Capturing a single stockpile can bring some problems if not done correctly. All 3D models created in Skysset interpret their scale by using the drone's GPS data. This data has approximately 1 meters (3 ft) of uncertainty. During a regular capture, this value is not a problem because of two factors:

  • The uncertainty is averaged among hundreds of images
  • The flight area is usually large enough that adding or substracting the value is a small fraction of the total


For these reasons, make sure your flight covers an area at least 30 meters by 30 meters, or 90 ft by 90 ft.


Additionally, single test stockpiles tend to be smaller than the average stockpile. This is because they are formed with several truckloads rather that tens or hundreds of them. This presents a possibility for ground resolution uncertainty. This is when the flying height is not adequate for the scale of the object that is being measured. For this reason, a good rule of thumb is to make the height of the flight no higher that 10X the height of the stockpile.