Geomatics

DMP is one of the largest engineering firms headquartered in the North Carolina Triad area. DMP employs multiple skilled Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors and provides services in Civil/Site and Municipal Engineering, Surveying, Subsurface Utility Engineering and Construction Management/Inspection.
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Surveying continues its technological evolution, from the early techniques employed by ancient Egyptian rope pullers to the cutting-edge 3D laser scanning using aerial drones seen today. As our profession advances, the terminology also evolves; what was once simply known as land surveying is now often referred to as “Geomatics.” This branch of science focuses on the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data related to the earth’s surface.

DMP’s Geomatics Department stands as one of the cornerstones of our business and is among the largest surveying operations in the Triad. Our team of professional surveyors, licensed in multiple states, is supported by well-trained technicians utilizing the latest technology, including global positioning receivers (GPS), robotic total stations, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) with LiDAR collection capability and innovative software. This state-of-the-art technology ensures that we deliver timely and accurate results for our clients.

DMP’s Geomatics Services

  • Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE)

  • LiDAR Acquistion/Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)

  • 3D Mapping

  • Hydrography

  • Construction Staking

  • Construction Surveys

  • GPS & Control Surveys

  • Boundary Surveys

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE)

DMP’s SUE Department utilizes Electromagnetic (EM) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology to assist clients with utility investigations.

For every $1 spent on SUE, nearly $5 in construction costs are saved.*

Any public works project or construction project where subsurface utilities may be encountered can benefit from Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE). Developers, owners, designers, engineers, and contractors benefit from Identifying the location of subsurface utilities prior to beginning major excavations and can lead to significant cost savings by avoiding damage to existing utilities. SUE ensures that disturbances to existing utility customers are avoided or kept to a minimum. The table below lists the general categories of SUE activities that DMP has the equipment and expertise to perform.

Level A

(Exposures)
Exposing and recording the size and configuration of a subsurface utility, and its precise vertical and horizontal location. DMP uses Vacuum Excavation for non-destructive soft digs and provides survey grade coordinates.

Level B

(Delineating)
Using surface geophysical equipment or methods to interpret a subsurface utility and marking its horizontal position on the ground surface. DMP uses Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locators.

Data Management

Surveying, designating and locating information to project control and transferring it to the client's CAD sytem, GIS files, or project plans.

Conflict Analysis

Using a conflict matrix to evaluate and compare depicted designating information with proposed plans (highway, bridge, drainage, etc.) in order to inform all stakeholders of potential conflicts, resolutions and costs to cure.

Remote Sensing/Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)

DMP’s Remote Sensing program has the dedicated staff, technology, and versatility to handle heavy workloads and large-scale projects that would not be practical for the traditional survey crew.

DMP offers Laser scanning using the Trimble SX10 platform on projects with criteria such as: minimal interruption of activities or traffic; inaccessible or unsafe areas; need for complex details; or the desire for complete 3D modeling for design in Revit or BIM software. 3D Scanning is the industry standard for detailed measurements in complex environments allowing for safe acquisition of reliable data.

DMP’s UAS program began in 2020 and includes a Riegl aerial platform. Riegl LiDAR (light detection and ranging) allows us to efficiently gather accurate and reliable data which increases productivity on all projects, no matter the size, vegetation, or terrain. A 24-megapixel camera provides high quality aerial photography which, if needed, allows our clients to get to-date photos of sites showing existing conditions or visual updates on project progress.

3D Mapping

Utilizing the data generated by remote sensing, DMP can create a virtual collection of data points defined by a given coordinate system, otherwise known as a point cloud. Point clouds represent a transformative approach in capturing, analyzing, and representing site data and allows DMP to create highly accurate and comprehensive digital elevation models, contour maps, and detailed 3D models of the surveyed area. 3D mapping with point clouds in land surveying also facilitates improved analysis and visualization capabilities. DMP can provide clients with immersive, interactive models that allow for better planning, design, and decision-making processes. The ability to visualize the terrain in 3D aids in identifying potential issues, conducting volumetric calculations, and performing simulations for construction or land development projects. Additionally, this technology reduces the need for extensive fieldwork, minimizing human error and safety risks. Overall, the adoption of 3D mapping with point clouds revolutionizes the surveying industry by providing superior accuracy, efficiency, and versatility in land assessment and management

The Importance of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) in Civil Projects

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