Training and Case Studies for UAV-based LIDAR and Imaging Systems
Grant
Overview
abstract
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Small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are often used in 2D and 3D mapping, aerial surveys, worksite surveillance and real-time inspections. When equipped with appropriate sensors, they have been proven extremely cost-effective and efficient in surveying large areas and creating 3D measurements, models and maps. Recent advances in camera, sensing, avionics, battery, control and navigation technologies, as well as policies and regulations at the federal and state levels help make UAV-based sensing systems more affordable, capable, reliable and easy to operate. They will eliminate disadvantages of traditional methods including lower efficiency in data capture, analysis and reporting; higher cost, more manpower and time consuming; limited accuracy and resolution; limited human-accessible in capturing needed information at the jobsite. In North Carolina, individuals and organizations have already started to use small UAVs in their activities in construction and disaster management. For the state agency to better manage and oversee these projects, it is imperative for the state engineers in various units and offices to be familiar the UAV-enabled technologies. Training programs and case studies will be developed in the research project, which will cover small UAV and affiliated instruments and sensors, and how they can be utilized to replace or supplement traditional tools and methods in construction quality assurance, feasibility study of new transportation facility planning and construction projects, and natural disaster management and monitoring. The technology transferred to NCDOT personnel will enable significant savings in managing existing and future projects, and help NCDOT update regulations, guidelines and recommendations for UAV applications in the state.
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