1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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.

10. 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

11. 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