Comparative utilization of drone technology vs. traditional methods in open pit stockpile volumetric computation: A case of njuli quarry, Malawi

Despite drones being successfully utilized for monitoring and detecting hazards in mines, there is limited research on their application open-pit stockpile volumetric computation compared to traditional methods. Furthermore, time, cost, safety have challenged the use of approach. Present study aims fill gaps by conducting a comparative analysis utilizing drone A mapping framework proposed guide mine personnel how conduct computations. The methodology comprises using survey approach measure volume known quarry stockpile. Drone-captured images are processed Pix4D mapper software geometric techniques applied Findings show that smaller error checkpoints more accurate generated model making measurements reliable. quality report showed root mean square 0.019. percentage actual 2.6% while 1.3%. Both estimations less than maximum allowable ± 3%. Therefore, technology provides an accurate, cost-effective, fast, safe working distance suitable computations open pit quarries.