Terrain models

Terrain and surface models represent different aspects of the landscape.

DTM (Digital Terrain Model)

Represents the bare ground surface with vegetation and objects removed.

Typically used for:

• Drainage and hydrological analysis
• Terrain modelling
• Infrastructure and engineering design
• Earthworks planning

DSM (Digital Surface Model)

Represents everything visible on the surface, including:

• Vegetation
• Buildings
• Infrastructure
• Other above-ground objects

Typically used for:

• Surface analysis
• Visualization
• Volume calculations
• Urban and environmental modelling

Together, DTM and DSM datasets provide a complete understanding of terrain shape and surface conditions.

Terrain models support a wide range of geospatial and engineering workflows:

• Infrastructure planning for roads, railways, and utilities
• Construction and earthworks design
• Flood modelling and hydrological analysis
• Volume calculations and mass balance
• Urban and land-use planning
• Environmental and landscape analysis
• Base datasets for GIS, CAD, and BIM workflows

FROST uses drone-mounted LiDAR systems and high-resolution imagery to generate accurate terrain datasets.

Our workflow includes:

• High-density LiDAR and photogrammetric data capture
• GNSS and ground control for precise positioning
• Classification of terrain and surface features
• Generation of clean and consistent terrain models

This enables reliable results even in:

• Dense vegetation
• Steep or complex terrain
• Urban environments with mixed structures

High-quality terrain models depend on both accurate data capture and robust processing workflows.

FROST ensures:

• Accurate ground classification
• High spatial resolution
• Consistent model quality across the project area
• Reliable elevation data for engineering and analysis

LiDAR-based DTMs are particularly effective in vegetated environments where traditional surveying methods are limited.

We deliver terrain datasets ready for direct integration into professional workflows, including:

• Digital Terrain Models (DTM)
• Digital Surface Models (DSM)
• Grid models and raster datasets
• GIS- and CAD-ready files