Synergistic 3D Building Modeling: UAV and Laser Scanning Combination

Three-dimensional (3D) buildings can be used in many applications, such as assisting visualisations, better interpretation, supplementing maps, developing virtual environments and many others. This 3D model can imitate realistic impacts, aid users in visualising the models better, and help facilitate their preferences. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are frequently employed to gather data from both two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) objects. In contrast, Terrestrial Laser Scanners (TLS) are specifically utilised for the acquisition of three-dimensional (3D) data. Hence, combining these two tools enables the production of more accurate data. The primary objectives of this study encompass two key aspects. Firstly, it seeks to seamlessly integrate data obtained from both aerial surveys and ground surveys by effectively merging their respective point clouds, ultimately culminating in the creation of a comprehensive and intricate 3D model. Secondly, the study aims to rigorously assess and gauge the outcomes of this fusion process, meticulously evaluating the precision and accuracy of the combined data. Pix4D software was utilised for processing the aerial data, and Scanmaster software was used to process ground data. The two point clouds were then converted into the same coordinate system, and the Cloud Compare software was used to align the identical points in both clouds. The study's results were demonstrated using orthophotos, point clouds, and 3D models depicting the building. To validate precision, a dimensional survey was carried out, entailing the measurement of distances from man-made features within the study area. Additionally, the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) method was applied to quantify the discrepancies between the dimension survey and the combined data. The building was represented as a 3D model, attaining centimetre-level accuracy based on the precision of the point cloud. In the end, integrating data from both UAV and TLS sources enabled the development of an all-encompassing 3D model for the UTM T05 building.