Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10953/2281
Title: Accuracy Assessment of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs): A Critical Review of Practices of the Past Three Decades
Authors: Mesa-Mingorance, José L.
Ariza-López, Francisco J.
Abstract: An analysis of almost 200 references has been carried out in order to obtain knowledge about the DEM (Digital Elevation Model) accuracy assessment methods applied in the last three decades. With regard to grid DEMs, 14 aspects related to the accuracy assessment processes have been analysed (DEM data source, data model, reference source for the evaluation, extension of the evaluation, applied models, etc.). In the references analysed, except in rare cases where an accuracy assessment standard has been followed, accuracy criteria and methods are usually established according to the premises established by the authors. Visual analyses and 3D analyses are few in number. The great majority of cases assess accuracy by means of point-type control elements, with the use of linear and surface elements very rare. Most cases still consider the normal model for errors (discrepancies), but analysis based on the data itself is making headway. Sample size and clear criteria for segmentation are still open issues. Almost 21% of cases analyse the accuracy in some derived parameter(s) or output, but no standardization exists for this purpose. Thus, there has been an improvement in accuracy assessment methods, but there are still many aspects that require the attention of researchers and professional associations or standardization bodies such as a common vocabulary, standardized assessment methods, methods for meta-quality assessment, and indices with an applied quality perspective, among others.
Keywords: DEM
assessment
quality
accuracy
quantitative analysis
standardized procedures
Issue Date: 2020
metadata.dc.description.sponsorship: This research was funded by Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades, grant number PID2019-106195RB-I00, which is partially funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Publisher: MDPI
Appears in Collections:DICGF-Artículos

Files in This Item:
File Description SizeFormat 
remotesensing-12-02630.pdf3,97 MBAdobe PDFView/Open


This item is protected by original copyright