Reja, V. K.; Yin, M.; Davletshina, D.; Wei, R.; Fauth, J.; Perrotta, F. and Brilakis, I. (2026) Establishing and fulfilling information requirements for computer vision-enabled digital twin-based control of roadside vegetation. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 152(9): 04026147, ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
Unattended roadside vegetation presents a notable hazard to road safety, frequently contributing to traffic accidents by blocking drivers' sightlines and reducing visibility. This research investigates current strategies for managing roadside vegetation, evaluates their shortcomings, establishes technology-Agnostic information requirements for effective vegetation control, and introduces two solutions based on computer vision-enabled digital twin technology to fulfill these requirements. The research employs a mixed-method approach, including expert interviews and a literature review, to analyze existing vegetation control processes and their shortcomings. It then defines the information requirements for digital twin implementation and proposes two computer vision-based solutions: A video-based two-dimensional (2D) approach and a mobile mapping-based three-dimensional (3D) approach. These solutions were tested through real-world case studies to validate their effectiveness in fulfilling the key requirements. The 2D approach, while affordable, provides basic assessments. In contrast, the 3D approach offers comprehensive spatial details and superior data quality for detailed analysis.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Index terms: | interview, digital twin, literature review, strategy, case study, effectiveness, implementation, computer vision, mapping |
| Subjects: | contractual arrangements, management, performance management, spatial and geospatial analysis, digital engineering, data collection methods, data analysis and analytics, computer vision |
| Topics: | Procurement, Business Strategy, Research Practice, Digital Applications, Quality Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCEA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here