DRONES FOR MONITORING

PREPARED BY:
DR. AHMAD FAIZ AZIZI AHMAD FAUZI
Overview

TRADITIONAL MONITORING SMART MONITORING

● Organized real time data
● Rigid plan execution without possibility for last-minute
● Data is collected using various UAV- mounted sensors
changes
(photo/video camera, thermal imaging camera, IR
● Monitoring of construction takes long time to be done
sensor)
● Lack of accurate real-time data showing construction
● Use of predictive analytics and specialized software
progress
allowing for better operations planning and
● Lack of individual approach to different parts of
adjustments
construction
Types of UAV
Fixed Wing UAV Rotary Wing UAV Hybrid UAV

Long range, Endurance Easy take-off, Precise movement Combination of both

Sensors and Classification
What value will UAVs bring to construction industry?

No longer limited to commercial activities, UAVs now demonstrate numerous

possibilities to add business value. Potential business applications are wide ranging
and they offer disruptive opportunities for companies in the engineering and
construction industries. They can dramatically extend human operations by
enabling remote sensoring as well as actuation and predictive capabilities. Such
capabilities offer key benefits such as cost reduction, risk mitigation and quality
improvements, thereby bringing a competitive advantage to their adopters.
Optimise Project and Maintenance Cost
UAVs can be used to automate simple tasks and reduce labor costs significantly,
while providing better accuracy through the use of multiple sensors on the same
platform. They are already used in quarries for topographic surveys, and the
measurement of reserves and storage volumes. They allow quicker stock
assessments with less workforce needed. UAVs can also replace workers on
operations that normally require the shutdown of machinery, avoiding costly
downtime and the use of expensive security equipment. For example, they are
used for maintenance operations in the utilities industry to keep refineries and rigs
operational during inspections.
No Stage Action

Pre-contract Planning Site Selection, Topographic maps, Zoning

Stage
Property Purchase & Site Location, Surrounding, Aerial images and videos
decision making

Site Mapping Site Location, Surrounding, Aerial images and videos

Construction Earthwork estimation & stockpile volumetric analysis Photogrammetry output, digital terrain model
Stage
Inspection Orthomosaic, progress checking

Progress Tracking Real time progress, planning and decision making,

multiple site surveillance

Labour safety & surveillance monitoring, surveillance & tracking labor’s activities

Document measurement of actual site data & document registry Aerial photogrammetry, 2D&3D model, Site assets
monitoring, RFID aided tracking

Post Maintenance Data collection, defect inspection, progress

construction
Marketing & Promotion Visual demonstration

Handover Last stage of Construction As-built model

Help in Decision Making to improve quality
Real-time information is a key challenge for
engineering and construction companies. UAVs
can assist project managers by providing a picture
of the entire project and keeping them informed
about day-to-day progress. They are then able to
take informed decisions quickly and anticipate
planning delays. For example, UAVs developed by
the university of Illinois were used to capture video
data showing construction progress at the
Sacramento King’s new stadium in California.
Reduce Worker’s Involvement in Dangerous Scenarios
UAVs enable organizations to inspect
hard-to-reach or contaminated areas and
to deliver supplies without exposing
employees to the potential risks. For
example, engineers used UAVs to inspect
the 343 meter high Milllau Viaduct in
France, controlling them from the ground
and thereby reducing personal risk.
Use case of UAV in Construction Industry
Monitoring - Construction site and progress monitoring is a crucial job for contractors that are performed by high-resolution drones.
With weekly and monthly site visits, excellent quality photography and videography can be produced on-site at flexible times.
Contractors and construction firms can monitor their subcontractors, materials, equipment, and stockpile volumes as well.

Surveying - GIS is evolving adjacent to drone technology. Obtaining drone data quickly is now an achievable task and can be
performed in almost moments when compared to traditional techniques. The skilled pilots arrive on-site to collect all aerial data
required for photogrammetry, without hindering any on-going constructions or activities

Progress Reporting - Staying informed with all stakeholders involved in the construction process is vital. Progress reports are a great
way to keep track of activities, keeping investors involved, saving costs through staying on track always. Drones capture accurate
and timely information that can be transformed into reports for future use as well. The data can be represented as 3D models of the
site, orthomosaic maps, and other photogrammetry data to check site progress.

Inventory Management - Keeping track of all the material, equipment, and inventory on-site is a challenging task. Using
photogrammetry, captured drone data can help you keep an eye on the assets at your convenience instead of exhausting hours
operating at the construction site.

Volumetric Estimation - Through specific volumetric measurements, the construction firms can keep an eye on the size of the
material entering and leaving the site. Stockpile measurement results in preserved time and funds for the users.

Structural Integrity Maintenance - Regular quality checks of the site; its elevation is a practice that should be carried out without a
doubt. Identifying and inspecting any structure vulnerability aids eliminate possible future problems regarding safety and save high
costs in the event of any lawsuit.
Construction Site Monitoring
● High-resolution drones are used to
monitor the construction site and
progress.
● Weekly and monthly site visits
produce excellent quality
photography and videography.
● Contractors can monitor their
subcontractors, materials, equipment,
and stockpile volumes.
Surveying with Drones
● GIS is evolving adjacent to drone
technology.
● Skilled pilots arrive on-site to collect
all aerial data required for
photogrammetry.
● Obtaining drone data quickly is now
an achievable task.
Progress Reporting
● Drones capture accurate and timely
information that can be transformed
into progress reports.
● Progress reports keep stakeholders
involved and save costs by staying on
track.
● The data can be represented as 3D
models of the site, orthomosaic maps,
and other photogrammetry data to
check site progress.
Inventory Management and
Volumetric Estimation
● Captured drone data can help keep
track of the material, equipment, and
inventory on-site.
● Volumetric measurements can keep
an eye on the size of material
entering and leaving the site.
● Stockpile measurement results in
preserved time and funds for the
users.
Structural Integrity Maintenance
● Regular quality checks of the site's
elevation aid in identifying and
inspecting any structure vulnerability.
● This helps eliminate possible future
problems regarding safety and save
high costs in the event of any lawsuit.
Deliverables
● 2D Orthomosaic
● 3D SURFACE models
● Project monitoring
● Volumetric measurements
● Construction Site Mapping
● Quality check
● Building surveillance
● Elevation models
● Map overlay
● Project video
● Aerial documentation
IMPORTANT APPLICATIONS OF DRONES AND UAVS IN
CONSTRUCTION MONITORING
3D Mapping - Through accurate Aerial monitoring and inspections, Drones provide
data for 3D creations and orthomosaic maps of the construction sites. Topography
enables seizing specific site-maps, including contours and terrain, to be systematically
captured, updated, and collected as online maps for convenient inspection of objects.
3D Mapping gives rise to greater control over projects, updating stakeholders
frequently, and easy detection of illegal constructions by the government, in a fraction
of the time and expense of traditional practices.

Aerial Photography & 3D Modelling - Aerial photography and videography are often
used to provide clients with compelling and essential visuals of the construction and
how it will be in the future. 3D models enable detailed representations of the
constructor's vision and can conveniently be viewed online. Architects and interior
designers rely on these models for future planning and landscaping.

Construction Progress Monitoring - As the project continues to embody the

constructor's vision, it is crucial to develop regular flight routes over and around the
construction site for real-time progress monitoring. This data assists developers,
stakeholders, and all others engaging in the process of the construction. Monthly site
visits are encouraged to keep an eye at the advancements to fulfill significant
milestones for the company.

Volumetric Measurement - Aerial Photogrammetry warrants seizing extensive areas

(2D and 3D) with almost 99% accuracy. The volumetric measurements are not just
highly accurate, but also quick to capture, cost-efficient, and very convenient as they
do not disrupt any day-to-day operations on-site.
UAV, BIM and Construction
● Using BIM and UAVs data created provides useful and smart ways of site supervision and
management. Improved method involves integration of BIM-laser scanning to quality
surveying in construction project life cycle
● BIM has ability to depict the project development in an open and extremely collaborative
environment for the Construction Industry
● AEC professionals are integrating BIM and Drone technologies for capturing the real-world
environment. Residential and commercial architecture companies use drones and laser
scanning technology for capturing data about real-world environments. Combining the
power of laser scan technology and BIM software enables competent architecture
engineering service providers to analyze data in real time and make the right decisions for
meeting the client’s needs.
Advantages of Using UAV
● Time and Cost Savings
○ Drones can significantly reduce the time required for project monitoring compared to traditional methods. They can cover large areas
quickly and efficiently, providing a comprehensive view of the project site.
○ With drones, there is no need for manual inspections or extensive fieldwork, which can be time-consuming and costly. This leads to
reduced labor costs and increased productivity.
● Enhanced Safety and Reduced Risks for Personnel:
○ Drone-based project monitoring eliminates the need for personnel to physically access hazardous or inaccessible areas. This reduces the
risk of accidents and injuries associated with on-site inspections or data collection.
○ By deploying drones, project managers can keep their staff away from potentially dangerous environments, such as construction sites or
areas with unstable terrain.
● Improved Data Accuracy and Quality:
○ Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, enabling them to capture detailed and precise data. This results in
improved accuracy and quality of the collected information.
○ The aerial perspective provided by drones allows for comprehensive documentation of the project site, minimizing the chances of missing
critical details.
○ Drone data can be captured in various formats, including images, videos, and sensor readings, providing a rich dataset for analysis and
decision-making.
● Real-time Monitoring and Reporting:
○ Drones offer real-time monitoring capabilities, allowing project managers to receive live updates on the project's progress. This facilitates
proactive decision-making and timely intervention in case of any issues or delays.
○ Real-time reporting enables project stakeholders to stay informed about the project's status and make well-informed decisions based on
up-to-date information.
● Efficient Resource Allocation and Planning:
○ By using drones for project monitoring, managers can gain valuable insights into resource utilization, identify areas of inefficiency, and
optimize resource allocation.
○ Drone data can provide accurate measurements, such as volume calculations, area mapping, and progress tracking, which can be used
for effective project planning and resource allocation.
○ The ability to analyze drone-collected data helps in identifying bottlenecks, improving workflow, and streamlining project execution.
Challenges and Limitations of UAV
Some limitations are:
EXTRA INFORMATION

● drone regulations continue to change, In the U.K., the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)

restricts drones from flying above 500 feet. Any

● optimal use of a drone requires the drone weighing more than a half-pound must be

services of a trained professional, registered with the CAA. The agency has also

published its "Dronecode":

● drones have a limited flight time,
● drones don’t fly well in high wind ● Don't fly near airports or airfields.

conditions ● Remember to stay below 400

feet and at least 150 feet away

● drones may require a specialized data from buildings and people.

pipeline. ● Observe your drone at all times.

● Never fly near aircraft.

● Enjoy responsibly.
Drones Regulation in Malaysia
Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM)

● Small Unmanned Aircraft System: Drones with a maximum weight of 20 kilograms

● Small Unmanned Surveillance Aircraft: Drones that weigh a maximum of 20 kilograms and are equipped with data
acquisition devices (such as cameras and microphones).
● Unmanned Aircraft System more than 20kg: All other drones weighing more than 20 kg

From a weight of 20 kilograms, authorization is required.

● In Malaysia, the maximum permitted ascent height is 120 meters (400 feet).
● Flights of drones over designated areas (areas for residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational purposes)
● In Malaysia, drone flights are permitted only within visual range. However, under certain conditions, experienced pilots
can conduct FPV flights.
● Within 150 meters of each designated area, drone flights
● We strongly advise you to obtain aviation liability insurance before conducting drone operations in Malaysia.
● Drone flights over crowds of more than 1,000 people in open spaces
● Drone flights within 150 meters of any outdoor gathering of over 1000 people
● Drone flights within 50 meters of any ship, vehicle, or structure that is not under the pilot’s control
● Drone flights are restricted to a radius of 50 meters around each person.
● During takeoff and landing, drones fly within 30 meters of each person.
● You must maintain 4.5 kilometers (3 miles) from airports and heliports. \
● Flights are permitted only during daylight hours.
Information about Drone permits in Malaysia
Before applying for a CAAM permit, you must first obtain permission from the landowner whose property you intend to fly
over. Additionally, depending on your circumstances, you may need to get the following documents:

● A letter of approval from JUPEM, or Jabatan Ukur dan Pemetaan Malaysia, is required for any drone activity
involving aerial mapping, aerial photography, filming, or videography. The application fee is RM 50.
● A letter from the CGSO, or Chief Government Security Office, authorizing the pilot to fly in no-fly zones such as
Putrajaya.
● A letter of approval from the Sabah or Sarawak Chief Minister, depending on which state you will be flying.
● For foreign drone pilots, an approval letter from the MCMC or Malaysia Communications and Multimedia
Commission.

The Permit Application fees are as follows:

● For drones 20kg and below: RM 250

● For drones above 20kg: RM 1000

The permit is valid for a maximum of three months, based on the dates of operation specified in your application.