Traditional methods of identifying and mapping change on geotechnical projects have been limited to point-based systems, that require significant time, effort and cost to establish, monitor and interpret. They also rely on a priori knowledge of where change, movement or deformation is likely to occur. However, in the mid-2000s, the application of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) -based technologies for evaluating natural and constructed environments started gaining the attention of geotechnical researchers. LiDAR is a 3D remote imaging technique that can generate high-resolution (up to thousands of points per square metre) surface models (topology). LiDAR data can be collected from tripods at static locations, and from moving cars, boats, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), helicopters and airplanes. LiDAR opened the possibility to monitor sites and to conduct detailed analysis topographical change not reasonably practical with earlier stationary instruments.

This conference will be given by Dr. Matt Lato as part of his Colloquium Tour, organized by the Canadian Geotechnical Society. Matt Lato was recently awarded the Colloquium 2018 and is an expert in the application of 3- dimensional remote sensing in geotechnical engineering. His presentation will illustrate the advantages of 3D remote sensing in geotechnical engineering based on case studies from Canada and abroad. He will discuss the challenges faced when selecting and applying 3D remote sensing technologies, and will present the latest developments in the domain.

Dr. Matt Lato is a Senior Engineer at BGC Engineering, an Adjunct Professor at Queen's University, and an Affiliate Faculty Member at the Colorado School of Mines. He is the author or co-author of over 100 journal and conference papers and in particular of the Site Investigation, Analysis, Monitoring and Treatment chapter of the Canadian Technical Guidelines and Best Practices related to Landslides.