Achieving survey-grade accuracy starts on the ground. To get the highest accuracy from your survey, the way you collect your AeroPoints is just as important as how you place them. At Propeller, we swear by the "First Down, Last Up" rule. This guide explains why this simple workflow is critical for ensuring your data timestamps overlap perfectly, leading to better processing results and a seamless survey experience.
When we correct the AeroPoint positions for your survey, they must have overlapping time stamps. The method you use to lay out and collect your AeroPoints can directly affect our ability to process the data they collect.
The Golden Rule: First Down, Last Up
The most effective workflow is a simple loop:
Place your AeroPoints in order (Point 1 → Point 2 → Point 3...).
Fly your survey.
Collect your AeroPoints in reverse order (Point 3 → Point 2 → Point 1).
By collecting your points in the reverse order of how you placed them, you ensure that your data "anchors" are solid.
If you used best practices to capture AeroPoint data, your timeline should look similar to the image below. Point 1 was collecting data for the entire survey (it was placed first and picked up last).
If you collect them randomly, the timeline becomes fragmented. This makes it difficult to process the data accurately because there is no single point covering the whole duration.
Pro Tips for Success
Plan your route: If you are surveying a large site, try to end your drive/walk near the location of your last AeroPoint drop. This makes it easy to start the flight from there, pick up that last point first, and work your way back to the start.
Mixed Fleets: Even if you are using a mix of AeroPoint 1s and AeroPoint 2s, the "First Down, Last Up" rule still applies.
Clean as you go: While collecting, take a second to wipe down the solar panels. This keeps them ready for the next job (and saves you time later).
Upload options: You can upload your data via the mobile app on-site, or wait until you are back in the office on a strong WiFi network.
I still can't do it!
We wrote these articles to equip you with everything you need to get the job done on your own, but we understand that sometimes this isn't sufficient.
If you're stuck, the Propeller hardware support team may be able to help. You can contact them by emailing hardwaresupport@propelleraero.com.au.
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