Drone Inspection & Digital Twin – Commercial Building
High Exposure was engaged to undertake a significant project to create a high-resolution aerial photogrammetry 3D model for a thorough inspection of brickwork on the
The Use of Drones in Architecture Projects
The ongoing technological advancements in Architecture are undeniable. From sophisticated design software to electronic utilities and applications, Architecture is evolving into one of the most technologically adept professions globally. The integration of specific software has greatly simplified the process of mapping geographies. Thanks to Geographic Information Systems (GIS), site mapping and analysis have become more accessible than ever, with the use of Aerial Drones being a key factor in this simplicity. A noteworthy feature of utilising drones lies in their capability to capture challenging images. Drones entered the public domain in 2006 and have since become a pivotal tool in the field of architecture. Architects predominantly employ drones to capture compelling photographic perspectives and to visualise their projects from unique angles. Throughout the entire construction phase, drones prove to be valuable, documenting on-site progress through visual evidence and contributing to comprehensive project mapping.
ABOUT architectural surveys
Data Driven Insights
Utilising various sensors, a drone is able to collect enormous amounts of accurate data of natural areas quickly and accurately. Laser scanning, photogrammetry, as well as high resolution 360° panoramas can provide an aerial perspective of the built and natural environment.
Drones in architecture enhances the overall workflow by providing accurate, timely, and cost-effective data. It empowers architects with valuable insights, improves decision-making processes, and contributes to the successful execution of architectural projects.
What we do
Architectural Services
Mapping of an area can be undertaken quickly and efficiently to produce results with fast turnarounds. Highly accurate 3D point clouds are available for as built 3D surveys to use in AutoCAD and BIM software
Before new buildings have been constructed it is useful to understand what the view will look like from a particular floor or apartment when looking out the window.
Specific GPS coordinates, compass bearings and heights are used to capture the correct imagery.
There are a few options for deliverables ranging from;
- single images facing a specific direction
- 180° panoramas
- 360° spherical panorama’s
- VR Tours (spherical pano’s tours)
- 3D Models
High resolution models and dense colourised point coilds can be generated using LiDAR and photogrammetry processes. This provides a high level understanding of the terrain or vegetation
3D Point Cloud of Newcastle Station
Scope
Extensions were being planned for the Old Newcastle Station, although due to the age of the building there weren’t any historical plans. A 3D pointcloud was required internally and externally of the entire site to assist architects and engineers with designs. An absolute accuracy of +-50mm was required.
- RTK remotely piloted aircraft with a high resolution aerial sensor was used to complete a carefully planned photogrammetry mission
- Ground Control Points were laid prior to assist with improving absolute accuracy
- BLK 360 terrestrial scanner was utilised to scan the inside of the buildings as well as externally to assist with areas under awnings and in tight spaces
Deliverables
The client was able to import the pointcloud file into their GIS program to assist with accurate designs for the new plans. The new designs were created based off the scans allowing an accurate representation of how the new structures would be accommodated into the existing buildings
- The aerial and terrestrial scans were processed with a dense pointcloud generated
- The pointclouds were georeferenced to GDA2020 and AHD, cleaned and then merged together to produce a single pointcloud
- An .xyz and e57 file was provided
- An additional decimated pointcloud was provided for easier manipulation on less powerful computers
- A 3D mesh deliverable in .obj and 3D tiles was provided and uploaded to a 3D hosting platform to allow additional capabilities to assist with the design
360 Spherical Panorama
Scope
Understand the view from a particular GPS point, direction and height of an apartment that has not been built yet. These can be used for marketing an apartment before construction as well as allowing a price based on what type of view can be seen of the city, harbour etc
Deliverables
- High resolution 360° spherical panorama file
- 360° VR Tour hosted online with capability to annotate hotspots
Update
Our Projects
Drone Survey & Laser Scan – Newcastle Station
High Exposure, a leading provider of aerial surveying and photogrammetry solutions, was contracted to undertake a comprehensive survey of the Old Newcastle Station. The council
Roof Inspection & 3D Model of Large Warehouse- Smithfield, Sydney
High Exposure was enlisted to conduct a comprehensive roof inspection for a 20,000m² warehouse as part of a due diligence process before the property’s purchase.