A Comparative Assessment of the Photogrammetric Accuracy of Mapping Using UAVs with Smart Devices

Abstract

This article evaluates <small>UAV</small> photogrammetry systems using smartphones and smart cameras. Image triangulation was conducted in accordance with interior orientation parameters, determined by camera self-calibration. Precise orthomosaic images and digital surface models were generated, and their accuracy was assessed using aerial and terrestrial lidar data. Digital surface models were used to estimate earthwork volumes and verify the suitability of <small>UAV</small> photogrammetry for use on construction sites. Georeferencing accuracy shows that the smart camera performs about twice as well as the smartphone with reference to checkpoints and polygon parts. Considering rolling shutter in the smartphone, it is possible to increase accuracy. Especially in inclined and rugged topography, the smartphone can benefit from applying the rolling-shutter method. Earthwork of volume error is often applied as a legal requirement for some countries, and our findings indicate that a smart camera with a drone can be effectively and economically used in earthworks.