A comparative study of using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in surveying projects

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or commonly termed ‘Drones’ are a quickly evolving technology and are being widely used in many different applications throughout today. UAVs are capable of capturing ground spatial information by a mounted camera on a UAV to capture photogrammetric images. The images captured can be geo-referenced using a method called ortho-rectification. A digital terrain model can be created form the georeferenced images. With the easy access and the reduced cost to UAVs this may become a viable piece of equipment for a surveyor that will increase their productivity and provide a safer workplace. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and precision of data captured using the DJI Mavic Pro (UAV) and assess its capability to be used separately or in conjunction with a Total Station/GPS to provide a more cost effective and accurate detail survey. The facets that were tested in this comparison include: timeline of the job to undertake, costs, accuracy, precision and limitations. A field experiment was conducted within this dissertation, this drew on the research undertaken on photogrammetric image capturing. Research into accuracy and precision were also undertaken, this involved flight planning, ground control points and UAV types. Field and office time were recorded for both methods to determine a cost benefit analysis for the surveys undertaken. The results show that a DJI Mavic Pro is more than suitable for undertaking topographic surveys. The efficiency and accuracy of the UAV used were tested in this dissertation meet the requirements for a typical client’s specifications. These results satisfy the aim and objectives of the project. Several suggestions are discussed and are included as recommendations for the future research