Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates (WJE) produced a new video documenting how drone technology can be used for building facade inspections.
Currently, nine major U.S. cities have adopted facade ordinances that require inspection of thousands of buildings every few years.
“We believe that drone usage will enable building owners to assess problems quicker and with less risk to the general public and workers,” WJE Principal Michael Petermann said. “This will become an essential tool in engineers’ and architects’ tool box.”
WJE partnered with First Flight Photography (FFP), an FAA-Section 330 vendor to produce the video that highlights how drones could be used to assess building exteriors safely and expediently. The companies worked together on the two structures highlighted in the video and have proposed on several other upcoming projects.
Having multi-angled video or still images enables engineers to see potential distressed conditions that could otherwise be missed from ground analysis. Petermann said that he hopes local governments permit the use of drones for building assessment.
WJE anticipates an increase in demand to perform visual inspections utilizing high quality imagery from drones and is in the process of partnering with select vendors.
Related Stories
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 16, 2015
Norman Foster proposes 'drone ports' as a way to ship goods across Africa
The structures would store cargo-shipping drones and serve as community centers.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 14, 2015
Is Apple's new iPad Pro a game changer for architects?
A stylus, split screen, and improved graphics make designing on the tablet easier.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 9, 2015
How is data changing the nature of design?
Advances in building information modeling allow for more thorough project documentation, but don't get lost in the white noise, writes Shepley Bulfinch’s Kyle Martin.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 7, 2015
The power of data: How AEC firms and owners are using analytics to transform design and construction
Case’s bldgs = data conference highlighted how collecting data about personal activities can inform design and extend the power of BIM/VDC.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 28, 2015
MIT researchers develop 3D printer that produces intricate glass structures
The machine uses molten glass as its “ink,” contained in a “kiln cartridge” that heats up at 1,900 degrees until it is molten and pliable.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 27, 2015
Zebra Imaging launches 3D hologram creator for Autodesk Revit
Company promises new product will bring "easy creation process" to holographic imaging in AEC community.
Office Buildings | Aug 24, 2015
British company OpenDesk offers open-sourced office furniture
Offices can “download” their furniture to be made locally, anywhere.
Energy Efficiency | Aug 24, 2015
Google develops Google Maps for solar energy
The tool offers high-resolution aerial maps, like the one used in Google Earth, to estimate the total sunlight a rooftop receives throughout the year.
Sponsored | BIM and Information Technology | Aug 20, 2015
Part II - Will BIM Work as a Deliverable? A Legal Perspective on BIM
Having the right counsel on your team can be the difference between long drawn-out negotiations and breaking new ground to meet the owner’s needs.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 17, 2015
Reimagined cursors can change digital imaging
A University of Montreal professor has developed a system that elevates 2D cursors for a 3D world.
