5 Criteria for Using Drone Earthwork Data as Settlement Evidence
These are the five core principles for ensuring that drone earthwork data is recognized as reliable evidence for negotiation and settlement, rather than just visual material. Alignment of reference points and coordinate systems: Ensure that site surveying equipment settings, horizontal/vertical coordinate systems, and Ground Control Point (GCP) placements are perfectly aligned with the design drawings. DTM-based progress verification: To avoid distortion, calculate cut and fill volumes based on a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) that excludes obstacles like equipment or temporary soil piles, rather than a Digital Surface Model (DSM). Prior agreement on soil volume change rates (coefficients): Since soil volume changes depending on its state (natural, loose, or compacted), conversion factors (L-values, C-values, etc.) to be applied to the settlement must be agreed upon and recorded in advance. Cumulative records of hidden quantities: For quantities that disappear or are covered by subsequent processes, such as soil replacement or rock excavation, capture periodic photos of the work process to maintain daily data. Cross-referencing calculated values: Establish an objective basis for settlement by comparing multiple figures, such as drone platform calculations, contractor calculations, and transport invoices, based on accumulated data.
