Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents a comprehensive investigation into the comparative analysis of traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques for topographic mapping applications. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of these two surveying approaches in capturing topographic data for mapping purposes. The research methodology involved a combination of literature review, field experiments, data analysis, and comparative assessments. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The chapter sets the foundation for the research by establishing the rationale for comparing traditional surveying methods with drone-based techniques in the context of topographic mapping applications. Chapter Two consists of a detailed literature review that explores existing studies, methodologies, technologies, and applications related to traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques. The review covers topics such as data collection, data processing, accuracy assessment, cost analysis, and advantages and limitations of each approach. The chapter synthesizes the current knowledge in the field and identifies gaps that this research aims to address. Chapter Three delineates the research methodology employed in this study, including the selection of study areas, data collection procedures, equipment used, data processing techniques, and comparative analysis methods. The chapter elucidates the step-by-step process followed to conduct field experiments, collect data using traditional surveying instruments and drones, process the data, and analyze the results. Chapter Four presents an in-depth discussion of the findings obtained from the comparative analysis of traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques. The chapter highlights the key differences in data quality, accuracy, efficiency, and cost between the two approaches. It also discusses the practical implications of the findings for topographic mapping applications and offers insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each method. Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the main findings, discussing the implications for the field of surveying and geo-informatics, and suggesting recommendations for future research. The chapter reiterates the significance of the study in advancing the understanding of surveying technologies and their application in topographic mapping. It also reflects on the potential impact of drone-based surveying techniques on the future of surveying practices. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the body of knowledge in surveying and geo-informatics by providing a comprehensive comparative analysis of traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques for topographic mapping applications. The research findings offer valuable insights for surveyors, researchers, policymakers, and industry practitioners seeking to leverage the benefits of emerging technologies in the field of geospatial data collection and analysis.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Comparative analysis of traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques for topographic mapping applications" aims to investigate and compare the efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of traditional surveying methods with emerging drone-based surveying techniques in the context of topographic mapping applications. This study is motivated by the increasing use of drones in various fields, including surveying and mapping, and the need to evaluate their performance against established traditional surveying methods. The research will begin with a comprehensive review of existing literature on traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques, focusing on their principles, applications, advantages, and limitations. This literature review will provide a solid foundation for understanding the current state of the art in surveying technologies and the potential benefits offered by drones in topographic mapping. The methodology chapter will outline the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques to be employed in the study. It will detail how data will be collected using both traditional surveying instruments and drones, and how the accuracy and efficiency of each method will be evaluated through field experiments and data processing procedures. The findings chapter will present the results of the comparative analysis between traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques in the context of topographic mapping applications. It will provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, highlighting the key factors influencing their performance in terms of accuracy, cost, and time efficiency. The discussion chapter will interpret the findings in the broader context of surveying and mapping practices, discussing the implications of the results for professionals in the field and potential areas for future research and development. It will also address any challenges encountered during the study and propose recommendations for improving the use of drones in topographic mapping applications. In conclusion, this research project will contribute to the existing body of knowledge by offering a systematic comparison of traditional surveying methods and drone-based surveying techniques for topographic mapping applications. By evaluating the performance of these methods in real-world scenarios, the study aims to inform decision-making processes in the selection of surveying technologies and enhance the efficiency and accuracy of topographic mapping practices.