An automated framework to quantify exposure of informal urban settlements using UAV and Scan-to-BIM

Merma M.; Nuñez C.; Davila C.; Estrada M.; Regalado M.; Gonzalez R.; Requelme K.; Quesquen A. · Proceedings of the International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction (2026) · DOI: 10.22260/isarc2026/0234

Resumen

Rapid informal urban expansion in high-slope terrains presents a critical challenge for disaster risk management, particularly where foundational digital documentation is absent. This study proposes an automated framework for quantifying urban growth and geodynamic hazard exposure by integrating UAV photogrammetry with a Scan-to-BIM workflow. By processing high-resolution point clouds through noise reduction and normal vector calculation to segment horizontal roof planes, building footprints were extracted and converted into Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) models at a volumetric massing level using IfcOpenShell. Longitudinal analysis revealed a substantial rise in dwelling density across the study periods, with the total built-up area expanding significantly. Critically, spatial intersection with terrain models demonstrated that the most aggressive expansion occurred on the steepest slope categories, highlighting increased population exposure to rockslides according to national risk standards. While the study identifies limitations in detecting irregular geometries and unconventional materials, the proposed framework establishes a reproducible, interoperable BIM-GIS bridge that overcomes the temporal and spatial limitations of traditional monitoring in undocumented urban territories.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería