United Grading Gains Flexible, High-Frequency Site Validation
Overview
Used Systems
The challenge
Beyond Drone Limitations
United Grading needed a faster and more flexible way to process site data. While drone surveys can provide aerial coverage, they come with regulatory requirements such as pilot licensing and airspace restrictions. These limitations can delay or complicate data collection.
In addition, drone data does not always allow for the level of control the team requires. With SDX-Compact OnTop, United Grading captures colorized point clouds and photo documentation directly from the ground. The data then can be reviewed and edited, including removing machinery or unwanted objects, providing a cleaner and more usable dataset for analysis.
The team was looking for a smoother, more controllable workflow that would eliminate delays and simplify processing.
Our Solution
Sodex Built into the Surveyor's Daily Routine
United Grading integrated the SDX-Compact On-Top into a dedicated side-by-side that travels with the surveyor to every jobsite. The vehicle remains on the surveyor’s truck at all times, ensuring the system is always available when needed.
At the site, the he sets up the base station, verifies localization files, unloads the side-by-side, and drives the project to capture a full scan. This workflow is repeated multiple times throughout the project lifecycle – typically beginning after tree clearing, again after topsoil removal, and several additional times to validate grading and ensure proper leveling. On average, each project is scanned around five times.
The system is used three to four times per week on different projects for balancing, adjustments, and validation. By integrating scanning directly into their routine, United Grading maintains continuous oversight of site conditions without relying on external survey methods.
Customer Feedback
"I’ve delt with drones and this blows the drone out of water. It is much more user-friendly and it’s easier to teach. "
Next Steps
A Permanent Part of the Routine
With the SDX-Compact OnTop now integrated into their standard workflow, United Grading continues to rely on the system as a core surveying tool. By making scanning a routine part of project execution, the team ensures consistent validation, accurate balancing, and reliable topographic data across all jobsites.
The Result
More Control, Less Waiting
With Sodex integrated into their workflow, United Grading can validate site conditions exactly when needed. The system provides immediate, usable terrain data that supports grading verification, balancing, and elevation checks throughout a project.
By having scans available at any time, the team gains flexibility and control without adjusting schedules around external constraints. The result is a more efficient surveying process and stronger confidence in field decisions.
Customer Feedback
"This is a phenomenal setup, a phenomenal addition to not only construction and surveying and grading. It has made our lives so much simpler. The data output, the information that it gives us in such a short time is phenomenal."
Turn your heavy machinery into surveying devices.
