A recent test was conducted at the River Ice monitoring test site in Nenana, Alaska, where the Autel Robotics' Evo II 640T RTK V3 drone showcased its exceptional mapping capabilities and performance. 

This case study highlights the test results and demonstrates how Autel's cutting-edge technology enables precise mapping in even the most challenging environments.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) collaborated with Autel Robotics for the test, utilizing Autel’s EVO II 640T RTK V3. The EVO II was paired head-to-head with another leading drone, with both being tasked with bi-weekly thermal and RGB data collection and processing, in conjunction with DroneDeploy. 

Mapping in Challenging Environments

The test site in Nenana, Alaska, presents several challenges for mapping operations from the outset. With remote access and difficult terrain covered in snow, traditional mapping methods prove to be inaccurate and ineffective for the region. The project required a solution capable of capturing high-resolution imagery efficiently while ensuring accurate results in a harsh, cold environment.

The Outcome

Autel's EVO II 640T RTK V3 provided accurate, clear results for the project's mapping requirements. Equipped with advanced features and cutting-edge technology, the drone demonstrated exceptional performance in challenging conditions.

Using its high-resolution, 50MP camera, the camera produced steady results without any control points on the ground as a reference. The Autel drone system doesn’t waste time, either - with faster algorithms and components working in unison, the Autel drone produced results faster than the competitor.

During the test, several significant findings were observed, showcasing the Autel EVO II 640T’s performance as a clear victor over the competitor.

Its ability to position correctly down the centimeter level (thanks to its RTK support) also ensured a high level of accuracy, with Autel’s Skylink 2.0 ensuring the clearest possible image results as the drone conducted the mapping process.

Enhanced Image Quality and Resolution

The EVO II 640T provides a notable improvement in both image quality and resolution in comparison to the competitor drone. A higher clarity of 4096x3072 with 96dpi was delivered, whereas the competitor was able to produce results at 4056x3040, 72dpi.

Flexibility in Planning

Unlike the competitor, which was unable to allow changes in flight speed during mission planning, the Autel EVO II 640T offered greater flexibility. Autel’s drones, through using the Enterprise app, offer not only the ability to adjust flight speed, but to redirect waypoints and actions through a scheduled mission, and the ability to assume manual control as needed.

Performance in Cold Temperatures

In the frigid Alaskan temperatures, the competitor encountered battery faults, requiring manual intervention for landing and takeoff. In contrast, the Autel Evo II 640T proved resilient and reliable in the conditions, operating flawlessly even in the cold.

Accurate Data Processing and Mapping Results

The competitor drone, when used in conjunction with DroneDeploy, resulted in incomplete data processing and mapping, as seen here:

The Autel EVO II 640T, when processed using Pix4D, delivered comprehensive and visually impressive maps. The slight color variations observed due to changing sunlight during the mission did not hinder the quality or usefulness of the generated data.

Results and Looking Forward

The performance of the Autel EVO II 640T RTK V3 was markedly better than leading competitors in the same category of drone. The mapping test has garnered significant interest from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, with the team recognizing the potential of Autel drones for mapping projects related to climate change and the recent Typhoon Merbok in Western Alaska.