Multi-Sensor Drone Platforms for Comprehensive Safety and Quality Inspections in Active Construction Zones
Senior Scale Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, Karnataka Government Polytechnic Mangalore 575004, Karnataka India.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2022, 15(01), 877-889
Publication history:
Received on 07 July 2022; revised on 19 July 2022; accepted on 25 July 2022
Abstract:
The construction industry faces persistent challenges in maintaining safety standards and quality control across active construction sites, particularly in large-scale and high-rise projects where traditional inspection methods prove time-consuming, hazardous, and often inadequate. This research investigates the integration of multi-sensor drone platforms equipped with RGB cameras, thermal imaging sensors, LiDAR, and gas detection systems for comprehensive safety and quality inspections in dynamic construction environments. Through a systematic review of existing technologies and a case study implementation across three active construction sites, this study demonstrates that multi-sensor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can reduce inspection time by 67% while improving defect detection rates by 43% compared to conventional methods. The research addresses critical challenges including sensor fusion algorithms, real-time data processing, regulatory compliance, and integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems. Results indicate that thermal imaging combined with visual spectrum analysis achieves 89% accuracy in detecting concrete curing anomalies, while LiDAR integration enables millimeter-level precision in structural deformation monitoring. The study also examines worker safety improvements through automated hazard detection, revealing a 34% reduction in near-miss incidents at sites implementing continuous drone surveillance. Despite technological advantages, barriers including limited flight endurance, data management complexity, and regulatory restrictions remain significant. This research contributes a comprehensive framework for multi-sensor drone deployment in active construction zones and provides practical guidelines for industry adoption.
Keywords:
Multi-Sensor Drones; Construction Inspection; UAV Technology; Safety Monitoring; Quality Control; Thermal Imaging; Lidar; Sensor Fusion; Building Information Modeling; Construction Automation
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