OFF Drones

Drones in Mining for Accuracy and Safety

At the Goonyella Riverside Mine, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance uses DJI Matrice 350 RTK drones to capture highly accurate 3D models for mine planning, safety analysis, and operational efficiency. The drones streamline data collection, reduce risk by keeping surveyors out of hazardous areas, and deliver detailed information quickly to engineers and planners. Enhanced features like robust weather resistance, long battery life, and advanced safety systems make the M350 a valuable asset for modern mining operations.

How drones can assist in:

Mining

Mine Surveying and Mapping

DJI drones like the Matrice 4E and Matrice 350 RTK provide fast, accurate, and safe surveying and mapping solutions for mining operations. They replace traditional ground-based methods by covering large, hazardous mining areas efficiently while generating precise 2D maps, 3D models, and stockpile measurements. Real-Time Terrain Following and RTK technology ensure consistent altitude and centimeter-level accuracy, improving data quality and operational decision-making.

Core Points:

Rapid aerial data collection over vast, hazardous mining sites
High accuracy with RTK and Real-Time Terrain Following modes
Generation of detailed 2D orthomosaics, 3D models, and stockpile measurements
Enhanced personnel safety by minimizing ground survey risks

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Example:
Mining companies use the DJI Matrice 4 series drones paired with DJI Terra software to perform stockpile measurements and pit modeling. This portable drone enables single-pilot operations and reduces the need for ground control points, streamlining surveying workflows and improving safety in remote mining environments.

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Facade High Wall Inspections

DJI drones improve the safety and efficiency of high wall inspections by capturing high-resolution, geotagged 2D and 3D models of mine facades without exposing personnel to dangerous conditions. The Matrice 4 series compact design and Real-Time Terrain Follow mode allow rapid deployment and consistent altitude maintenance over complex terrain, enabling frequent and accurate monitoring that supports risk reduction and operational optimization.

Core Points:

Safer alternative to traditional high wall surveying methods
High-resolution, geotagged 2D and 3D facade models
Rapid setup and mission planning for urgent or frequent inspections
Real-Time Terrain Following for consistent altitude over uneven terrain

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Example:
Mining operators use the DJI Matrice 4 series or Matrice 350 RTK to quickly survey mine high walls, producing detailed 3D models that help identify structural risks and inform operational decisions. The drone’s portability and ease of use make it ideal for last-minute or regular inspections in busy mining sites.

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Site Safety and Asset Inspection

DJI drones such as the Matrice 350 RTK equipped with the Zenmuse H20T payload enable automated, remote inspections of mining assets and site safety monitoring. These drones collect visual and thermal data to detect hazards like overheated machinery or structural weaknesses, minimizing manual inspection labor and risks. Integration with DJI Dock 3 and FlightHub 2 allows scheduled, repeatable missions with real-time data transmission, enhancing safety and operational responsiveness.

Core Points:

Automated, scheduled drone flights for consistent safety inspections
Visual and thermal imaging to identify equipment issues and hazards
Remote operation reduces personnel exposure to dangerous environments
Real-time data sharing and cloud synchronization for collaborative decision-making

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Example:
A mining site deploys the Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse H20T and DJI Dock 3 to perform routine inspections of conveyors, tailings dams, and machinery. The system streams live thermal and visual data to the control center via DJI FlightHub 2, allowing rapid identification of potential safety risks and timely maintenance actions without disrupting operations.

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Key Features

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DJI Matrice 350 RTK Platform

Flight Time: Up to 55 minutes per flight, enabling extensive coverage of large mining sites without frequent interruptions.
Robust Design: IP55-rated for dust and water resistance, capable of operating in harsh mining environments with wind resistance up to 12 m/s and service ceiling up to 7,000 m above sea level.
Six-Directional Sensing & Positioning: Enhances flight safety around complex terrain and infrastructure common in mining sites.
RTK Positioning: Provides centimeter-level accuracy for precise georeferencing, reducing or eliminating the need for ground control points (GCPs).

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Zenmuse P1 Camera

45 MP Full-Frame Sensor: Captures ultra-high-resolution images with a global mechanical shutter (1/2000 s) to avoid motion blur, essential for detailed photogrammetry.
Smart Oblique Capture: Enables multi-angle image acquisition with interchangeable fixed-focus lenses (24, 35, 50 mm), improving 3D model accuracy and completeness.
High Efficiency: Covers up to 3 km² per flight with a ground sampling distance (GSD) of 5 cm, significantly speeding up data collection for large mining areas.
TimeSync 2.0: Synchronizes camera, flight controller, RTK module, and gimbal at the microsecond level, ensuring precise time-stamped data for accurate mapping.

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Mining Industry Applications

Topographic and Volumetric Surveys
Generate accurate 2D orthomosaics, digital surface models (DSM), and 3D point clouds to measure stockpile volumes, excavation progress, and terrain changes with centimeter-level precision.
Open Pit and Quarry Mapping
Efficiently survey complex pit walls and quarry floors using Smart Oblique Capture to create detailed 3D models for safety assessments and planning.
Site Monitoring and Change Detection
Conduct regular aerial surveys to monitor site development, detect slope movements or erosion, and support environmental compliance.
Inventory and Logistics Management
Accurate stockpile measurements improve inventory oversight, enabling better supply chain planning and reducing material loss or write-offs.
Integration with DJI Terra and Third-Party Software
Process collected data into deliverables such as orthomosaics, DSMs, and 3D models in DJI Terra, then export to GIS or CAD platforms for further analysis and decision-making.

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Summary

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse P1 is a powerful, reliable aerial surveying and mapping solution that elevates mining operations through precise, efficient, and comprehensive data collection. Its combination of long flight endurance, rugged design, and ultra-high-resolution photogrammetry enables mining professionals to perform accurate volumetric measurements, site monitoring, and topographic mapping faster and safer than traditional methods. Integrated with DJI Terra and compatible with industry-standard software, this solution streamlines workflows and supports data-driven decision-making critical to modern mining management.

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Portable Stockpile Measurement Solution

DJI Matrice 4 Series: Matrice 4E

The DJI Matrice 4E is a portable surveying and mapping drone suitable for single-pilot operations. Paired with DJI Terra, it can generate accurate 2D and 3D models with significant reduction on the ground control points.

Product Links

DJI Matrice 4 Series

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Key Features for Mining Applications

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High-Performance Imaging and Measurement

Multi-Camera Payload:
- 20 MP 4/3 CMOS wide-angle camera with mechanical shutter for distortion-free orthophotos and topographic mapping.
- 48 MP 1/1.3" medium telephoto and 48 MP 1/1.5" telephoto cameras for detailed inspections and high-zoom structural assessments.
Laser Rangefinder:
- Measures distances up to 1,800 meters with ±(0.2 + 0.0015 × D) m accuracy, supporting precise volumetric and distance measurements critical for stockpile analysis and site planning.

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Precision Mapping and Surveying

RTK & D-RTK 3 Multifunctional Station:
- Delivers centimeter-level positioning accuracy, eliminating the need for extensive ground control points and ensuring reliable georeferencing for mining surveys and volumetric calculations.
Rapid Interval & Multi-Directional Capture:
- Captures images every 0.5 seconds and supports 5-directional oblique and 3-directional ortho capture, maximizing coverage and reducing flight time for large or complex mine layouts.
Smart 3D Capture:
- Automates mapping routes for irregular structures and terrain, ideal for open pits, tailings, and infrastructure modeling.

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AI-Powered Automation and Safety

Smart Tracking & AI Tools:
- Detects and tracks vehicles, personnel, and equipment in real-time, supporting both operational safety and security patrols.
Autonomous Flight Modes:
- Cruise, FlyTo, and POI (Point of Interest) functions streamline data capture and enable hands-free, repeatable missions for consistent monitoring.

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Rugged and Efficient Design

49-Minute Flight Time:
- Extended endurance covers vast mining areas in a single sortie, reducing operational downtime.
Portable & Durable:
- Compact, foldable design for easy transport and deployment in remote or hazardous environments, with robust build quality for harsh mining conditions.

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Seamless Software Integration

DJI Terra, FlightHub 2, and Third-Party Platforms:
- Supports high-precision photogrammetry, point cloud generation, and data export to GIS, CAD, and mining management software for further analysis and reporting

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Mining Industry Applications

Stockpile Measurement & Volumetric Analysis:
Quickly and accurately measure stockpiles, reducing error and improving inventory management compared to manual methods.
Topographic & 3D Mapping:
Generate detailed orthomosaics, DSMs, and 3D models of open pits, quarries, and mine infrastructure for planning, compliance, and change detection.
Safety Inspections:
Remotely inspect hazardous or inaccessible areas, reducing risk to personnel and enabling more frequent monitoring.
Environmental & Compliance Monitoring:
Track land disturbance, reclamation progress, and environmental impacts with high-resolution, repeatable aerial surveys.
Security Patrols:
Use AI-powered tracking and real-time data streaming to monitor site perimeters and critical assets efficiently.

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Benefits for Mining and Construction Stockpile Measurement

Rapid and Frequent Measurements: Enables high-frequency stockpile volume assessments, improving inventory management and operational planning without disrupting site activities.
Improved Safety: Eliminates the need for manual ground measurements in hazardous areas, reducing risk to personnel.
High Accuracy and Consistency: RTK positioning combined with distortion-corrected imagery ensures precise, repeatable volumetric data critical for contract verification and resource management.
Efficient Workflow: Automated flight planning, rapid image capture, and integrated data processing streamline the entire measurement process from field to report.
Portability and Ease of Use: Lightweight design and quick deployment facilitate multi-site operations and rapid response to changing site conditions.

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Typical Workflow for Stockpile Measurement

Mission Planning: Use DJI Pilot 2 to create automated mapping routes covering the stockpile area, adjusting polygon boundaries and enabling terrain-following if needed.
Data Capture: Fly the Matrice 4E to capture high-resolution nadir and oblique images at 0.5-second intervals, ensuring sufficient overlap (recommended 70% sidelap, 80% frontlap).
Data Processing: Upload images to DJI Terra for photogrammetric reconstruction and volume calculation using the Volume tool.
Analysis and Reporting: Review volume measurements, cut and fill data, and generate operation quality reports for documentation and decision-making.

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Robust Visual & Thermal Inspection Solution

Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse H30T

Matrice 350 RTK paired with the Zenmuse H20T multi-sensor payload for visual and themal data collection, enables operators to inspect critical assets from a safe distance. The multi-purpose platform allows for payload exchange to perform different data collection flights depending on the operational needs.

Product Links

DJI Matrice 350 RTK DJI Zenmuse H30T Thermal Payload

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Key Features

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DJI Matrice 350 RTK

Long Flight Time: Up to 55 minutes per flight, enabling extensive site coverage with fewer interruptions.
Rugged and Reliable: IP55-rated for dust and water resistance, capable of operating in harsh mining conditions with wind resistance up to 12 m/s.
Advanced Flight Safety: Six-directional obstacle sensing and positioning ensure safe navigation around complex terrain and infrastructure.
RTK Positioning: Centimeter-level accuracy for precise geotagging and repeatable flight paths, critical for consistent inspection workflows.
O3 Enterprise Transmission: Provides low-latency, high-definition video streaming for real-time monitoring and remote collaboration.

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Zenmuse H30T Payload

High-Resolution Thermal Camera: 1280 × 1024 pixel radiometric thermal sensor with temperature measurement range from -20°C up to 1600°C (2912°F) using infrared density filters, ideal for detecting subtle temperature variations and hotspots in mining operations.
Powerful Zoom Camera: 48 MP zoom camera with 34× optical zoom and up to 400× digital zoom enables detailed visual inspection of distant or hard-to-reach structures such as conveyors, crushers, and stockpiles.
Laser Rangefinder: Measures distances up to 3,000 meters, facilitating precise location tagging and dimensional measurements of mining assets.
Night Vision and NIR Auxiliary Light: Enhanced night and low-light imaging capabilities allow 24/7 inspection, improving safety and operational continuity.
Hybrid Sensor Integration: Seamlessly switch between thermal, visual, and laser modes to optimize data collection and inspection efficiency.

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Mining Industry Applications

Equipment and Infrastructure Inspection
Inspect crushers, conveyors, processing plants, and electrical installations for overheating, wear, or damage using thermal imaging combined with high-resolution zoom visuals.
Hotspot and Fire Detection
Early identification of smoldering areas or overheating machinery reduces fire risk and prevents costly downtime.
Stockpile and Terrain Monitoring
Use laser rangefinding and visual data to assess stockpile volumes and monitor terrain changes with high precision.
Night and Low-Light Operations
Conduct safe, effective inspections during night shifts or in poorly lit underground or surface mining areas.
Safety and Compliance
Maintain regulatory compliance by documenting equipment condition and environmental parameters with detailed thermal and visual records.

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Summary

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse H30T payload is a comprehensive, all-weather visual and thermal inspection platform ideal for mining operations. Its combination of ultra-high-resolution thermal imaging, powerful zoom optics, and precise laser ranging empowers mining professionals to perform safer, faster, and more accurate inspections of critical infrastructure and equipment. Enhanced night vision and rugged design enable continuous operation under challenging environmental conditions, supporting proactive maintenance, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance. This solution significantly improves operational efficiency and safety across the mining lifecycle.

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High Performance Surveying and Mapping Solution

Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse P1

Matrice 350 RTK paired with the Zenmuse P1 full-frame sensor and it's Smart Oblique Capture feature takes aerial surveying efficiency and accuracy to a whole new level. Combine with DJI Terra for an efficient and integrated UAS surveying and mapping solution.

Product Links

DJI Matrice 350 RTK DJI Zenmuse P1 Payload DJI Zenmuse H30T Thermal Payload DJI Matrice 4 Series

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Key Features

‍

DJI Matrice 350 RTK Platform

Flight Time: Up to 55 minutes per flight, enabling extensive coverage of large mining sites without frequent interruptions.
Robust Design: IP55-rated for dust and water resistance, capable of operating in harsh mining environments with wind resistance up to 12 m/s and service ceiling up to 7,000 m above sea level.
Six-Directional Sensing & Positioning: Enhances flight safety around complex terrain and infrastructure common in mining sites.
RTK Positioning: Provides centimeter-level accuracy for precise georeferencing, reducing or eliminating the need for ground control points (GCPs).

‍

Zenmuse P1 Camera

45 MP Full-Frame Sensor: Captures ultra-high-resolution images with a global mechanical shutter (1/2000 s) to avoid motion blur, essential for detailed photogrammetry.
Smart Oblique Capture: Enables multi-angle image acquisition with interchangeable fixed-focus lenses (24, 35, 50 mm), improving 3D model accuracy and completeness.
High Efficiency: Covers up to 3 km² per flight with a ground sampling distance (GSD) of 5 cm, significantly speeding up data collection for large mining areas.
TimeSync 2.0: Synchronizes camera, flight controller, RTK module, and gimbal at the microsecond level, ensuring precise time-stamped data for accurate mapping.

‍

Mining Industry Applications

Topographic and Volumetric Surveys
Generate accurate 2D orthomosaics, digital surface models (DSM), and 3D point clouds to measure stockpile volumes, excavation progress, and terrain changes with centimeter-level precision.
Open Pit and Quarry Mapping
Efficiently survey complex pit walls and quarry floors using Smart Oblique Capture to create detailed 3D models for safety assessments and planning.
Site Monitoring and Change Detection
Conduct regular aerial surveys to monitor site development, detect slope movements or erosion, and support environmental compliance.
Inventory and Logistics Management
Accurate stockpile measurements improve inventory oversight, enabling better supply chain planning and reducing material loss or write-offs.
Integration with DJI Terra and Third-Party Software
Process collected data into deliverables such as orthomosaics, DSMs, and 3D models in DJI Terra, then export to GIS or CAD platforms for further analysis and decision-making.

‍

Summary

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK with Zenmuse P1 is a powerful, reliable aerial surveying and mapping solution that elevates mining operations through precise, efficient, and comprehensive data collection. Its combination of long flight endurance, rugged design, and ultra-high-resolution photogrammetry enables mining professionals to perform accurate volumetric measurements, site monitoring, and topographic mapping faster and safer than traditional methods. Integrated with DJI Terra and compatible with industry-standard software, this solution streamlines workflows and supports data-driven decision-making critical to modern mining management.

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Hight Precision D-RTK 3 Multifunction Station

The D-RTK 3 Multifunctional Station can serve as a base station to provide centimeter-level positioning for multiple drones simultaneously or extend the operational range of drones in relay station mode. Additionally, the new Rover Station Mode, combined with the DJI Enterprise app and DJI Terra, provides a comprehensive solution for high-precision aerial surveying applications, ensuring a secure and accurate operation.

View RTK Equipment

Hight Precision D-RTK 2 GNSS Mobile Station

The D-RTK 2 is a rugged, portable GNSS base station that delivers centimeter-level positioning accuracy for DJI Agriculture Drones, supporting all major satellite systems and enabling multi-drone operations for precise mapping, surveying, and inspection.

View RTK Equipment