Potential Use of Sub-250 Gram Class UAVs for Rapid and Cost-Effective Aerial Mapping: A Case Study at Walimpong Dam, Indonesia Mohammad Fuady Rusnadi (a,b)- I Gde Budi Indrawan (a)- Ferian Anggara (a)
a) Geological Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Gadjah Mada University
b) Ministry of Public Works
Abstract
Topographic mapping plays a crucial role in a wide range of applications, from regional development to disaster mitigation. Aerial mapping using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has become increasingly popular due to its efficiency in covering large areas within a short time frame. However, conventional UAV-based mapping often involves high operational costs and is subject to stringent regulatory requirements, necessitating certified personnel for its operation.
Recent advancements have introduced affordable sub-250 gram UAVs, which fall into a weight class with fewer regulatory constraints, that are capable of performing automated aerial mapping. This situation presents an opportunity to enhance the accessibility of aerial mapping technologies, particularly for non-specialist users.
This study investigates the potential of sub-250 gram UAVs for aerial mapping by conducting a case study at the proposed site of the Walimpong Dam in Soppeng Regency, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. The UAV was flown autonomously in a grid pattern at a predetermined altitude. The resulting data were then compared to mapping outputs from a UAV weighing over 250 grams.
The comparative analysis demonstrates that the mapping accuracy achieved by the sub-250 gram UAV closely approximates that of its heavier counterpart. These findings suggest that lightweight UAVs can serve as a viable alternative for aerial mapping tasks, potentially broadening participation and fostering inclusivity in geospatial data acquisition and mapping sciences.
Keywords: Remote Sensing- Aerial Mapping- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle- Walimpong Dam
