Methods of photogrammetry for damage assessment and monitoring  

Main achievements:

·          Define a test project for the development of real-time data processing methods: Kobe City (aerial images before and after the Kobe earthquake are already available).

·          Generate with CyberCity Modeller semi-automatically a 3D city model before the earthquake.

·          Develop fully automated object extraction methods to generate a 3D city model after the earthquake in quasi real-time. Use digital images and, if possible, laserscan data as well.

·          Develop algorithms to compare before/after and to locate areas and amount of damage and obstructions.

·          Establish a concept and methodology for the automated processing of terrestrial images taken from a Mobile Mapping platform.

Added value to the research field and society:

·          We represent a novel methodology for automated and fast data acquisition. We can optimize our methods only if we understand the detailed requirements of the users. Therefore it is crucial to have a close link to the other WPs, who will make use of our results.

·          Availability of methods for real-time generation of earthquake damage assessment. Transfer this information to rescue teams.

·          Transfer the developed methodology and software to other applications of natural hazard damage monitoring and analysis (flooding, storm damage, landslides, glacier movement, etc.).

·          Support of Swiss manufacturers of high resolution digital aerial cameras and laserscanners (e.g. Leica Geosystems, Heerbrugg) by demonstrating innovative and successful new applications.