Drone Stockpile Measurement
Drone technology has revolutionized data collection and presentation processes for numerous industries, one of which is stockpile/material volume measurement. We help companies in Dallas/Fort Worth in the sand, gravel, concrete, and other aggregate/bulk material industries accurately assess the quantity of material on hand for inventory tracking and other purposes.
We use drones to deliver fast and accurate volumetric measurements of an assortment of material stockpiles. This method of data collection replaces slow, labor-intensive, and risky traditional methods that require long periods of time on the ground. Our method saves time and money while delivering the same high-quality information.
How Drone Stockpile Measurement Works
Using a drone equipped with a high resolution camera, we capture an assortment of images of the stockpile of interest at various angles — from the top down and from oblique angles from various altitudes all around the structure. The data collection portion can either be done by the drone autonomously or manually depending on the complexity of the environment.
Then, we process this imagery in high-end data analysis software that creates a 2D map and a 3D model of the stockpile. In essence, the software stitches all of the captured images together utilizing photogrammetry.
The 2D map is essentially a high-resolution Google Maps-style overlay of the stockpile and the surrounding area.
The 3D model is exactly what it sounds like — a 3D view of the stockpile that can be manipulated and viewed from all angles.
This software is then able to measure the total stockpile volume along with cut and fill measurements. Our clients then receive a report outlining these parameters of interest along with a screenshot of each stockpile being measured.
This end product gives construction, material, and aggregate companies better situational awareness, facilitating better stockpile material management.
The Benefits of Drone Stockpile Measurement
There are several reasons why drone stockpile measurement stands out compared to traditional methods of stockpile measurement.
Speed
Drones can capture the required imagery of a stockpile to be used in the data analysis software extremely quickly. This means that, if needed, data can be captured from several different stockpiles at a given site in record time. And after an hour or so of software data processing, measurement information is available.
Cost
Due to the reduction in time required on site and the reduction in overall project complexity compared to other methods, our clients save money. This cost savings is even more significant when numerous material stockpiles at a given site need to be measured.
Safety
Unlike traditional methods, drone stockpile measurement doesn’t require physically operating on or near the stockpile. We can fly the drone from a safe distance, which minimizes safety concerns.
Accuracy
Modern drone technology allows for high-precision results. The mobility of the drone allows us to capture photos at strategic angles that make all the difference in data computation that would otherwise be impossible to obtain.
And by leveraging drone RTK technology — an enhanced GPS system that facilitates precision positioning — we can ensure that the position-critical data that goes into the measurement process is of the utmost quality.
The result is a high-precision computation that can inform companies’ decision-making processes and support operational goals.