Accelerating Small Cell Node Deployment with UAV and Laser Surveying
As mobile data demand surges in dense urban environments, wireless carriers increasingly deploy small cell nodes—compact, low-profile micro antennas—within distributed antenna system (DAS) architectures. Rather than forcing every smartphone to connect to distant macro towers, DAS networks distribute traffic across multiple nodes, improving signal strength, data throughput and overall service reliability.
When a major wireless provider sought to enhance coverage in metro Denver, the plan involved installing ten small cell nodes within public rights-of-way. Before any infrastructure could be installed, however, feasibility assessments were required to confirm that proposed locations would not conflict with existing utilities or underground infrastructure.
That responsibility fell to Downtown Design Services Inc. (DDSI), a firm specializing in surveying, drafting and design services across energy, fiber optic, oil and gas and municipal sectors. Accurate field measurements were critical to ensuring the architectural and engineering teams could proceed with confidence.
Transitioning from Traditional Surveying to Advanced Tools
Initially, DDSI planned to conduct conventional field surveying. However, the complexity and congestion of urban corridors quickly revealed that traditional methods would not meet time or budget constraints. Dense utilities, street furniture, vegetation and limited access created challenges that demanded a more efficient approach.
Mike George, DDSI project manager and FAA-certified drone pilot, led field data acquisition. Prior to launching a UAV, George performed comprehensive preflight planning to determine the tallest surrounding obstacles—trees, light poles, utility structures—and establish a safe above-ground-level (AGL) flight altitude. This ensured optimal image capture and minimized operational risk.
Yet after the first day, it became clear that relying solely on drone-based data collection would not be sufficient. Processing imagery required several hours, and field progress lagged behind projections.
Leveraging Laser Rangefinder Technology
To improve efficiency, George integrated equipment from Laser Technology Inc. (LTI), including the TruPulse® 360 laser rangefinder. Having used LTI instruments for mapping-grade measurements over more than a decade, he recognized their value in precision surveying.
The TruPulse 360 supported rapid site walk-throughs prior to UAV deployment. George used it to:
- Identify peak elevations for safe flight planning
- Establish ground control reference points
- Configure flight grid parameters
Because the laser rangefinder is compact and highly mobile, it significantly reduced setup time while maintaining measurement accuracy. In complex urban settings, that flexibility translated directly into productivity gains.
Addressing Data Gaps from Aerial Imagery
As field teams began processing UAV imagery, another issue emerged: certain features were not fully captured. Smaller trees—especially those without leaves or partially obstructed by surrounding structures—were difficult to identify clearly from aerial photography.
Although these trees might not directly interfere with antenna placement, their presence still required documentation. Using the LTI laser, the team recorded tree positions and heights in the field, enabling drafters to incorporate them into final plats without requiring a return visit.
Vegetation canopy measurements were particularly important. While vertical clearance informs antenna line-of-sight analysis, canopy width provides insight into subsurface root spread—an important consideration when trenching fiber lines to support new small cell installations.
After UAV flights were complete, DDSI field crews conducted supplemental measurements using the laser’s height routine and missing line function, supported by its integrated compass. In areas containing dozens—sometimes up to 100—trees, this hybrid workflow proved indispensable.
Eliminating Return Trips and Protecting the Budget
One of the most significant advantages of combining drone mapping with laser-based ground measurements was the elimination of repeat site visits. UAV imagery processing can require four to six hours before data gaps become evident. Without supplemental field verification, incomplete datasets might not be discovered until teams return to the office.
By capturing critical measurements in real time, DDSI ensured that all necessary information was obtained during the initial visit. This approach protected project timelines, reduced labor costs and preserved budget constraints.
Integrated Surveying for Modern Telecommunications
Urban small cell deployment demands precision. Public rights-of-way contain dense utility networks, vegetation, pedestrian infrastructure and regulatory constraints. Efficient surveying must balance speed, safety and accuracy.
By integrating UAV mapping with laser rangefinding technology, DDSI optimized site feasibility analysis for distributed antenna system expansion. The result was a faster, more reliable data acquisition process—ensuring that small cell nodes could be installed without impeding existing infrastructure, while delivering stronger wireless service to metro Denver customers.
