The Fourth Abu Dhabi University Annual Research Conference (4th ADU-ARC) An Evaluation of the Application & Challenges in Implementing Drone Technologies in Construction Project Management Prof. Christopher Nigel Preece, Abu Dhabi University, (ADU) Eng. Abdelgadir Salih, KN International Architects & Engineers

Contents Introduction Review of Current Non Construction Applications of Drones Potential Applications of Drones in Construction Sector Likely Problems in Implementing Drones Technology Conclusions and Recommendations

1. Introduction The construction sector is in most cases and places associated with high risks and potentials gains. To maximise gains and reduce risks, it is useful to utilise latest technologies and concepts like: Organisational learning systems New site machinery, equipment and tools Building information modelling (BIM) In this research we are exploring the potential gains/ likely problems from the use of drones in construction sector

2. Review of Current Non Construction Applications of Drones Unmanned flights are not new and started in 1858 with the use of hot air balloons for aerial photography in Paris. While the first recorded use of unmanned aerial vehicles (uav)’s was in 1915 for military purpose by the US navy. Since recent times, uav’s or drones have been under extensive research in several countries including USA, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Turkey and the UK

2. Review of Current Non Construction Applications of Drones 2.1 Research & Development Environmental and metrological research Archeological research 2.2 Journalism and Film Industry 2.3 Police Work Search & rescue missions Armed drones for armed crime Drug/ human traffickers control Border control Monitor anti-social behaviour in gatherings Environmental crimes control

2. Review of Current Non Construction Applications of Drones 2.4 Inaccessible Locations Nuclear Plants, Oil Fields, Areas Affected by Disasters 2.5 Delivery Delivery of Goods, Food, Drinks and Medical Supplies 2.6 Farming (80 % of Potential Future Business of Drones) Monitor Crops Spraying Pesticides and Insecticides

3. The Potential Applications of Drones in Construction Sector Clients/owners can be linked to the project by films/photos taken by drones from design to handing over/O&M 3.1 Feasibility study stage/ design stage Mapping the project location and photos/films for better informed design decisions Specifically useful for infrastructure projects 3.2 Tender stage Survey the project location for a well informed bidding decisions by the contractor

3. The Potential Applications of Drones in Construction Sector 3.3 Construction Stage Monitor construction progress, safety and quality especially in inaccessible areas. Security of construction site Settle disputes/ basis for payment 3.4 Handing Over Stage Photos/ films taken could the basis for handing over approval 3.5 O&M Stage Check the status of completed construction work through photos/films taken or even detectors for Water/Gas Transmission Pipeline

3. The Potential Applications of Drones in Construction Sector A recent discussion was raised on the future of drones in the construction sector in a Social Network Website Group, and some of the engineers experiences included: The use of drones in projects is still very much under evaluation. Used the tool in construction but flying restrictions on populated areas/roads was a major issue Used drones for taking photos in a construction project. Safety is an issue where a qualified remote pilot is needed to operate the drone and it should be operated when construction is not in operation.

4. Likely Constraints For Future Usage of Drones Misuse of Technology Lack of Knowledge (Training & Certification Required) Risk of Accidents Coordination Between Flying Drones Regulations/Laws/ Restrictions (international/ Local/ Timing) Cost Privacy

Conclusions & Recommendations Drones have been used in several useful applications The use has been limited due to several constrains, including lack of knowledge & regulations, safety and cost Drones have been used on a limited scale for construction, but the use can be expanded widely considering the limiting constraints Drones in construction sector can be useful from the feasibility/design stages to handing over/O&M stages