From Hours to Minutes: Automated Tree Checking and Mapping Along Roads

To reduce the number of traffic accidents caused by falling trees, it is essential to continuously monitor and map all trees along the roads. Since manual handling of this process would be inefficient, we developed an automated solution for our partner. Roboauto’s mapping set saves both time and money.

The challenge: Manual tree detection was inefficient

Measuring, geolocating, photographing and inspecting for potential defects were all steps our partner had to carry out manually for each individual tree. This approach was inefficient and time-consuming, prompting the partner to seek our help in automating the entire process. They requested a solution that would enable automated tree inspections across the entire Czech Republic.

Our solution: Using our own mapping set

Is it even possible to automate the analysis of each tree? Absolutely.

We built a custom mapping hardware set and in-house-developed software, enabling high-accuracy mapping of the surroundings or creating an exact digital replica of the environment.

A tree-mapping sensor set (composed of cameras and LiDAR) mounted on a vehicle captures all trees along the road. The recorded data is then processed, generating an output that includes a photo of each tree along with key parameters such as its location, height, and width. This process is known as mapping (sensing & perception).

To implement the solution, we deployed our team to client-designated areas, where they systematically recorded each tree. Afterward, we conducted initial post-processing and securely transferred the data to the partner via a cloud service.

The results: Cost savings and increased road safety

The partner now benefits from a far more efficient method for locating trees along roads, allowing them to analyze the data using photo footage and point clouds from the recordings. Additionally, they now have highly accurate 3D data of tree trunks and their surroundings, making it ideal for further post-processing.

By automating the inspection and mapping of roadside trees, we significantly accelerated and streamlined the process while cutting the costs for analyzing a single tree by 50%.

Thanks to the lower cost, the tree database can now be updated much more frequently. More up-to-date data ultimately leads to safer roads.

We will design a tailored solution for your business

Did you know that sensing and perception are becoming increasingly valuable across various industries, including automotive, agriculture, and healthcare? It also plays a key role in autonomous driving.

Sensing and perception could bring significant benefits to your business as well. Feel free to reach out to us anytime at info@roboauto.tech. We’ll be happy to discuss the possibilities or design a custom solution tailored to your needs.

Are you interested in more details about sensing and perception? Check out this page.