Evaluating applications of the unmanned aerial system in construction project management

Abstract

Using unmanned aerial vehicle systems (UAS) or drones in project management (PM) is a novel methodology aimed at enhancing the performance of the PM system. This technology is still in its infancy, and some serious progress is required to cover and advance in this field. UAS is used in various applications ranging from site mapping, surveying, traffic surveillance, bushfire monitoring and aerial photography. Despite the multiple functions offered by UAS, which are well covered in various sources, industry practitioners still have little confidence and knowledge on this technology. The value of the data collected using UAS technology is still poorly utilised and understood. This project aims to explore areas in PM that can be enhanced while using UAS and understand the added value of adopting this new technology. This research will utilise Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) with high- definition (HD) cameras to collect real time imageries of construction sites. The collected data, with the aid of a photogrammetric software Pix4D, is used to develop a detailed UAS system to determine the accuracy of performed work, the generation of the corresponding progress payment reports, and referencing and tracking information in real time for a residential project. This study also discusses combining the UAS and 5D Building Information Modelling (BIM) data to develop smart construction sites. The UAS-BIM combination enables the project stakeholders to be fully informed of the work's progress and quality to prevent mistakes that could lead to additional costs and delays. The paper identified the primary obstacles to applying the UAS via interviews with the project managers and tradespersons involved in the selected project. Assuredly, digital culture is essential for an intelligent construction site to shift the project team from a passive data user to a more proactive analyser to improve performance and site safety. This research is aimed at building a holistic digital system which will be applied and utilised in Construction Project Management (CPM) fields to improve the performance of site management and the quality of work performed. Other obstacles include ethical reservations, legal requirements, liability risks, weather conditions and the continuation of using a UAS in non-open-air construction environments.

Date of Award	2023
Original language	English