What is Mobile Mapping?

Mobile mapping is the process of collecting geospatial data from a moving platform. It combines LiDAR scanning, GNSS positioning systems, and high-resolution cameras to capture highly accurate spatial data while the platform moves through an environment - whether airborne or vehicle-mounted.

Mobile mapping surveys allow large areas to be covered quickly while maintaining the geometric accuracy required for professional engineering and infrastructure workflows. A single mobile mapping survey pass can capture data equivalent to weeks of traditional surveying, making it the preferred method for highway corridor surveys, rail infrastructure surveys, and large-scale urban data capture.

Deliverables from a mobile mapping survey typically include classified LiDAR point clouds, georeferenced panoramic imagery, 2D topographic drawings, and 3D corridor models - all formatted for compatibility with Civil 3D, MicroStation, and major GIS platforms.
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Why Choose tri-site for mobile mapping surveys?

  • SPECIALIST MOBILE MAPPING TECHNOLOGY

    We operate the CHC NAV AlphaUni 20 - an advanced vehicle-mounted platform that integrates LiDAR scanning, GNSS, IMU, and high-resolution cameras to capture accurate
    large-scale spatial data in a single pass.

  • INDUSTRY EXPERTISE

    Our survey teams have hands-on experience supporting surveyors, engineers, and contractors
    across highway, rail, utilities, and environmental infrastructure projects. We understand framework delivery requirements and the reporting standards your design team expects.

  • RELIABLE SURVEY DELIVERABLES

    Every survey produces spatial datasets formatted for engineering, GIS, and digital modelling workflows - classified LAS point clouds, .dwg/.dxf topographic drawings, and georeferenced imagery, all tied to OS National Grid.

  • PROFESSIONAL PROJECT SUPPORT

    Our support runs from initial scoping - where we’ll advise on methodology, coverage strategy, and output format -through to final deliverable sign-off. Our team will liaise directly with your design team if any queries arise after delivery.

CHCNAV AlphaUni 20 - Dedicated Vehicle-Mounted Mobile Mapping Platform

We operate the CHC NAV AlphaUni 20 system in-house — not hired from third parties. This means consistent equipment quality, direct control over calibration, and no subcontracting risk on your project data.

The AlphaUni 20 is designed specifically for large-scale mobile mapping data collection from vehicles operating at traffic speed. It provides the performance required for larger-scale infrastructure surveys, operating at speeds up to 80km/h on live carriageways without requiring lane closures or traffic management in most cases.

Why We Use It for Large-Scale Surveys

  • Operates on live carriageways at traffic speed
  • Covers 50km+ of corridor per day in a single survey pass
  • Integrated LiDAR, GNSS, IMU, and camera
  • No weather windows or CAA approval delays
Discover the CHCNAV AU20 ➝

  • 80km/h

    Operating Speed

  • Easy Returns

    30-Day Free Returns

  • Secure Payment

    100% Secure Checkout

  • Quality Guarantee

    2-Year Warranty Included

Applications by Sector

Mobile Mapping Survey Applications

Mobile Mapping for Highways and Road Corridor Surveys

Mobile mapping is the most efficient method for capturing large-scale highway data. We cover motorways, A-roads, and urban networks — producing the accurate baseline data your design and asset management teams need without extended lane closures or traffic management costs.

Typical Use Cases

  • Highway design and widening feasibility
  • Road condition and surface defect assessment
  • Street furniture and asset inventory
  • Existing utilities and drainage mapping
  • Construction setting-out and as-built verification

Mobile Mapping for Rail Corridor Surveys

Survey during possession windows or on-track with Network Rail-compliant methodology. Our mobile mapping platforms capture gauge clearance data, overhead line geometry, and trackside asset inventories at speed.

Typical Use Cases

  • Gauging and clearance surveys
  • Overhead line equipment (OLE) surveys
  • Trackside asset inventory
  • Earthwork and embankment condition surveys
  • Construction baseline for renewals programmes

Mobile Mapping for Utilities and Drainage Route Surveys

Corridor mapping for new pipeline routes, utility diversions, and drainage assessments. Mobile mapping delivers accurate invert levels, cover positions, and above-ground infrastructure records in a single survey pass.

Typical Use Cases

  • Pipeline and cable route survey
  • Drainage and sewer invert mapping
  • Above-ground utility asset inventory
  • Diversion route feasibility
  • New connection route assessment

Mobile Mapping for Environmental and River Corridor Surveys

LiDAR mapping for flood risk, environmental assessment, and ecological management. We capture terrain, vegetation, and water feature data across wide corridor extents, supporting both design and planning applications.

Typical Use Cases

  • Flood risk terrain and floodplain mapping
  • Vegetation height and canopy capture
  • River corridor and bank condition survey
  • SSSI boundary and habitat mapping
  • Planning and EIA baseline survey

Deliverable Outputs:

Classified LiDAR Point Cloud

LAS format, ground-classified, compatible with Civil 3D and MicroStation

3D Corridor Model

Existing ground surface, carriageway edge, kerb, and verge lines

2D Topographical Survey Drawing

.dwg / .dxf, formatted to your specification or NBS standard

Georeferenced Panoramic Imagery

360° imagery with GPS tags, suitable for remote desktop review

DTM Rasters

Digital terrain and surface models for design and flood modelling

Survey Partner Services

Tri-Site regularly supports geospatial companies who require specialist hydrographic survey capability.

We can operate as an extension of your survey team, delivering bathymetric surveys on your behalf while maintaining your client relationships.

Where required, we work in line with your organisation’s:

  • branding and identification
  • health and safety procedures
  • reporting standards and project specifications
  • insurance and compliance requirements

Our team can operate under your company name and wear your site badges, allowing you to expand your survey capability without investing in additional equipment or specialist hydrographic systems.
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Need a Mobile Mapping Survey?

Speak to our team to discuss how mobile mapping surveys can support your infrastructure, engineering or asset management project.
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