Aerotas can process data collected with the Phantom 4 RTK
Aerotas has been successfully processing data collected with the Phantom 4 RTK since October of 2018. This article explains how to collect data using the PPK workflow. For the RTK workflow, utilizing the D-RTK2 base station, click here.
Overall, the Phantom 4 RTK is a great piece of technology that will improve both accuracy and efficiency for surveyors. But, there are no two ways about it, the processing workflow for the Phantom 4 RTK is considerably more complicated than a standard drone surveying workflow.
The Aerotas data team published a very detailed resource for processing the Phantom 4 RTK data on your own (Phantom 4 RTK/PPK Processing Workflow). But, Aerotas is here to help if you are looking for human-in-the-loop data processing on a project-by-project basis.
When working with Aerotas, this is the recommended workflow for PPK processing.
Equipment Needed
DJI Phantom 4 RTK Aircraft
Dual-band GNSS base station (e.g. Trimble R10, Leica GS16, or similar)
Note: this workflow does NOT require the use of the DJI D-RTK2 base station.
Field Collection Procedures
Set up your base station
Collect L1/L2 observations at a minimum of 1Hz (5Hz or 0.2-second observations are preferred, but not necessary)
If possible, set up your base station over a known point
Ensure your base station is set up to collect and store raw RINEX data (.19o and .19n files)
Set a minimum of 3 ground control points
These are used as checkpoints to validate the accuracy of the RTK data
For large projects, we recommend 3 ground control points per flight
Fly your site to collect data using Aerotas’ best practices
Aerotas field checklists are available at aerotas.com
Data Upload Procedures
Go to aerotas.com/quote to request a quote, once you have accepted the quote you will be prompted to upload your data. Be sure to include the following files:
Photos captured by the drone (.JPG)
GNSS files stored on the drone (EVENTLOG.bin, PPKRAW.bin, Rinex.obs and Timestamp.MRK)
Base Station RINEX and Navigation data files (.19o, .19n)
Ground Control (.TXT or .CSV) in PNEZD GPS format
File Deliverables
Linework deliverables include:
DWG Package (saved in Civil 3D 2013)
Drafted linework also includes all Photogrammetry deliverables.
Photogrammetry deliverables include:
Full Resolution Orthophoto
CAD-Friendly Orthophoto
Full Resolution Digital Surface Model (DSM)
World File (TFW)
Point Cloud (LAS)
To request professionally drafted linework on your project, request a quote at aerotas.com/quote.
Learn more about the RTK workflow and effectively using the D-RTK 2 GNSS Base Station.