Large scale mapping using digital aerial imagery of unmanned aerial vehicle

Abstract

The advancement in digital photogrammetry has made photogrammetric technique become simpler, faster and lower cost. Currently, this method is quite popular in covering small and large area. This study examines the use of digital camera of high resolution in capturing aerial photograph based on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) as the airborne platform. The study area covered is the area of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia main campus and its surrounding area. Canon Pentax W90 is utilized as non-metric camera for the earth information acquisition. Secondary data of ground control points and check points established using rapid static technique of GPS were used. All the aerial photographs were processed using digital photogrammetric software and the output in the form of contour line and orthophoto were produced. The research output is then evaluated for planimetry and vertical accuracy using root mean square error (RMSE). Based on the analysis, sub-meter accuracy is obtained. As conclusion, UAV system has potential use for large scale mapping or other diversified applications especially for small area which has limited time and less man power. The map or the orthophoto produced from this system can be used as base map in Geographical Information System (GIS) and various fields such as geomatic, engineering, construction industry, planning etc.