Client Need and Initial Engagement:
Iprosurv was approached by a global recycling centre specializing in metal to conduct a Proof of Concept (POC) to determine the feasibility of using drones for assessing metal stockpiles, both loose and baled.
The goal was to accurately calculate the volume and net worth of material destined for processing.
A key criterion for this POC was to evaluate the accuracy of drone-derived data against known and unknown quantities without prior knowledge of the volumes and densities, ensuring unbiased results.
Challenges and Objectives:
The traditional method of stockpile audits at the recycling centre involved manual measurements and density estimations by staff, a process that was not only time-consuming but also posed safety risks due to the movement of heavy plant machinery.
The company was keen to enhance this workflow by integrating drone technology into their UK-based plants.
Initial Consultation and Legislative Considerations:
The first phase involved a consultation to discuss the potential implementation of drone docks and drone usage under current legislation.
It was determined that while the desired autonomous operations from a remote location weren’t immediately feasible due to the need for Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) and operator presence, this would remain a long-term goal in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority.
Proof of Concept Execution:
To kick off the POC, Iprosurv deployed staff to collect data from three sites, with each site being surveyed three times to ensure accuracy, totalling nine data sets.
The DJI Mavic 3E, as at the start of the POC the DJI Matrice 4 had not been released, DJI Mavic 3E was chosen for its reliability and reputation for accurate data collection and flight planning software, with plans to upgrade to the DJI Matrice 4 post-POC for future operations.
Data processing was handled by gNext Labs software, which calculated volumes and generated comprehensive stockpile reports, this software had been extensively used by Iprosurv on previous cases and operations and provided accurate results and reliable processing.
Risk Management and Data Integrity:
Prior to data collection, each site underwent a thorough risk assessment, and safe Take-Off and Landing Areas (TOLA) were established. Test stockpiles with known densities and volumes were strategically placed to validate the data post-POC.
Results and Validation:
Post-data collection, the stockpiles and bales were independently measured and weighed to verify the drone data. The results demonstrated that the drone-derived data was within 1% accuracy/tolerance margin of the independent test validation bales/stockpiles with known volumes and densities, significantly improving upon the previous accuracy margins of 15-20%.
Engage with Iprosurv:
For businesses considering similar drone integrations or other applications, Iprosurv offers comprehensive consultations, training, equipment, and managed services, positioning itself as the premier complete drone solution provider in the UK.