Applications of UAVs and AI in Civil Engineering: A Systematic Review of Current Uses and Future Directions in Road Construction

Abstract

This review paper explores the combined use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and artificial intelligence (AI), particularly focusing on the you only look once (YOLO) algorithm in construction. It explores the current use of these technologies in construction and proposes future use in road construction. Through a systematic review of recent studies, this paper highlights how these technologies are applied in various aspects of construction, such as real-time progress monitoring, pavement distress (PD) detection, and safety inspections. While UAVs and AI are proving valuable in current applications, there are still areas that require further exploration, including automated volume calculation and comprehensive inspection of roads. The findings suggest that integrating UAVs with AI can significantly enhance construction task's speed, accuracy, and automation, particularly in road projects. The integration of UAVs and AI is still an early concept in some aspects of road construction, so the paper also explores potential future applications. By exploring and addressing these gaps, this review hopes to inspire a more efficient and cost-effective future in the construction industry.