Comparison of orthophotos and 3D models generated by UAV-based oblique images taken in various angles

Due to intelligent transport systems, location-based applications, and augmented reality, demand for image maps and 3D (Three-Dimensional) maps is increasing. As a result, data acquisition using UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) has flourished in recent years. However, even though orthophoto map production and research using UAVs are flourishing, few studies on 3D modeling have been conducted. In this study, orthophoto and 3D modeling research was performed using various angle images acquired by a UAV. For orthophotos, accuracy was evaluated using a GPS (Global Positioning System) survey that employed VRS (Virtual Reference Station) acquired checkpoints. 3D modeling was evaluated by calculating the RMSE (Root Mean Square Error) of the difference between the outline height values of buildings obtained from the GPS survey to the corresponding 3D modeling height values. The orthophotos satisfied the acceptable accuracy of NGII (National Geographic Information Institute) for a 1/500 scale map from all angles. In the case of 3D modeling, models based on images taken at 45 degrees revealed better accuracy of building outlines than models based on images taken at 30, 60, or 75 degrees. To summarize, it was shown that for orthophotos, the accuracy for 1/500 maps was satisfied at all angles; for 3D modeling, images taken at 45 degrees produced the most accurate models.