Cleanaway had been using manned aerial data capture prior to engaging AUAV and were seeking to increase the accuracy and frequency of their compaction monitoring.
Landfill sites are inherently complex work environments that are not without risk. AUAV were tasked with monthly surveys of up to 18 sites across 5 states, all to be completed in a 2 week turnaround.
Site access on many landfills is difficult and they are dynamic with filling and subsidence being a constant challenge for maintaining accurate survey control.
The volume and compaction metrics required high levels of accuracy as they informed long term site planning. In 2015 drone survey data was seen as a new and untested technology so a great deal of additional work was required to demonstrate confidence in the data.
AUAV were able to demonstrate that the survey data was fit for purpose and better and more cost effective than manned aviation. The provided data that has successfully informed the management of the Cleanaway assets for over 300 surveys. Benefits have included: