Client
BEAR Scotland
Delivery
August 2025
Project Type
UAV Survey
Location
Inverness, Scotland
Scope
We worked with BEAR to conduct a UAV visual inspection survey of various structural elements at Kessock Bridge in Inverness. The objective of the inspection was to capture detailed imagery to assist BEAR inspectors in identifying and highlighting potential defects.
The survey focused on capturing hi-res images of the concrete pier stems underneath the deck level, including; the faces of 24 piers, wider cutwater sections at the base and fendering at the main piers.
Additional images were also requested for scoping future UAV use on an exterior section of the pylons, bases, bearings and main girder splice plates.
Solution
The tide times were a concern when undertaking this project as they determined the visibility of the pier bases. Our team coordinated flights to align with tidal conditions. Two surveyors were deployed, one acting as pilot and the other observer to ensure the AOI was kept clear of pedestrians and traffic during flights.
The survey team carried out four flights to complete the work scope, working methodically around the structure to capture the key features and elements. Hovering was required along the flight paths to obtain detailed images for the client. After demobilising from site, high-resolution images were hosted online via our bespoke client portal and transferred to the client electronically for their own use.
Benefits
UAV surveys allow for comprehensive overviews of sites, as well as detailed high resolution images. The use of this type of survey allowed the client to identify defects efficiently and plan accurate repair works.
- Accurate and highly detailed imagery
- Holistic dataset
- Multiple deliverables from one project
Drone surveys drone surveys can gather data in locations which have traditionally been inaccessible to surveyors. With accuracies in the region of +/-50mm for soft surfaces, and +/-30mm for hard surfaces, drone surveys can provide enhanced efficiency in the field when combined with traditional QA/QC methodologies.
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