Accuracy and utility of the Structure Sensor for collecting 3D indoor information

Abstract

This paper presents the result of an investigation into the utility of the Structure Sensor developed by Occipital Inc. and accuracy of its output for 3D surveying of interiors of buildings in relation to Surveying (Cadastral Survey) Regulation 2005 in Victoria, Australia. The paper investigates data acquisition issues, defines guidelines to obtain the best reconstruction result, and evaluates the result against the requirements set by the Regulation. The findings suggest a mixed result. The sensor delivers more accurate outputs for the smaller room sizes. Also, the accuracy does not meet the requirements, but it was found to be close to what is expected in the Regulation. Finally, the paper argues that the device is user-friendly enough to be used by non-experts for crowdsourcing indoor information and, the accuracy of its output can meet the needs of other domains such as indoor navigation and public safety.

Keywords:

• 3D
• indoor information
• VGI (volunteered geographic information)
• crowdsourcing
• Structure Sensor
• Occipital
• surveying and mapping
• Australia

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to acknowledge the members of the Centre for Spatial Data Infrastructures and Land Administration at the University of Melbourne, in the preparation of this article and the associated research. However, the views expressed in the article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of these groups.