№81-7
Application of drone-based photogrammetry for monitoring surface deformation in open-pit mines
O. Pashchenko1, Yu. Zabolotna1, Ye. Koroviaka1, V. Rastsvietaiev1
1Dnipro University of Technology, Dnipro, Ukraine
Coll.res.pap.nat.min.univ. 2025, 81:74–85
Full text (PDF)
https://doi.org/10.33271/crpnmu/81.074
ABSTRACT
Purpose. To investigate the effectiveness of using drone photogrammetry as a scalable alternative to traditional quarry deformation monitoring, with a focus on accurate detection of subsidence and failures, and improved safety, using a 50 ha copper mine as a case study.
The methods. Drone-based photogrammetry was employed using a DJI Phantom 4 RTK drone with a 20-megapixel camera, collecting biweekly UAV imagery at 100 m altitude with 80% forward and 60% sideways overlap. About 1,200 images per session were captured in 2 hours, achieving a 5 cm/pixel ground sampling distance. Fifteen ground control points ensured ±2 cm georeferencing accuracy. Agisoft Metashape processed the imagery into digital surface models (DSMs) at 5 cm/pixel using structure-from-motion algorithms. Deformation was calculated via DSM differencing (Δh = DSMt2 – DSMt1), and a random forest model classified zones as stable (Δh < 5 cm), moderate risk (5–10 cm), or high risk (>10 cm).
Findings. Vertical displacements ranged from 5 cm in stable areas to 15 cm in high-risk zones near the eastern slope, with a mean of -5.1 cm. The method achieved ±3 cm accuracy, validated by ground control points, and reduced survey time by 40%, from 5 days to 3 days, covering 16.7 hectares per day versus 10 hectares for traditional methods, enabling frequent monitoring and comprehensive deformation mapping.
The originality. The study identified dependencies between spatial parameters of the relief and the risk of instability in quarries. Displacement over 10 cm and slopes over 30° correlate with a high risk of landslides. Occlusions and lighting cause errors of 15% of the DSM, indicating the need for corrections and improvement of the methodology.
Practical implementation. The data identified risk areas, including 15cm subsidence, preventing collapses. A 40% reduction in time allowed monitoring twice a week, which facilitated timely decisions. Highly accurate DSM optimized excavation and reduced environmental impact, improving quarry safety and sustainability.
Keywords: drone-based photogrammetry, surface deformation monitoring, open-pit mining safety, digital surface models, UAV applications in geodesy, mine surveying efficiency.
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