University uses UAVs to create 3D models of monuments
Researchers at the University of Grenada are working difficult to develop a 3D photography system that requires advantage of the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to render lifelike representations of famous monuments and landmarks. With UAV drones getting a hot item in the news lately particularly in military applications, it’s no surprise that scientists are turning their attention to making use of these unmanned copters to obtain their ends. They are more affordable, fuel effective, and pose no danger to a human pilot.
Although UAV aircraft have been used for some time now to inspect infrastructure that would otherwise be hard for a human to take a look at, their reliability and effectiveness has been limited due to the existing generation of imaging systems. Currently a individual wishing to develop a 3D model of the Washington Monument, for instance, would want to erect scaffolding around the stone tower and take photographs from a myriad number of locations. Clearly this isn’t an optimal method given that it would take a lot of time to reposition yourself and your camera equipment even though attempting not to fall off a tall scaffold.
With this new approach of 3D scanning getting created by the University of Grenada, a UAV operator can flying the aircraft with an assistant taking images safely from a ground station. When the UAV’s batteries begin to run low, it’s a easy point to land the aircraft and slide in a new power pack and get back to operate.
The researcher’s goal in this project is to be in a position to automate the approach of capturing and cataloging 3D models of popular monuments with out any human intervention. Taking into consideration the rapid advances in each UAV and 3D technology, the probabilities are very good that they will succeed!
by way of Phys.org.