Photogrammetry is a technique used to obtain accurate and detailed three-dimensional information about objects and terrain by analysing photographs. In the context of construction site surveys, photogrammetry involves capturing aerial images from drones equipped with cameras and then processing these images to create detailed and precise 3D models of the surveyed area.
Measure stockpile volumes, distances, heights, generate contours, add annotations and track equipment / building materials.
- Rapid data acquisition
- Reduced surveying time
- Improved accuracy compared to traditional methods, such as manual measurements or terrestrial surveying.
- Make informed decisions regarding material management and project progress
Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras are deployed to capture a series of overlapping images of the construction site from various angles. The drone follows a predetermined flight path to ensure comprehensive coverage of the entire area.
The captured images are processed using photogrammetry software. This software identifies common points in the overlapping images and uses this information to reconstruct the three-dimensional structure of the terrain.
The point cloud is used to generate a digital surface model (DSM) that accurately represents the topography of the construction site.
The DSM includes elevation information, allowing for the visualisation of the land’s surface features.
In addition to the 3D model, photogrammetry software creates an orthomosaic, which is a high-resolution, georeferenced aerial image of the construction site. This image is corrected for distortions and can be used as a detailed map.
Contour lines are generated based on elevation data from the DSM. These contours help visualise changes in terrain elevation and are crucial for engineering and design purposes.
Photogrammetry allows for the extraction of specific features, such as buildings, roads, and vegetation, from the captured images. These features are accurately represented in the 3D model.
Construction professionals can analyse and visualise the 3D model, orthomosaic, and other survey data using specialist software. This aids in decision-making, project planning and design.
Photogrammetry can be used to calculate volumes of stockpiles and other terrain modifications by comparing surface models captured at different times.
Photogrammetry with drones provides several advantages for construction site surveys, including rapid data acquisition, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to access hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.
The resulting 3D models and maps are valuable tools for construction planning, design validation, progress monitoring and overall project management.
I have worked with DRONE SURVEYING for some years now, from checking a boundary of new land to auditing earthworks. The use of drones on our sites is now standard; we monitor progress and calculate cut and fill via the online software as our sites progress.
The use of regular mass data collection and the latest drone technology and practises will without doubt save us time and money on our sites.
We use DRONE SURVEYING on all of our sites to support our cut and fill strategy, with regular surveys and their cutting-edge software, we are able to manage our sites much more effectively.
Having now worked with DRONE SURVEYING engineering solutions for a number of years, their services have proven to be invaluable conducting our volumetric surveys, progress videos and cut and fill support. The drone data platform has allowed us to get the best from the data with full support and training provided from the DS team
The drone data helps us to make quicker and smarter key decisions to ensure we have budget and time control on our projects. Having monthly surveys on our sites ensures we keep full control of all earth movements.
Using aerial imagery from drone surveys helps us anticipate errors or mistakes in the next stage of development instead of waiting for work to start on the ground. This proactive approach has saved us hundreds of thousands of pounds; a reactive approach can be costly