Managing Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology with

up-to-date Technologies; GIS, Drones & AI.

Integration of Geospatial Network Analysis & Geotechnical Engineering

Dr. Younis Saeedrashed

8-9/12/2024
 Contents

Definition and the scope of the Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology (TIG)

TIG Principles

Needs Analysis and Allocation of Budget

Big Data Management and IT-Security

Network Analysis & Mapping

Mapping: Methodology, GIS/ RS Levels and (Hardware, GIS/ RS Software, and GIS-Skill, Capacity & Competency)

GIS for TIG

Remote Sensing for TIG (Satellite Images, Aerial Geo-photography)

Drones for Aerial Mapping (Drone Photogrammetry)

AI for TIG (Programming Language, Machine Learning and Deep Learning)

References
Definition and the scope of the TIG

Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology is a dedicated platform for

showcasing new developments in transportation-related geotechnology;

Profiles global advancements in transportation-related geotechnology.

Includes bridges, tunnels, roads, highways, railways, seaports, airports, and
other critical infrastructure elements.

Covers design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure, materials,
sustainability, and environmental issues.

Addresses a broad range of subjects within the discipline.
 Principles of Transportation Infrastructure Geotechnology

Transport infrastructure refers to the physical components and networks that enable the movement of
people, goods, and services in a society. It includes roads, railways, airports, ports, and other associated
facilities. These assets are essential for economic activity, social interaction, and personal mobility.


All infrastructures and transportation hubs are either built on or within the subsurface consisting of soils and
rock. Geotechnical engineering is therefore the foundation of all transportation infrastructure projects.
All infrastructures and transportation hubs are either built on or within the subsurface consisting of soils and rock

Geotechnics is applied when planning infrastructure such as roads and tunnels as well as buildings and
other constructions.


Hence, geotechnical engineering plays an important role in one of the greatest challenges of modern
society: continuing to provide a safe, secure, efficient and affordable transportation network for people and
goods.


Advanced technology (GIS, RS, Aerial Geo-photogrammetry, GeoAI) plays a vital role in solving constraints
and overcome challenges.
 Types of Transport Infrastructure

Five types of transport infrastructure

Transport infrastructure is the fixed installations,
structures, and networks that provide a framework for
the movement of people and goods. Urban transport
infrastructure can be collated under five broad
headings: Roads, Bridges and tunnels, Rail and
trams, Waterways, Bike paths and walkways
Transportation Infrastructures and their Constraints
Needs Analysis, Scheduled Project, and Budget Scale

 Needs Analysis
 1. Scope of the project
 2. Stakeholders
 3. Available resources (data, equipment, human capacity, etc)
 4. Determined Phases ( studies e.g. Feasibility, EIA, Design & Evaluation + Implementation)

 Scheduled Project
 As a short-term project or long-term project
 Budget Scale
 Small allocated budget or medium or massive
Cross-disciplinary nature of GIS/ RS

Digital Photo-
Mapping grammetry
Computer
Aided Drones
Design0 GIS

Databases Surveying
Geo AI
Remote
Sensing
Big Data Management and IT-Security


Data Inventory & Modern Techniques in Data Inventory

Data Indexing

Geo-referencing Topographic Raster Data with different scales

Mosaic Satellite Images Rasters and Geo-referencing with different
resolution

Vector Data Sketching/ Extracting Data & Information

Data Storage (Database Management System)

Data Transfer

IT- Security / Cyber-Security
Data Inventory

There are many agencies and organizations which

provide different kinds of raster images. U.S. Geology
Survey, FAO, and Geo Community are sources where
spatial data can be obtained. However, data those are in
high resolution cost a great deal of money and are
available commercially. Quick bird and IKONOS provide
such high resolution raster images to their customers.
Data Indexing
 Raster Data Geo-referencing/ Registration

Category: Universal Transverse Mercator (WGS84).

Category Members: UTM Zone 38, Northern Hemisphere (WGS84) (EPSG
32638)
Rectifying & Modifying Geo-referencing Raster Data
Vector Data Sketching
GIS- Sketching Layers
Topographic and Geologic Raster Maps

Geo-referenced and Rectified Raster Image using ArcGIS

Data Storage (Database Management System)
Remote Sensing -

Mosaic Raster images

SI- Electromagnetic Spectrum

Image taken from CRISP website

Image taken
Image fromfrom
taken CRISP website
CRISP website

Only a narrow band from about 400 to 700 nm is visible to the human eye
SI-Bands
Different objects respond differently to different bands
of electromagnetic radiation.

Pixels - Spatial Resolution:refers to the size of the

smallest object that can be resolved on the ground
It also refers to the size of the smallest object that can
be represented by one pixel

A Scene Pixel size approx Pixel size approx

1-m resolution true-colour IKONOS
0.25 m x 0.25 m 1mx1m image, acquired from CRISP website
Network Analysis & Mapping

Creating (a network dataset, route calculation, buffer areas)

and assessment
Mapping: Methodology, GIS Levels and (Hardware, GIS-Software, and
GIS-Skill, Capacity & Competency)

Methodology;

Data Inventory (Raster, Vector, Tabular, etc.)

Data Indexing

Geo-referencing Raster Data

Sketching/ Extracting Vectors from Rasters

Data Analysis and Thematic Map

Layout / Workspace Print-out (incl. Title, Legend, Scale, Logo, etc)
GIS / RS Levels

Three levels of GIS skills ranging from the qualified GIS users to high
skilled GIS professionals;
1. Beginner level (Principles of GIS)
2. Intermediate level (GIS Analysis and Mapping)
3. Advanced level (Remote Sensing and Image Analysis, Web-based GIS .
Photogrammetry-based Drones, Geo AI, GIS Project Management)
GIS / RS Detailed Training Course

ArcGIS Course, From Beginner to Advanced level

Hardware & GIS/ RS Software


Hardware (PC, Workstation, Cluster)

GIS/ RS Software ( Commercial & Open-source)

GIS Commercial Software (MapInfo, ArcGIS, etc)

GIS Open-source Software (QGIS)

RS Commercial Software ( ERDAS , ENVI, etc)

RS Open-source Software ( QGIS-SCPplugin, SAGA GIS, GRASS, gvSIG, InterImage, ILWIS,
PyGIS, etc )
GIS - Skill, Capacity & Competency


Skill refers to the proficiency developed through training or experience in particular
tasks, emphasizing technique and expertise.


Whereas capacity denotes the inherent ability or potential that a person or system
may possess, which can encompass a wide range of capabilities beyond learned
skills.


Competency is a set of demonstrable characteristics and skills that enable, and
improve the efficiency of, performance of a job/ task. Competencies are not skills,
although they are similar. Skills are learned, while competencies are inherent
qualities an individual possesses – collaboration skills, knowledge and ability


Essentially, skill involves having an ability, capability is using multiple abilities
together, and competency is the practical application of human abilities.
GIS for TIG

Perform a public transport network analysis using the TravelTime API. Use the
TravelTime add-in for ArcGIS Pro to do an urban network analysis.

 The TravelTime API functionality can be accessed within ArcGIS Pro using the
TravelTime add-in. This means you can create isochrone maps and do routing inside
ArcGIS Pro using the API’s capabilities.

 An add-in is a customisation, such as a collection of tools on a toolbar, that plugs

into an ArcGIS Desktop application to provide supplemental functionality for
accomplishing custom tasks, in this case building time travel maps using isochrones,
or filter by journey time and routing.
How to Do Public Transport Network Analysis in ArcGIS Pro | Blog
Improving public transport infrastructure using geospatial network analysis


Using the TravelTime routing tool, we can analyse how
people move through a specific transport network.
Taking a sample of postcodes across The city from
highly residential areas, we can calculate the routes
from these to key areas where lots of people work,
such as City Center.


The data on this map can be used to manually create a
set of points inside highly residential locations so they
can be geocoded using the ArcGIS World Coding
Service, after which we can calculate the routes to a
work location.
Remote Sensing for TIG (Satellite Images, Aerial Geo-photography)

Aerial drone view of road interchange or

highway intersection with busy urban traffic in
modern city during sunny day. Traffic jam
aerial view.
Drones for aerial mapping

Photogrammetry is the science of making measurements from photographs. This technique uses photos to
create maps or 3D models of real-world objects or scenes, capturing intricate details by processing multiple
overlapping photographs taken from different angles. In the last ten years, drone technology has radically
changed photogrammetry. Simply, drones have made it much easier and more cost-effective to collect aerial
imagery, especially in hard-to-reach areas or large areas.

How to Use DroneDeploy to Create an Orthomosaic Map

Drone Photogrammetry 101: A Step-by-Step Introductory Guide

Drones for aerial mapping

 Drone photogrammetry is a mastering the specific skills needed to capture and process high-quality
geographical data.To master aerial photogrammetry, you have to understanding the nuances of
camera settings, flight patterns, and data processing.

 1. Understand the basics of photogrammetry. Familiarize yourself with the fundamental concepts of using drones to create 3D maps
and models.

 2. Explore camera and sensor technology. Learn about different types of cameras and sensors that affect the quality of
photogrammetric data.

 3. Practice capturing images. Gain practical experience in capturing images from different angles and altitudes to ensure
comprehensive coverage of the surveyed area.

 4. Learn data processing. Understand the software tools available for converting images into precise 3D models and how to
troubleshoot common issues.

 5. Implement advanced techniques. As your skills advance, explore more complex photogrammetry techniques such as using Ground
Control Points (GCPs) for greater accuracy.
Advanced Photogrammetry Techniques

Advancing your skills in drone photogrammetry involves mastering more complex techniques that can significantly enhance the quality
and utility of your mapping projects.
1. 3D modeling. Learn to create detailed 3D models from your aerial imagery. This involves using software like Agisoft Metashape or
Autodesk ReCap to process images into textured 3D meshes.
2. Multispectral imaging. Utilize multispectral sensors to capture data beyond the visible spectrum. This technique is particularly
valuable in agriculture, environmental monitoring, and land management.
3. Thermal imaging. Incorporate thermal cameras to detect heat variations. This is useful for inspections, search and rescue
operations, and energy audits.
4. Volume calculations. Master techniques to calculate volumes for stockpiles or excavations, which are crucial in construction and
mining industries.
5. Integration with GIS. Learn how to integrate your photogrammetry data with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for enhanced
spatial analysis and decision-making.
Photogrammetry uses images captured by drones to create 3D models and maps. It’s highly effective in well-lit conditions where high-
resolution visual detail is required. The technology is more cost-effective compared to LiDAR and is accessible for projects with smaller
budgets.
Advantages. Cost-efficient, provides high-resolution imagery, good for mapping in visible light conditions.
Limitations. Less effective in low light or where obstructions prevent clear imagery, such as in dense forests.
LiDAR with Drones
LiDAR technology uses laser light to scan the ground and objects to create detailed 3D models. It excels in areas where photogrammetry
might struggle, such as low-light environments or when mapping complex geometries like forests, where foliage can obstruct visible light
imaging.
Advantages. Highly accurate in diverse conditions, can penetrate obstacles like foliage, and is effective in both day and night.
Limitations. Historically more expensive than photogrammetry, though costs have been decreasing, making it more accessible and popular
So Which Should You Choose?
Despite the rise in popularity of LiDAR due to its increased accessibility and reduced cost, photogrammetry
remains a viable and widely used method for creating 3D models, especially in projects where visual detail and
color are important.
The choice between drone photogrammetry and LiDAR will depend on the specific requirements of your 3D
mapping project, including your budget, terrain complexity, and the level of detail required in the final output.
Some key criteria to consider when looking for a good photogrammetry drone:
1. Camera quality. Look for drones with high-resolution cameras to capture detailed images.
2. Stability and flight time. Stability in flight ensures quality image capture, and longer flight times allow for
extensive area coverage.
3. GPS accuracy. High GPS accuracy is essential for precise geotagging of images.
4. Payload capacity. The ability to carry high-quality sensors and cameras can enhance the effectiveness of
photogrammetry work.
5. Software compatibility. Ensure the drone is compatible with leading photogrammetry software for seamless
data processing.
Type of Drone DJI Mini 3 Pro, DJI Mavic 3, Parrot Anafi USA, eBee X, WingtraOne Gen II

Price 750 - 20,000 US$

Portability Extremely portable with a compact and lightweight design, easy to deploy in various field conditions.
Special Features Includes advanced privacy features for sensitive operations, making it suitable for government and
industrial use.
Camera Options Offers payload options including high-resolution RGB, multispectral, and thermal cameras.
Camera quality Look for drones with high-resolution cameras to capture detailed images.
1/1.3” CMOS sensor, 48 MP photos, and 4K video capabilities.
Hasselblad L1D-20c camera with a 20 MP 4/3 CMOS sensor.
Features a 32x zoom lens and a FLIR thermal camera, ideal for detailed aerial imagery and thermal
imaging.
Stability Stability in flight ensures quality image capture, and longer flight times allow for extensive area
coverage.
Flight time Up to 34 minutes
Offers up to 32 minutes of flight time per battery charge, allowing for extensive aerial surveys without
frequent landings.
GPS accuracy High-precision GPS for stable flights and accurate geotagging
Advanced GPS system for precise positioning and mapping
Offers high-precision mapping with less than 3 cm photogrammetric precision.
Payload capacity The ability to carry high-quality sensors and cameras can enhance the effectiveness of photogrammetry
work.
Software compatibility Fully compatible with major photogrammetry software, supporting detailed data processing and analysis.
VTOL Capabilities. Vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) allow it to operate in challenging terrains without needing a runway.
Versatility Adaptable to various mapping needs with its ability to carry multiple payloads.

Endurance Can fly up to 90 minutes on a single charge, ideal for covering large areas in one flight.
Coverage. Capable of covering up to 8 square kilometers in a single flight at high accuracy.
User Interface. Intuitive planning and analysis software that simplifies the photogrammetry process.
Rugged design Built for field robustness and reliability under various environmental conditions.
Why it is good for precise geotagging and high-resolution imaging make it exceptional for detailed topographic mapping
Photogrammetry? and surveying.
Designed specifically for professional-grade photogrammetric data collection across industries.
high-resolution camera and stability in flight make it highly effective for detailed and accurate 3D
mapping and modeling.
ideal for professional photogrammetry thanks to its superior camera, extended flight time, and ability to
capture high-resolution data over wide areas.
Aerial Photography Drones Software

 1. Drone Deploy (Install WebCatalog then find Drone Deploy)

 2. OpenDroneMap Awesome
 Drone Mapping Software - OpenDroneMap™

 3. PIX4Dsurvey Pix4D Account

Geo AI for TIG (Machine Learning and Deep Learning)
Geo AI for TIG (Machine Learning and Deep Learning)

The combination of AI with geospatial data offers numerous possibilities for analyzing and interpreting spatial
information, allowing for more sophisticated decision-making and problem-solving in various fields. Some key
applications of geospatial AI include:

Remote Sensing and Image Analysis: AI algorithms can analyze satellite and aerial imagery to identify patterns,
objects, changes in terrain, and more. This has applications in agriculture, urban planning, disaster response, and
environmental monitoring.

Location-Based Services (LBS): AI-driven location-based services personalize experiences for users by leveraging
location data. Examples include navigation apps, location-based advertising, and recommendation systems.

Urban Planning and Development: Geospatial AI can aid in urban planning by predicting traffic patterns, identifying
suitable locations for infrastructure, and managing resources efficiently.

Natural Resource Management: AI can assist in managing and optimizing natural resources by monitoring forestry,
water resources, and land use.

Disaster Response and Management: Geospatial AI helps in predicting and managing natural disasters by analyzing
historical data, weather patterns, and vulnerable areas, improving emergency responses.

Environmental Monitoring: It enables the monitoring and analysis of environmental changes, such as deforestation,
climate change impacts, and biodiversity conservation.
References

Aerial Photography Drones - Geo-matching


Drone Photogrammetry 101: A Step-by-Step Introductory Guide


Transportation Infrastructures and their Constraints | The Geography of Transport Systems


ArcGIS Course, From Beginner to Advanced level


How to Do Public Transport Network Analysis in ArcGIS Pro | Blog


GeoAI: Machine Learning & Deep Learning with GIS


Where Deep Learning Meets GIS

13 Open Source Remote Sensing Software Packages - GIS Geography
Discussio
n &Thank
You