to project completion.

Construction project management software typically includes features such as scheduling tools, resource allocation tools, budgeting tools, document management, communication tools, and reporting tools. These features help project managers and team members collaborate effectively, manage timelines, track project progress, monitor budgets, and communicate with stakeholders.

The software can be used by various stakeholders in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, owners, and other team members involved in the construction process. By using construction project management software, teams can reduce errors, avoid delays, and stay on top of project schedules and budgets, resulting in more efficient and successful projects.

Digital twins can be used in infrastructure construction to simulate and optimize the design, construction, and operation of infrastructure projects. By creating a digital twin of the physical asset, engineers and construction professionals can use data analytics and other techniques to improve the project's efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Here are some ways digital twins are used in infrastructure construction:

  • Design optimization: Digital twins can be used to simulate and optimize the design of infrastructure projects, such as buildings, bridges, and highways. By creating a virtual model of the project, engineers can test different design scenarios and assess their impact on performance, cost, and other factors.
  • Construction planning and scheduling: Digital twins can be used to simulate the construction process and optimize the construction schedule. By simulating the construction process, engineers can identify potential conflicts and risks, and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Quality control and monitoring: Digital twins can be used to monitor the construction process and ensure that the project is built according to specifications. By monitoring the physical asset in real-time, engineers can detect potential problems and address them before they become larger issues.
  • Predictive maintenance: Digital twins can be used to predict maintenance needs and optimize maintenance schedules. By monitoring the physical asset in real-time, engineers can detect potential problems and schedule maintenance before the asset fails.
  • Asset management: Digital twins can be used to manage infrastructure assets throughout their lifecycle, from design and construction to operation and maintenance. By creating a digital twin of the asset, engineers can track its performance, optimize its operation, and plan for its eventual replacement or decommissioning.

Overall, digital twins are a powerful tool for infrastructure construction professionals, helping them optimize the design, construction, and operation of infrastructure projects, leading to more efficient, sustainable, and safer infrastructure.

Digital construction platforms are used to streamline and optimize construction processes using digital technology. They provide a range of tools and features that enable architects, engineers, contractors, and other professionals to collaborate, manage, and track construction projects more effectively.

Some of the specific uses of digital construction platforms include:

  • Design and Planning: These platforms allow architects and engineers to design and plan construction projects using 3D modeling software, which can help identify potential issues and optimize the layout of the building.
  • Project Management: Digital construction platforms can be used to manage various aspects of the project, including scheduling, resource allocation, cost tracking, and communication among team members.
  • Collaboration: These platforms provide tools for collaboration among various stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and clients. This can help ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals and that communication is streamlined.
  • Construction Documentation: Digital construction platforms can be used to create and manage all types of construction documentation, including drawings, specifications, contracts, and change orders.
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM is a digital representation of a building that provides information about its physical and functional characteristics. Digital construction platforms can be used to create and manage BIM models, which can be used throughout the construction process.

Overall, digital construction platforms are used to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and increase collaboration in the construction industry.

Earthwork calculations are the process of determining the quantities of materials such as soil, rock, or other earth materials that need to be excavated or added to a construction site to achieve the desired grade or contour of the land. Earthwork calculations are an essential part of any construction project that involves grading, excavating, or filling land.

The process typically involves surveying the site and creating a topographic map, which shows the existing contour lines and elevations of the land. Then, the designer can use this information to create a design plan for the site that specifies the desired grade, slope, and elevation changes. From this plan, the engineer or contractor can calculate the volume of earthwork needed to achieve the desired grade or contour, as well as the quantity of materials to be excavated or added to the site.

Earthwork calculations are crucial for determining the cost and feasibility of a construction project, and they are used in a wide range of applications, including road construction, building construction, land development, and mining.

Geo point surveying, also known as geodetic surveying or geodetic measurement, is a type of surveying that involves the precise measurement and mapping of the Earth's surface and features. It is used to establish accurate positions and elevations of various points on the Earth's surface, such as buildings, roads, bridges, and natural features like mountains and rivers.

Geo point surveying involves the use of advanced equipment and techniques such as GPS (Global Positioning System), satellite imagery, and geodetic datums (a reference system for measuring positions on the Earth's surface). These methods enable surveyors to measure distances, angles, and elevations with high precision, and to create accurate three-dimensional models of the Earth's surface.

Geo point surveying is used in a variety of applications, including construction, engineering, mapping, and natural resource management. It is also used in geology, oceanography, and other fields of science to study the Earth's surface and its features.

Geotagged aerial images are aerial photographs or images that are captured by cameras mounted on aircraft or drones and are tagged with geographical information. This information is usually in the form of latitude, longitude, and altitude, which is embedded into the image's metadata.

Geotagging enables the precise positioning of the aerial image on a map or geographic information system (GIS) and allows for accurate analysis and measurement of features on the ground. Geotagged aerial images are used in various fields such as agriculture, urban planning, land surveying, environmental monitoring, and disaster management, among others.

With the help of geotagged aerial images, it is possible to create detailed maps, measure distances and areas, monitor changes in land use, and identify potential hazards or risks in a particular area.

Digital construction platforms can be used to automate and improve the accuracy of grade checking as follows:

  • Automated grading analysis: The platform can automatically analyze the site's grading plan and compare it to the as-built site conditions using BIM technology. This can help identify any discrepancies between the design plans and the actual site conditions, allowing for faster and more accurate adjustments to be made.
  • Integration with surveying equipment: The platform can be integrated with surveying equipment, such as GPS or robotic total stations, to automatically collect and analyze data on the site's elevation and slope. This can help ensure that the construction is being built to the required specifications, without the need for manual inspection and measurement.
  • Real-time monitoring: The platform can continuously monitor the site's grading using sensors or drones, providing real-time data on the site's elevation and slope. This can help detect any changes or deviations from the design plans, allowing for immediate corrective action to be taken.
  • Machine learning algorithms: The platform can use machine learning algorithms to analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns or anomalies in the grading process. This can help identify potential issues before they become major problems, improving the overall efficiency and safety of the construction process.

Overall, digital construction platforms offer a range of tools and technologies that can automate the process of grade checking, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the construction process.

Yes, the process of calculating grid volume in heavy civil and infrastructure construction can be automated using modern technology such as 3D modeling and machine learning algorithms.

For example, software tools can automatically create a digital terrain model (DTM) of the project site based on survey data. The DTM can then be used to generate a grid system and calculate the volume of material that has been moved or added within each cell.

In addition, machine learning algorithms can be trained to recognize different types of materials and automatically classify them based on their properties such as density and texture. This can help improve the accuracy of volume calculations and reduce the need for manual intervention.

Overall, automation of grid volume calculations can help save time and reduce errors, allowing engineers and project managers to make better-informed decisions and optimize construction processes.

A ground control point (GCP) is a known geographic location on the Earth's surface that is used as a reference point in remote sensing or surveying applications. The purpose of using GCPs is to improve the accuracy of georeferencing, which involves the process of aligning an image or dataset with real-world coordinates.

GCPs are typically identified by their longitude, latitude, and elevation, and can be established using a variety of methods, such as GPS surveying, photogrammetry, or by manually measuring the coordinates using a GPS device or a map.

In remote sensing applications, GCPs are used to correct distortions that may be present in satellite or aerial images due to factors such as atmospheric conditions, sensor noise, or terrain variations. By accurately referencing an image to real-world coordinates using GCPs, it becomes possible to make measurements and perform analyses on the image with a high degree of accuracy.

In construction, ground control points (GCPs) are used to establish accurate references for surveying, mapping, and 3D modeling of construction sites. GCPs are typically established using GPS surveying techniques and are used to align 3D models with real-world coordinates and elevations.

In construction, ground control points (GCPs) are used to establish accurate references for surveying, mapping, and 3D modeling of construction sites. GCPs are typically established using GPS surveying techniques and are used to align 3D models with real-world coordinates and elevations.

Here are some ways GCPs are used in construction:

  • Surveying: GCPs are used to establish accurate reference points for surveying activities such as grading, excavation, and building layout.
  • Mapping: GCPs are used to align aerial or satellite imagery with real-world coordinates, allowing for the creation of accurate maps of construction sites.
  • 3D modeling: GCPs are used to align 3D models with real-world coordinates and elevations, allowing for accurate simulations and visualizations of construction projects.
  • Monitoring: GCPs can be used as reference points for monitoring activities such as deformation analysis, settlement analysis, and structural health monitoring.

By using GCPs in construction, contractors and project managers can ensure that construction activities are carried out with a high degree of accuracy and precision, reducing the risk of errors and improving the overall quality of the project.

Infrastructure construction intelligence refers to the use of data and analytics to optimize the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects. It involves the integration of various technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data, to improve decision-making, reduce costs, and enhance project outcomes.

Infrastructure construction intelligence can help identify potential risks and opportunities early in the project lifecycle, allowing for more informed decisions and better project management. It can also facilitate collaboration and communication among different stakeholders involved in the project, such as designers, engineers, contractors, and project owners.

Examples of infrastructure construction intelligence tools and techniques include digital twins, which allow for virtual modeling and testing of infrastructure systems, and predictive analytics, which can forecast potential issues and suggest solutions before they occur. Overall, infrastructure construction intelligence aims to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve the quality of infrastructure projects.

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create 3D representations of objects and surfaces. In construction, lidar is used for a variety of purposes, such as:

  • Site surveying: Lidar can be used to create accurate 3D models of construction sites, which can be used for surveying, planning, and design purposes.
  • Quality control: Lidar can be used to ensure that construction work is completed to a high standard by comparing the as-built structures to the design plans.
  • Monitoring progress: Lidar can be used to track the progress of construction projects over time, providing visualizations of the work as it develops.
  • Safety: Lidar can be used to detect potential safety hazards on construction sites, such as unstable terrain or areas with high levels of dust or debris.
  • Equipment management: Lidar can be used to manage and optimize the use of construction equipment, by tracking the location and movement of machinery on the site.

Overall, lidar technology can help construction companies to improve their efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure that their projects are completed to a high standard.

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