New trends in visual inspection of buildings and structures: Study for the use of drones

Abstract

Visual inspection is a very simple, non-destructive technique and usual in diagnosing buildings and structures’ conditions. It also plays an important role in the rapid assessment of constructive problems as well as in the definition of an appropriate way for eventual remedial interventions. However, the use of this methodology often meets difficulties, especially when places to be inspected are difficult to access; it involves security risks for inspectors or even when a reactive inspection of urgent nature becomes unfeasible due to the high costs and the necessary means involved. In this context, the introduction of new technologies, such as drones, can bring substantial benefits. Currently, great focus has been put on this type of device as an emerging technology in the construction industry. This article treats about a reflexion on the adaptability and versatility of using drones, within a framework for monitoring the condition of buildings’ envelope, just as for other kinds of structures (e.g. bridges, viaducts, dams, chimneys, etc.). The interest lies, for now, in devices with a multirotor configuration, integrating high-definition cameras for both photography and video. In order to verify these assumptions, several field tests are being performed, of which some examples are presented.