Drones: An Overview and Benefits

OVERVIEW

Drones are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) which are remotely controlled without any pilot on board. They are operated through a combination of technologies like computer vision, artificial intelligence and object avoidance. Like other remote sensing technologies, earlier drones were also used by military only. The emergence of drones for public use changed the way remotely sensed data are collected. It has enabled capturing of otherwise very expensive high-resolution data at low cost. 

Drone mapping is the process of using drones to capture aerial images of an area and creating 2D or 3D maps and models. 

The drones which are used for mapping purposes are equipped with GPS enabled sensors to record location and height. These can be calibrated with DGPS to achieve high locational accuracy. There can me multiple payloads on UAV depending upon application, e. g. thermal sensors for infrastructure inspections. 

BENEFITS OF DRONE MAPPING

Cost-effective

Drone mapping is often more cost-effective than traditional mapping methods. Drones are relatively inexpensive to operate compared to manned aircraft or satellite imagery. They require fewer resources, have lower operational costs, and can cover large areas quickly, reducing the need for manual surveying or inspection.

Time-efficient

Drones can significantly reduce the time required for data collection and mapping. They can quickly capture high-resolution aerial imagery over large areas, saving time compared to ground-based surveying or traditional mapping methods. This increased efficiency allows for faster decision-making and project implementation.

Safety

Using drones for mapping eliminates or reduces the need for human personnel to access hazardous or inaccessible areas. Drones can be deployed to survey dangerous terrains, inspect tall structures or assess disaster-stricken areas without risking human lives. This enhances safety and mitigates potential risks associated with on-site inspections.

High Resolution Data

Drones equipped with advanced cameras and sensors can capture high-resolution imagery, enabling detailed mapping and analysis. This level of detail provides accurate measurements, precise identification of features and the ability to create detailed 2D or 3D maps, models, or point clouds.

Flexibility and Accessibility

Drones offer flexibility in terms of flight paths, altitude, and viewpoints. They can navigate through tight spaces, fly at various altitudes, and capture imagery from different angles. This flexibility allows for a comprehensive view of the area of interest and ensures accessibility to hard-to-reach or restricted areas.

Real-time Data and Monitoring

Drone mapping provide real-time data, allowing for instant analysis and decision-making. It enables live monitoring of construction sites, disaster areas or ongoing projects, providing up-to-date information for timely interventions or adjustments.

Environmental Impact

Compared to traditional mapping methods involving ground vehicles or manned aircraft, drones have a smaller carbon footprint. They consume less energy and produce fewer emissions, contributing to reduced environmental impact during data collection.

Enhanced Data Analysis

Drone mapping data can be processed using specialized software to generate accurate and detailed maps, models, or point clouds. This data can be integrated with Geographic Information System (GIS) or other analytical tools to extract valuable insights, identify patterns and make informed decisions.

Scalability

Drone mapping is scalable, meaning it can be used for small-scale projects or scaled up for larger areas. Drones can efficiently cover vast territories, making them suitable for applications such as large-scale infrastructure projects, agricultural monitoring or environmental assessments.