Green Sky were engaged to measure the stockpiles of a quarry in Southeast Queensland for one of our national clients. The client and quarry needed a highly accurate 3D model to ensure that the stockpiles were being measured accurately. To achieve this, Green Sky utilized their drone surveying services and advanced post processing technology to produce a 3D model of the quarry and accurately measure the stockpiles.

The Challenge

Measuring stockpiles in a quarry can be a challenging and time-consuming task. Traditional methods involve manual measurements using a lot of foot power and surveying equipment, which can be both costly and time intensive. The client required a faster and more efficient solution to accurately measure the stockpiles, while also ensuring that all safety protocols were followed on the quarry site.

The Process

Green Sky's initial steps for the quarry project involved consulting with the client to fully understand their desired outcome for stockpile measurements. A site survey was conducted, and a thorough Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) were developed to assess and mitigate all risks associated with the project, including those related to quarry operations.

Green Sky's team of experts utilized the DJI M300 RTK drone, which is equipped with high-precision GNSS and an advanced RTK system for maximum accuracy. The DJI M300 RTK was receiving real time correction through NTRIP. We also used the DJI P1 45MP camera, which captures highly detailed images with a resolution of up to 8192 x 5460 pixels. The use of the P1 45MP camera allowed the drone to fly much higher still allowing highly detailed images to be captured, resulting in a 3D model with exceptional accuracy and clarity.

To further improve accuracy, the team confirmed the coordinates of the closest permanent survey mark (PSM) then proceeded to lay circa 25 ground control points (GCPs) throughout the quarry using the NTRIP connected EMLID RS2+ GNSS receiver. The use of the RTK system through NTRIP and laying the ground control points ensured that the measurements were accurate to within centimetres.

The team processed the data using specialized software and referenced the photogrammetrically generated point cloud. This allowed Green Sky to accurately measure the volume of the stockpiles with exceptional precision.

The Results

Green Sky's drone land surveying services provided the client with highly accurate measurements of their stockpiles, allowing for accurate inventory management and site planning. The use of the DJI M300 RTK drone, P1 45MP camera, and EMLID RS2+ GNSS receiver with ground control points ensured that the measurements were accurate to within centimetres. The advanced technology and expertise of the Green Sky team, combined with the use of precise GNSS equipment and photogrammetry methods, allowed the client to achieve their goals in a timely and cost-effective manner, while also ensuring that all safety protocols were followed on the quarry site.

Overall, the drone services provided by Green Sky proved to be accurate, faster, and more efficient method for measuring stockpiles in a quarry.