Unmanned aerial vehicle surveying for monitoring road construction earthworks

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry is a surveying technique that enables generating point clouds, 3D surface models and orthophoto mosaics. These are based on photos captured with a camera placed on an unmanned aerial vehicle. Within the framework of this research, unmanned aerial vehicle photogrammetry surveys were carried out over a sand and gravel embankment with the aim of assessing the vertical accuracy of the derived surface models. Flight altitudes, ground control points and cameras were varied, and the impact of various factors on the results was monitored. In addition, the traditional real-time-kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System surveys were conducted for verifications. Surface models acquired by different methods were used to calculate volumes and compare the results with requirements set by Estonian Road Administration. It was found that with proper measuring techniques an accuracy of 5.7 cm for the heights were achieved.