Examining the practicality and accuracy of Unmanned Aerial System Topographic Mapping (Drones) Compared to Traditional Topographic Mapping

This paper examines the accuracy of the limitations of using drone to generate contour maps. Contour mapping involves the location of elevation datum referenced in the x, y and z planes to accurately depict the contours of an area and for generating topographic maps. Traditionally, this was conducted by using Total Station and other surveying tools which is based on manually locating points on the site using the angle and distance method often referred to as trigonometric leveling. This method is usually labor intensive and relatively time consuming. Several “Drone surveying systems” were introduced to the market. These systems were advertised to replace the traditional surveying method. This case study examines practicality and accuracy of creating topographic maps using unmanned aerial systems (drones). As a case study a 5.522 acres site was surveyed by traditional methods and by Kespry© 2 drone to collect the surface data required to generate a topographic map. The results showed the drone readings are within an average accuracy of 0.0075 ft and 0.0175 for the northing and easting distances respectively with a standard deviation of 0.022ft. and 0.029 ft. and a range of 0.02 ft. The Elevation accuracy average was 0.332 ft with a standard deviation of 0.278 ft. and a range of 0.77 ft. The difference in the calculated cut and fill volume between the drone system and the traditional system was 8.2% The results indicated that topographic mapping using drones can generate topographic maps with acceptable accuracy for general site grading. The Drone system also saves time and reduce human error. However, it usually requires subcontracting the work to a company with special training personnel who have access to special analytical software and relatively expensive equipment. Special Drone flight permissions is also required for some sites.