Introducing Oskar Johansson, Senior GIS Analyst, Remote Pilot and Maintenance Controller at EMM
Oskar’s journey into drone technology began with his Master’s thesis, using photogrammetry to model hydrodynamic conditions. Since then, he has played a key role in advancing EMM’s drone services, applying cutting-edge technology to support ecological and archaeological surveys in challenging terrains. His recent work includes creating high-resolution 3D models of inaccessible cliff areas, providing crucial insights for environmental assessments. With expertise in LiDAR, thermal imaging, and multispectral sensors, Oskar is at the forefront of integrating drone technology into spatial analysis.
Could you share a bit about your background and experience as a drone pilot with EMM Drone Services?
I started exploring the spatial application of drones during my Master’s thesis, using photogrammetric techniques to model hydrodynamic conditions of estuarine environments. After joining EMM as a graduate, we started exploring similar applications of drones to create high resolution 3D terrain models, as well as aerial imagery, to assist in ecological surveys of complex and inaccessible terrain. As the potential of this technology became increasingly clear across multiple technical teams, it ultimately led to the establishment of EMM’s drone services team.
Can you walk us through a project you've worked on recently, highlighting how drone technology was utilised and the insights it provided?
We recently worked on a project where both ecologists and archaeologists faced challenges surveying a 2km stretch of cliffs due to inaccessible terrain. This area included a known roosting site for a critically endangered species, as well as significant archaeological sites. Using drone technology, our team created a high-resolution 3D model of the entire cliff area, which was shared via a web-based platform for technical teams and the client to explore. This also facilitated workshops with relevant stakeholders enabling more informed discussions on potential impacts.
EMM Drone Services boasts advanced drone technology and a variety of sensors. Could you explain how these tools enhance your ability to collect and analyse data?
The team has added various sensors that give us the ability to perform new and different surveys, as well as collect new data types. We have upgraded to an RTK module for our drones to increase our spatial accuracy of results to a mm level. We have added thermal cameras to assist with ecological surveys to identify species within dense vegetation. The addition of a LiDAR sensor has given us the ability to capture complete point clouds for 3D modelling, as well understanding canopy height distributions within vegetation. Lastly, we have increased our imaging capabilities with a multispectral sensor analysing areas beyond just visual bands, such as creating vegetation health indexes.
How do you ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards while operating drones for surveying purposes?
All of EMM’s pilots have undertaken training and attained the required RePL licenses to fly and manage the complications of operating in within the aviation space. Each flight is meticulously planned using dedicated software and approved by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Additionally, every project undergoes rigorous safety assessments by our HSW team, reinforcing our commitment to safe and responsible drone operations.
_______________________________________
Connect with Oskar
Oskar Johansson
Senior GIS Analyst, Remote Pilot and Maintenance Controller
ojohansson@emmconsulting.com.au
LinkedIn