Flyability, in partnership with FARO technologies, announces a new elios 3 surveying payload for centimeter accuracy in challenging environments
June 05 04:09:18, 2025
October 20th, 2023— Flyability, the leading innovator in confined-space drones, has just announced the release of a new Surveying Payload for its Elios 3 drone at InterGEO in Berlin. This payload marks a significant advancement in drone-based surveying technology, promising to deliver safe, highly precise scans of hard-to-reach areas, all while aligning with Flyability's mission to keep people out of hazardous environments.
The new payload features the Ouster OS0-128 Rev 7, which offers greater precision and accuracy than ever before. It comes bundled with essential tools like training sessions, reflective targets, and specialized processing software, FARO Connect. These components work together to provide users with everything they need to conduct thorough and efficient surveys.
One of the standout features of this new payload is its enhanced photon sensitivity and longer range, which translates into clearer, more detailed point clouds. Additionally, it boasts improved volumetric measurements accurate to within 1% of terrestrial laser scans, making it ideal for professionals who demand survey-grade results in challenging, inaccessible spaces. Its ability to handle symmetrical environments particularly benefits inspectors working with wastewater pipes and sewer systems.
Attached is an image showing the LiDAR payload mounted on the Elios 3.
The new Surveying Payload is packaged with FARO Connect, a robust software solution from FARO Technologies, the global leader in 3D measurement. FARO Connect includes SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) presets tailored for Elios 3 data. During processing, the software automatically interprets reflective targets as ground control points to georeference point clouds and filters out noise. By aligning multiple point clouds, Connect creates a unified, high-quality output for easy visualization. Data can be exported in standard formats, ensuring seamless integration into existing workflows.
Adrien Briod, CTO and co-founder of Flyability, expressed his excitement about the new payload: "This new Surveying Payload takes drone-based surveying to the next level. As our second payload for the Elios 3, it supports our vision of regular drone inspections with minimal equipment changes."
Leo Martinez, Director of Mapping Products at FARO Technologies, echoed this sentiment: "Flyability’s new survey package is another stride toward simplifying and securing surveying processes. The combination of FARO Connect with the enhanced payload’s range and precision presents a powerful solution that we believe will significantly benefit those mapping tough-to-reach locations."
Users now have the flexibility to choose the level of precision required for their Elios 3 surveys based on their specific industry needs. The new Surveying Payload is available for purchase directly from Flyability and its authorized resellers. For more details, visit the Flyability website.
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About Flyability
Flyability, a Swiss drone manufacturer, focuses solely on eliminating the need for humans to perform risky tasks. Their drones are designed to navigate indoor and complex environments. The Elios 3, launched in 2022, was followed by an additional radiation detection (RAD) payload. Headquartered in Paudex, Lausanne, Flyability also maintains offices in China, Singapore, and the USA.
Contact: +41 21 311 55 00
About FARO
For over four decades, FARO has been a trailblazer in #RealityCapture, merging the physical and digital realms through data-driven precision. Their industry-leading technologies empower customers to measure their surroundings and leverage that data to make informed decisions swiftly. Learn more at www.faro.com.
Media Contact: Carlee Wendell