Engineering time-delay photography method and system based on unmanned aerial vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an engineering time-delay photography method and system based on an unmanned aerial vehicle, and the method comprises the following steps: deploying an automatic airport in a preset region near a construction site, installing the unmanned aerial vehicle, and carrying out the pairing; the flight route, the shooting height, the point location and the shooting interval of the unmanned aerial vehicle are preset through modeling software; dynamically adjusting the route and the shooting interval according to the construction progress; the unmanned aerial vehicle automatically takes off according to a plan, shoots the construction site and returns, and stores shot data to the automatic airport; and processing the shooting data, screening out abnormal photos, and synthesizing the processed photos into a time-delay shooting video. According to the engineering time-delay photographing method based on the unmanned aerial vehicle, the whole house building construction process can be recorded more accurately and comprehensively.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of engineering recording technology, specifically to a method and system for engineering time-lapse photography based on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Background Technology

[0002] During building construction, a highly efficient, convenient recording method capable of capturing a macroscopic perspective is needed to comprehensively and intuitively record project progress, construction techniques, and changes in building form. Traditional fixed-point cameras have limited shooting ranges and cannot fully showcase the overall project situation; manual shooting consumes significant manpower and resources and struggles to ensure consistent and continuous shooting. With the continuous development of drone technology, its application in photography is becoming increasingly widespread. However, existing drone shooting methods have several problems when used for engineering time-lapse photography, such as difficulty in precisely planning shooting routes, leading to unstable shooting angles and ranges; unreasonable shooting time intervals affecting the time-lapse effect; and insufficient autonomy and stability of drones in complex construction environments. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The first aspect of this application provides an engineering time-lapse photography method based on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which can more accurately and comprehensively record the entire construction process of a building.

[0004] The time-lapse photography method for engineering based on drones provided in the first aspect of this application includes the following steps: 1) Deploy automated airports within a pre-defined area near the construction site, install drones, and pair them with the drones; 2) The flight path, shooting altitude, shooting position and shooting interval of the UAV are preset by modeling software; 3) Dynamically adjust flight paths and shooting intervals according to the construction progress; 4) The drone automatically takes off as planned, photographs the construction site, and returns, storing the photographed data in the automatic airport; 5) Process the captured data, filter out abnormal photos, and synthesize the processed photos into a time-lapse video.

[0005] In one alternative approach, step 3) includes dynamically adjusting the flight path and shooting interval, specifically: Depending on the construction stage, the construction site is divided into the basic construction stage, the main construction stage, and the decoration stage. During the basic construction stage, the drone's shooting height is less than or equal to 30m, and the shooting interval is 15min. During the main construction stage, the drone's shooting height is 30~80m, and the shooting interval is 10min. During the decoration stage, the drone uses a multi-angle close-up flight path when shooting, and the shooting interval is 30min.

[0006] In one alternative approach, the dynamic adjustment of the flight path and shooting interval further includes: shortening the shooting interval to 10 minutes during the peak construction period of the basic construction phase and / or the decoration phase, and adding close-up flight paths during shooting; and extending the shooting interval to 30 minutes during the slow construction period of the basic construction phase and / or the main construction phase, in order to reduce redundant shooting.

[0007] In one optional embodiment, step 2) further includes setting the shooting parameters of the drone when taking pictures. The shooting parameters are adjusted according to the ambient light. When the light intensity is greater than 1000 lux, the preset shooting parameters of the drone are: ISO ≤ 100 and shutter speed ≥ 1 / 200s; when the light intensity is less than 500 lux, the preset shooting parameters of the drone are: ISO ≤ 200 and shutter speed ≤ 1 / 100s.

[0008] In one alternative, in step 1), the drone is a DJI drone equipped with a high-definition camera, and the automated airport is deployed in a location with a wide field of view, safety and stability, and the ability to cover the entire construction site. In step 2), when setting the flight path of the drone, a fixed flight path is planned based on the shape and layout of the construction site and the areas that need to be highlighted. A circular flight path is set up around the main building, and stopping and shooting points are set up at key construction points to ensure that the overall view and details of the construction area can be captured from different angles.

[0009] In one alternative approach, step 5), when compositing the photos into a time-lapse video, includes the following steps: Periodically export the captured photo data from the storage device of the automated airport or the drone. After data processing, use video editing software to import the photos in the order of shooting time, set the frame rate, and synthesize the photos into a time-lapse video. During the synthesis process, subtitles, background music, and narration elements can be added as needed to highlight key construction nodes and important information.

[0010] In one alternative approach, during step 5), key construction nodes are marked using an image recognition algorithm when processing the captured data, including: automatically identifying concrete pouring areas and adding red borders, and identifying steel structure hoisting actions and inserting slow-motion effects.

[0011] The second aspect of this application provides an engineering time-lapse photography system capable of executing the UAV-based engineering time-lapse photography method provided in the first aspect. The engineering time-lapse photography system includes a UAV, modeling software, and an automated airport. The UAV is equipped with a light intensity sensor, the automated airport has a built-in hard disk and charging module, and the modeling software is configured to perform construction phase division and flight path dynamic planning.

[0012] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows: The UAV-based time-lapse photography method in this application sets the flight path, shooting altitude, location, and shooting interval of the UAV, and dynamically adjusts the flight path and shooting interval according to the construction progress. Finally, the captured photos are processed and synthesized into a time-lapse video, thereby enabling automated and precise time-lapse photography recording of the entire building construction process, providing intuitive and comprehensive data for project management and results display.

[0013] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the installation location of an automated airport in a specific embodiment at a construction site; Figure 2 This is a flight path planning diagram for a drone in one specific embodiment; Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the correspondence between the shooting locations and the main building in a specific embodiment.

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0016] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. All other technical solutions obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0018] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0019] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0020] like Figure 1-3 As shown, the first aspect of this application provides a method for engineering time-lapse photography based on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This method is mainly applicable to recording and displaying the entire construction process of buildings. Specifically, the UAV-based engineering time-lapse photography method includes the following steps: 1) Deploy automated airports within a pre-defined area near the construction site, install drones, and pair them with the drones; The drones used can be equipped with high-definition cameras, such as DJI drones, and an automatic airport should be set up. The automatic airport should be installed in a location with a wide field of view, safety and stability, and able to cover the entire construction area. The drones should be paired and connected to the automatic airport to ensure stable data transmission.

[0021] 2) The drone's flight path, shooting altitude, shooting position, shooting parameters, and shooting interval are preset using modeling software. The shooting parameters can be adjusted according to the ambient light. When the light intensity is greater than 1000 lux, the preset drone shooting parameters are: ISO ≤ 100 and shutter speed ≥ 1 / 200s. When the light intensity is less than 500 lux, the preset drone shooting parameters are: ISO ≤ 200 and shutter speed ≤ 1 / 100s.

[0022] When setting up the drone's flight path, fixed flight routes are planned based on the shape and layout of the construction site and the areas that need to be highlighted. A circular flight path is set up around the main building, and stopping points are set up at key construction locations to ensure that the overall view and details of the construction area can be captured from different angles. At the same time, the daily shooting times and intervals are set, such as shooting once at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM every day, with a 10-minute interval between each shooting, to capture the construction status at different times.

[0023] 3) Dynamically adjust flight paths and shooting intervals according to the construction progress. Specifically, the construction site is divided into the basic construction stage, the main construction stage, and the decoration stage according to the different construction stages. During the basic construction stage, the drone's shooting height is less than or equal to 30m and the shooting interval is 15min. During the main construction stage, the drone's shooting height is 30~80m and the shooting interval is 10min. During the decoration stage, the drone uses a multi-angle close-up flight path and the shooting interval is 30min.

[0024] In addition, when making dynamic adjustments, adjustments can be made according to whether the construction is in a peak or slow period. For example, during the peak construction period of the foundation construction stage and / or decoration stage, the shooting interval can be shortened to 10 minutes and close-up flight paths can be added during shooting; during the slow construction period of the foundation construction stage and / or main construction stage, the shooting interval can be extended to 30 minutes to reduce redundant shooting.

[0025] 4) The drone automatically takes off as planned, photographs the construction site, and returns, storing the photographed data in the automatic airport; This step is the shooting execution step, whereby the drone automatically takes off from the automated airport at the set time and flies along a preset route. During the flight, the drone stops at various shooting points and takes photos according to preset shooting instructions. Shooting parameters such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are optimized in advance according to the ambient lighting conditions and shooting requirements to ensure that the photos are clear and the colors are accurate. After shooting, the drone automatically returns to the automated airport to charge and store the captured photo data.

[0026] 5) Process the captured data, filter out abnormal photos, and combine the processed photos into a time-lapse video; In this step, key construction nodes are marked using image recognition algorithms when processing the captured data. This includes automatically identifying concrete pouring areas and adding red borders, as well as recognizing steel structure hoisting actions and inserting slow-motion effects. Furthermore, the process of compositing the photos into a time-lapse video includes the following steps: periodically exporting captured photo data from the storage devices of the automated airport or drone; after data processing, using video editing software, importing the photos in chronological order of capture time and setting the frame rate, for example, 25 frames per second, to compose the photos into a time-lapse video; during the compositing process, subtitles, background music, narration, and other elements can be added as needed to highlight key construction nodes and important information.

[0027] The UAV-based time-lapse photography method provided in this embodiment presets the flight path, shooting altitude, location, and shooting interval of the UAV, and dynamically adjusts the flight path and shooting interval according to the construction progress. Finally, the captured photos are processed and synthesized into a time-lapse video, thereby realizing automated and precise time-lapse photography recording of the entire building construction process, providing intuitive and comprehensive data for project management and results display.

[0028] The second aspect of this application provides an engineering time-lapse photography system that can execute the UAV-based engineering time-lapse photography method provided in the first aspect embodiment. The engineering time-lapse photography system includes a UAV, modeling software, and an automated airport. The UAV is equipped with a light intensity sensor, the automated airport has a built-in hard disk and charging module, and the modeling software is configured to perform construction phase division and flight path dynamic planning.

[0029] Example 1: Time-lapse photography of resettlement housing construction Project Background: A resettlement housing construction project includes multiple residential buildings and supporting facilities; in order to record the construction process and show the project progress to the owners, the UAV-based time-lapse photography method of this application is adopted.

[0030] Equipment Selection and Installation: A DJI M3OT drone was selected, featuring high-precision positioning and high-definition shooting capabilities. The DJI automated airport was installed in an open area near the construction site, ensuring no obstructions and a strong signal. The drone and the automated airport were then paired and configured to complete the equipment initialization.

[0031] Flight path planning: The DJI Drone 2 software was used to model the construction site of the residential area, and the drone flight path was planned based on the modeling results. A circular flight path was set around each residential building, with a flight altitude of 50 meters to capture the overall view of the buildings. Stop and shooting points were set up in key construction areas such as foundation construction, main structure construction, and exterior decoration, with shooting intervals of 15 minutes. Shooting missions were conducted once each day at 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM.

[0032] Shooting Execution: The drone automatically takes off from the automated airport at the preset time and flies along the planned route. At the shooting location, the drone hovers stably and takes photos, with shooting parameters set to aperture F5.6, shutter speed 1 / 200 second, and ISO 100. After shooting, the drone automatically returns to the automated airport and stores the photo data in the airport's built-in hard drive.

[0033] Post-production: Photo data is exported weekly from the automated airport and composited using Adobe Premiere Pro. Photos are imported into the software in chronological order of capture time, with a frame rate of 30 frames per second to generate a time-lapse video. Subtitles indicating construction dates and progress are added to the video, along with light and pleasant background music. The final time-lapse video clearly showcases the entire process of the residential complex, from foundation excavation to construction completion, and has received high praise from both homeowners and the construction team.

[0034] Example 2: Time-lapse photography of school building construction Project Background: A school construction project with complex building structures and a long construction period. To facilitate project management and reporting of project progress to investors, the method described in this application is used for time-lapse photography documentation of the project.

[0035] Equipment Selection and Installation: DJI M3TD drones were used, featuring higher resolution and stronger anti-interference capabilities. DJI automated airports were installed at high points around the construction site, and their position and angle were adjusted to ensure coverage of the entire commercial complex construction area. The connection and debugging of the drones and automated airports were completed.

[0036] Flight path planning: After creating a 3D model using the DJI Strix 2, multiple flight paths at different altitudes and directions were planned. In addition to the regular flight paths around the main building, close-up shooting flight paths were set for the school interior and special structural parts. The shooting interval was adjusted according to the construction progress. During peak construction periods, such as the main structure construction phase, the interval was set to 10 minutes; during relatively slow construction periods, such as the interior decoration phase, the interval was set to 30 minutes. Multiple shooting sessions were conducted each day, distributed between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, to cover construction scenes under different lighting conditions.

[0037] Filming Execution: The drone takes off on time according to the preset route and schedule. During filming, it automatically adjusts shooting parameters based on changes in ambient light, such as lowering the ISO in strong sunlight and appropriately increasing the shutter speed on cloudy days or at dusk. After filming is complete, the drone returns to its automated airport for data storage and recharging.

[0038] Post-production: Photo data is exported and composited every two weeks. Using CapCut professional software, photos are screened and processed to remove blurry or abnormal images. When compositing the video, rich special effects and transitions are added to highlight key changes during construction. Simultaneously, professional narrators are invited to record commentary, detailing each stage of the project and important construction techniques. The final time-lapse video vividly and comprehensively showcases the construction process of the commercial complex, providing investors with intuitive and detailed project information.

[0039] As can be seen from the above embodiments, the UAV-based engineering time-lapse photography method of this application can achieve good application results in different types of building construction projects, effectively solving the shortcomings of traditional recording methods and providing an efficient and high-quality solution for engineering recording and display. More specifically, its advantages are reflected in the following aspects: Comprehensive Recording: By strategically planning flight paths and setting up shooting points, the construction area can be filmed from multiple angles and heights, comprehensively recording every stage of the construction process and changes in the building's form. Automated Operation: Utilizing DJI's automated airport, the drone can automatically take off, shoot, return, and recharge, reducing manual intervention, improving the regularity and stability of shooting, and lowering labor costs. High-Quality Shooting: The selected DJI drones are equipped with high-performance camera equipment that can automatically adjust shooting parameters according to ambient lighting conditions, capturing clear, high-quality photos, ensuring the creation of high-quality time-lapse videos. Facilitates Post-Production: The chronologically captured photo data is easy to organize and composite during post-production. By adding elements such as subtitles and music, rich, intuitive, and vivid time-lapse videos can be created, meeting various needs such as project management and results presentation.

[0040] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A time-lapse photography method for engineering projects based on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), characterized in that, Includes the following steps: 1) Deploy automated airports within a pre-defined area near the construction site, install drones, and pair them with the drones; 2) The flight path, shooting altitude, shooting position and shooting interval of the UAV are preset by modeling software; 3) Dynamically adjust flight paths and shooting intervals according to the construction progress; 4) The drone automatically takes off as planned, photographs the construction site, and returns, storing the photographed data in the automatic airport; 5) Process the captured data, filter out abnormal photos, and synthesize the processed photos into a time-lapse video.

2. The engineering time-lapse photography method based on UAV according to claim 1, characterized in that, Step 3) includes dynamically adjusting the flight path and shooting interval, including: Depending on the construction stage, the construction site is divided into the basic construction stage, the main construction stage, and the decoration stage. During the basic construction stage, the drone's shooting height is less than or equal to 30m, and the shooting interval is 15min. During the main construction stage, the drone's shooting height is 30~80m, and the shooting interval is 10min. During the decoration stage, the drone uses a multi-angle close-up flight path when shooting, and the shooting interval is 30min.

3. The engineering time-lapse photography method based on UAV according to claim 2, characterized in that, The dynamic adjustment of flight paths and shooting intervals also includes: during the peak construction period of the basic construction phase and / or the decoration phase, shortening the shooting interval to 10 minutes and adding close-up flight paths during shooting; and during the slow construction period of the basic construction phase and / or the main construction phase, extending the shooting interval to 30 minutes to reduce redundant shooting.

4. The engineering time-lapse photography method based on UAV according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Step 2) also includes setting the shooting parameters of the drone when shooting. The shooting parameters are adjusted according to the ambient light. When the light intensity is greater than 1000 lux, the preset shooting parameters of the drone are: ISO≤100, shutter speed≥1 / 200s. When the light intensity is less than 500 lux, the preset drone shooting parameters are: ISO ≤ 200, shutter speed ≤ 1 / 100s.

5. The engineering time-lapse photography method based on UAV according to claim 4, characterized in that, In step 1), the drone is a DJI drone equipped with a high-definition camera, and the automatic airport is deployed in a location with a wide field of view, safety and stability, and the ability to cover the entire construction site. In step 2), when setting the flight path of the drone, a fixed flight path is planned based on the shape and layout of the construction site and the areas that need to be highlighted. A circular flight path is set up around the main building, and stopping and shooting points are set up at key construction points to ensure that the overall view and details of the construction area can be captured from different angles.

6. The engineering time-lapse photography method based on UAV according to claim 4, characterized in that, Step 5) includes the following steps when combining photos into a time-lapse video: Periodically export the captured photo data from the storage device of the automated airport or the drone. After data processing, use video editing software to import the photos in the order of shooting time, set the frame rate, and synthesize the photos into a time-lapse video. During the synthesis process, subtitles, background music, and narration elements can be added as needed to highlight key construction nodes and important information.

7. The engineering time-lapse photography method based on UAV according to any one of claims 1-3 or 5-6, characterized in that, In step 5), when processing the captured data, key construction nodes are marked by image recognition algorithms, including: automatically identifying the concrete pouring area and adding a red border, and identifying the steel structure hoisting action and inserting slow-motion effects.

8. An engineering time-lapse photography system, characterized in that, The system is capable of performing the UAV-based engineering time-lapse photography method according to any one of claims 1-7. The engineering time-lapse photography system includes a UAV, modeling software, and an automated airport. The UAV is equipped with a light intensity sensor, the automated airport has a built-in hard disk and charging module, and the modeling software is configured to perform construction phase division and flight path dynamic planning.

Images