Accuracy investigation of UAV Photomapping

Abstract

Drone systems are high-technology products which can also be used for mapping. Drone mapping has recently become very popular for producing orthophoto maps, terrain models and 3D-data over small areas. A test area located at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim was used. To investigate the accuracy of drone mapping systems, we produced a 3D photogrammetric model of the test area. 18 ground control points were created and measured by the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The model was then georeferenced and fitted to 8 ground control points. We then examined the accuracy of the drone map using control points not used in georeferencing process. The root mean square errors in horizontal and vertical positions were estimated at 3.2 cm and 6.8 cm respectively.