Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery

For those unfamiliar, aerial photogrammetry is a technique that uses science and technology to create precise 3D models. Initially using aircraft, and currently more commonly using drones, it captures high-resolution images of a desired surface and reconstructs them into 3D elements. By capturing high-resolution visual data, it offers a range of benefits to the construction sector, including optimized cost control.

How does aerial photogrammetry contribute to cost control?

By generating detailed 3D models of existing surfaces, aerial photogrammetry allows for more precise project planning, minimizing errors and rework. This significantly reduces material and labor costs.

Another important factor is the comparison of 3D models generated at different stages of the project, which allows for the rapid identification of deviations from the original design, such as execution problems, conflicts between different processes, or material shortages. This early detection enables timely corrective measures, avoiding additional costs for repairs and delays in delivery.

It also allows for the optimization of construction logistics, precisely calculating distances and work areas, resulting in cost reductions in various areas, from transportation to material storage. Materials and equipment can be allocated closer to work areas more efficiently.

By monitoring the physical progress of the work, aerial photogrammetry allows for more precise control of material consumption, preventing waste and shortages.

The generation of a complete mapping of the work, from start to finish, is essential for contract management and the resolution of potential disputes through the detailed documentation generated.

Measuring areas and volumes through aerial photogrammetry can automate many tasks that were previously done manually, increasing productivity and reducing labor costs.

Finally, the identification of potential risks, such as ground instability or third-party interference, allows for preventive measures to be taken, avoiding high costs for repairs and indemnities.

A critical factor for the success of this model is the use of appropriate equipment capable of generating this information accurately. Issues such as the drone's flight autonomy, the equipment's ability to generate high-resolution images, and the software chosen to integrate the generated images, calculations, and results must be considered.

Other advantages of aerial photogrammetry:

• Monitoring construction progress with the 3D surface surveyed in the field
• Assistance with volumetric and metric conversions
• Just-in-Time precise information

To obtain even more accurate and complete results, aerial photogrammetry can be combined with other technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and artificial intelligence.

Photo by Josh Sorenson

Integration of BIM and Aerial photogrammetry

The integration of BIM (Building Information Modeling) and aerial photogrammetry offers a powerful synergy to optimize cost control in construction projects. By combining BIM's ability to model detailed building information with aerial photogrammetry's precision in capturing visual data from reality, it is possible to achieve an unprecedented level of detail and accuracy.

How does this integration work in practice? The data captured by aerial photogrammetry can be combined with BIM, providing it with accurate visual information of the construction site in real time. This allows for a comparison between the planned project and the executed one, facilitating the identification of deviations and more accurate decision-making. Additionally, based on BIM models updated with aerial photogrammetry data, more accurate quantities can be generated, as previously described, avoiding oversizing or shortages. Another advantage BIM allows is simulating different scenarios in the project, such as adding or removing elements. By combining this capability with aerial photogrammetry data, it is possible to evaluate the impact of different decisions on the final cost of the project, creating more efficient solutions.

As mentioned earlier, the integration between BIM and aerial photogrammetry allows for the identification and assessment of risks with greater precision, such as geotechnical problems or third-party interference, avoiding additional costs for repairs and delays in the project. Additionally, it allows for the precise measurement of the physical progress of the work and the resolution of potential conflicts.

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Practical example:

Imagine a building construction project. Through aerial photogrammetry, it is possible to generate a precise 3D model of the terrain and existing structures. With this, we can use this model to be imported into BIM, allowing for the creation of a detailed model of the designed building. During construction, new photogrammetric captures are performed, updating the BIM model and allowing the identification of any deviation from the original project. If it is necessary to make any changes to the project, BIM allows for the simulation of different options and the evaluation of the impact on the final cost of the project.

The combination of aerial photogrammetry and BIM can greatly assist in cost control, with a level of detail that would not be possible to achieve manually, in addition to being much more accurate and generating results much faster. In the long term, this will have a significant impact on the project outcome.