Identification of potential rockfall sources using UAV-derived point cloud

Abstract Recent advances in remote sensing techniques and computer algorithms allow accurate, abundant, high-resolution geometric information retrieval for rock mass characterization from 3D point clouds. The automatic application of the extracted local scale rockfall susceptibility assessment, where discontinuities characteristics play a major role rocky slope stability, requires step by logical procedures. This paper presents novel methodology to use discontinuity set tailored Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) data acquisition. method consists 4 steps: (i) model reconstruction using UAV digital photogrammetry, (ii) sets, (iii) stability analysis, (iv) assessment new Rockfall Susceptibility Index. proposed was applied road cut mountainous area Samaria National Park, Crete Island, Greece. Visual validation indicates that areas higher moderate on are adjacent source marked presence fallen blocks foot slope. methodological workflow novelties related clouds estimation Rock Quality Designation (RQD) index, visualization spacing, evaluation persistence Slope Mass Rating (SMR) as well incorporation overhangs into visualization.