WPI Drone Photogrammetry (Approval Pending)

This drone photogrammetry project aims to create a high-resolution, 3D map of the WPI campus using UAV imaging and modern reconstruction techniques. By capturing precise aerial imagery and processing it into an accurate digital model, the project will produce an open and versatile asset that can support institutional planning, accessibility improvements, research applications, and creative student initiatives. In addition to contributing a valuable resource to WPI, the team is also personally motivated to use the final dataset as the foundation for an interactive racing game set on campus-merging engineering, geospatial science, and entertainment into a unified project with both practical and innovative outcomes.

The potential outcomes of the drone photogrammetry project extend well beyond producing a visually impressive model. A precise 3D reconstruction of WPI’s campus can serve as a critical asset for future research in autonomy, urban planning, and virtual simulation. Campus organizations could use it for accessibility route mapping, event planning, infrastructure studies, or enhanced campus navigation. Academic departments could leverage the data for coursework and experiments in robotics, civil engineering, and computer science. Additionally, the model opens the door to innovative outreach opportunities, such as immersive virtual tours for prospective students or interactive gaming and VR experiences developed by the student community. This project lays the foundation for a digital twin of WPI; an evolving, reusable resource that can grow alongside the institution and its students.