Applications of UAV technology within the construction industry

Abstract

This paper shows how drones can help with construction inspection, which is currently costly in terms of the safety of workers and time. The paper depicts the use of drones to collect construction data with drone software that allows people to create 2D plans and 3D models. Moreover, the study explains how unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs, could improve job site safety and reduce material waste in the construction industry. Finally, this paper presents an exploratory study that identifies specific ways in which UAVs could improve safety at construction sites. Data collection of large construction projects uses surveyors' tape measures, laser rangefinders, total stations, and mapping software. However, these are time-consuming and costly methods that are impractical for measuring more significant amounts of space. In contrast, the use of UAVs would enable the next level of data collection to occur more efficiently. Specific examples using 3D software will demonstrate the potential applications within the construction industry and the challenges that limit their implementation into the industry. A UAV can monitor worksites and equipment to provide information to those responsible for operations, health, and safety in a timely fashion. The footage creates inspection reports from a distance, thus reducing pressure on-site and providing accurate reports faster. UAVs for inspections will eliminate or reduce the need for risk assessments, supply chain audits, and quality control audits during construction.