A Space–Air–Earth–Water Sensor Network Used to Determine the Impact of Overexploitation of Water Resources (Ecuador)

Abstract

This study analyzes repercussions for the morphology, talweg, riverbanks and surrounding structures of several aquatic systems transformed by multipurpose reservoirs located within the Ecuadorian territory of South America. For this purpose, several geomatics techniques were used simultaneously, minimizing the temporal error in the reservoir water level in order to measure the impact of partial or total emptying operations on these reservoirs. High precision geodetic networks were designed to synchronously use geospatial data-capturing equipment, namely UASs/drones with INS/GNSS systems, LiDAR sensors, RGB optical sensors, USVs/aquatic drones equipped with GNSS systems, and single-beam sensors. Photogrammetric, LiDAR and underwater results were contrasted with topographic techniques used in the monitoring and control of structures. Environmental changes in the surroundings, soil movements due to sedimentary and erosive effects, and possible displacements in existing structures were analyzed.

Keywords

• UASs/USVs/drones
• hydrotechnical structures
• echo sounders
• LiDAR