Klapa, P. and Mitka, B. (2026) UAV data for BIM-based building assessment across construction stages: Sensor utility evaluation. Building Research & Information, 54(5), pp. 552-572. ISSN 0961-3218
Abstract
Geospatial data collection and processing with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is growing increasingly relevant to 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM) on various levels of representation of architectural details (LOD) and levels of information (LOI). This study compares the utility of data from UAVs as a comprehensive source of BIM input with three different sensors: an L1 scanner (LiDAR), a P1 camera, and a PSDK multi-lens camera. The authors assessed the completeness and accuracy of the UAV data for each building in relation to their characteristics and required information. The results demonstrate a high level of utility of point clouds and photogrammetric images in 3D BIM and reveal limitations inherent to sensor specifications and differences. For example, the L1 scanner offers high accuracy of geometric data, while the P1 and PSDK cameras better capture non-geometric data, such as material, texture, and colour, enriching BIM models. UAVs deliver comprehensive data and are simple and quick to use, which is a critical advantage for efficient modelling even in complex topography. Despite some limitations, the study confirms UAVs' significant potential to advance BIM development and precision across various stages of the building life cycle.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | 3D modelling; geospatial data; lod; point cloud; remote-sensing data; UAV-based photogrammetry |
| Index terms: | modelling, topography, accuracy, point cloud, unmanned aerial vehicle, building life cycle, construction stages, building information modelling, specification, 3D modelling, building assessment |
| Subjects: | information systems, automation and robotics, computational design, professional development, analytical methods, asset management, digital design, project delivery, contractual condition, physical geography and landforms |
| Topics: | Contract Administration, Business Strategy, Engineering Principles, Project Management, Digital Applications, Geographical Context, Information Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 2 PC |
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