UAV Image-Based 3D Reconstruction Technology in Landslide Disasters: A Review
Yong Chen, Xu Liu, Bai Zhu, Daming Zhu, Xiaoqing Zuo, Qingquan Li
Abstract
Global geological conditions are complex and variable, characterized by frequent plate movements, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Coupled with significant climate differences, various factors interact to trigger frequent landslide disasters, resulting in substantial losses of life and property. Therefore, landslide monitoring is crucial. Traditional monitoring technologies face limitations when dealing with complex terrains and meeting the demands for high timeliness, while unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), with their maneuverability, high resolution, and ability to operate in hazardous environments, have been widely applied in landslide monitoring. This paper provides a comprehensive review of UAV-based 3D reconstruction for landslides, detailing the characteristics and application cases of UAVs, explaining the functions and limitations of sensors such as optical sensors and light detection and ranging (LiDAR), and exploring 3D reconstruction methods based on UAV imagery, LiDAR, and hybrid approaches. It analyzes the applications of UAV 3D reconstruction in landslide emergency investigation, monitoring, and disaster assessment. The paper identifies the technical challenges faced in these applications and proposes corresponding solutions. In addition, UAV-based 3D reconstruction technology—with its centimeter-level spatial resolution—enables the precise delineation of landslide extent and hazard potential, thereby enhancing monitoring accuracy and improving the efficiency of emergency investigations. This technology provides strong technical support for landslide research and prevention, with significant implications for reducing landslide disaster losses.