2 research outputs found
Deployment of Aerial Robots during the Flood Disaster in Erftstadt / Blessem in July 2021
Climate change is leading to more and more extreme weather events such as
heavy rainfall and flooding. This technical report deals with the question of
how rescue commanders can be better and faster provided with current
information during flood disasters using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), i.e.
during the flood in July 2021 in Central Europe, more specifically in Erftstadt
/ Blessem. The UAVs were used for live observation and regular inspections of
the flood edge on the one hand, and on the other hand for the systematic data
acquisition in order to calculate 3D models using Structure from Motion and
MultiView Stereo. The 3D models embedded in a GIS application serve as a
planning basis for the systematic exploration and decision support for the
deployment of additional smaller UAVs but also rescue forces. The systematic
data acquisition of the UAVs by means of autonomous meander flights provides
high-resolution images which are computed to a georeferenced 3D model of the
surrounding area within 15 minutes in a specially equipped robotic command
vehicle (RobLW). From the comparison of high-resolution elevation profiles
extracted from the 3D model on successive days, changes in the water level
become visible. This information enables the emergency management to plan
further inspections of the buildings and to search for missing persons on site.Comment: 6 papge