In the third of our series of 2023 informative blogs, Atlas Aviation explores the 5 Main Deliverables drones provide for the construction industry. The team at Atlas Aviation has a combined 1500h in manned and unmanned aviation and can help and guide customers where required.
Introduction
Drones have a distinct advantage in allowing construction teams to digitize their job sites, providing a range of deliverables that can be used for analysis, evaluation, and decision-making.
Thanks to the highly detailed and comprehensive survey data collected by drones, surveyors and CAD technicians can gather all the data in one go, without having to return to the construction site for additional information, saving time in the process.
In just one flight, a drone can capture a multitude of accurate information, such as high-quality visual images and geo-referenced data that can be processed through photogrammetry software.
This information is useful for:
Building digital terrain and surface models
Conducting mass, distance, and volume calculations
Building information modeling (BIM) and 3D reconstructions
Creating 2D maps and orthomosaics
Overlaying CAD plans onto images of the site in its current form
Providing visual reports and progress monitoring.
Summary
Here are the 5 main deliverables drones provide for the construction industry:
Aerial data collection: Drones can quickly and safely capture high-resolution aerial images and videos of construction sites.
Surveying and mapping: Drones can generate detailed 2D maps and 3D models of construction sites, providing accurate measurements of distances, surfaces, elevations, and volumes.
Inspection and monitoring: Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can inspect structures, roofs, facades, and hard-to-reach areas, and monitor construction progress in real-time.
Site safety: Drones can help ensure safety on construction sites by identifying potential hazards, monitoring safety compliance, and minimizing the need for workers to access dangerous areas.
Project management and communication: Drones can provide construction companies with real-time data, helping to improve project management, streamline communication, and enhance decision-making.
Explanation And other deliverables
1. 2D Map/Orthomosaic
A drone can capture hundreds or thousands of digital photos that can be used to produce high-quality 2D orthomosaic maps, providing a real-world view that facilitates rapid decision-making and analysis of project progress.
These images can also be overlaid on projected designs and blueprints to serve as a visual communication tool, site documentation, and to identify any mistakes.
Furthermore, each pixel contains 2D geo-information (X, Y), enabling the direct procurement of accurate measurements, such as horizontal distances and surfaces.
2. 3D Reconstructions
Drone imagery can be used to create 3D reconstructions of a construction site or specific areas within it. These models are helpful for site inspection and visualizing how buildings or structures will appear in the real world. Interactive maps can even provide a 360° view of the reconstructions. 3D models are particularly valuable for visual inspection, external stakeholder input, or public involvement.
Moreover, 3D data enables the creation of Digital Surface Models (DSM), Digital Elevation Models (DEM), and Digital Terrain Models (DTM). These models can help create detailed topographical maps and aid in project planning and design.
3. Thermal Imaging Survey
A thermal camera survey can identify or diagnose issues that may not be apparent visually. With a thermal camera, construction professionals can spot issues such as heat loss, water leaks or moisture ingress, faults in electrical components, and mechanical components such as overheating. Thermal imaging can also reveal the performance of underfloor heating pipes, and the effectiveness of energy efficiency upgrades.
4. LiDAR Point Cloud
A LiDAR point cloud can be crucial for construction and infrastructure projects, helping to build 3D models and digital twins that are ideal for BIM applications.
These digital models can be used throughout the life cycle of a project, allowing teams to conduct quality assurance scans, cross-check models, and spot errors before they become a problem. LiDAR point clouds can also be used to calculate stockpile volumes and monitor the progress of a development.
5. Visual Imagery
Drones are versatile tools that can be used for a range of applications in construction, including visual imagery, progress monitoring, and inspections. High-quality aerial imagery can be especially useful for inspecting structures, identifying defects, and tracking progress.
Using drones for these purposes is often more efficient, cost-effective, and safe than traditional methods, such as manual inspections or surveys.
Please contact the Atlas Aviation Specialists on info@atlasaviation.co.uk for information
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