Iterative Closest Point Based Volume Analysis on UAV Made Time-Series Large-Scale Point Clouds

Abstract

With new methods of 3D model creation, the examination of real objects and natural or artificial formations in virtual space become possible. A precondition is that the models be created along the principles of photogrammetry. The bases of the method introduced in the paper are the precise flight ability of small-sized machines piloted by a robot and a mounted camera with distortion-free optics. Surveys conducted by such devices can be faster and more economical than the usage of conventional aircraft requiring human personnel. As long as all the parameters of the devices are known, it is possible to create a kind of 3D model on which volume calculation can be conducted referring to the real object. In this present paper, we introduce the algorithmic and automatized version of the previous analysis method demanding manual engineering work. The solution can be appropriate for the complete substitution of geodetic field work; it produces faster and more accurate results.