3D Reconstruction with Drones: LiDAR vs. Aerial Photogrammetry

At Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Libraries, we have initiated a Drone Learning Program to assist our research community with the incorporation of drone technology in their research. This program has led to collaborations with researchers across a variety of disciplines that require capturing and modeling the real world in 3 dimensions (3D). To do so, several 3D reconstruction technologies and processes have been applied, varying in cost and ease of use. This presentation will introduce the use of LiDAR technology and the process of aerial photogrammetry as strategies for data collection and 3D reconstruction. Datasets created using both approaches will be showcased to illustrate the pros and cons of incorporating LiDAR technology and aerial photogrammetry with drones to recreate physical objects.