A 360-degree imagery-multisensor system for visualizing environmental parameters in architecture and urban spaces

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Architecture
• Urban Planning
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Existing tools lack simultaneous 360-degree capture of diverse environmental data.
• There is a need for integrated data collection in architectural and urban design.
• Current methods for environmental parameter monitoring are often limited in scope and visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a 360-degree imagery-multisensor system for comprehensive environmental data capture.
• To enable simultaneous recording of visual and non-visual environmental parameters.
• To provide a cost-effective and customizable tool for architectural and urban design education and practice.

Main Methods:

• Development of a 360-degree system integrating panoramic high dynamic range imagery and sensor arrays.
• Utilization of Raspberry Pi computers and 3D printing for system construction.
• Implementation of custom Python scripts for real-time data acquisition, processing, and visualization.
• Inclusion of sensors for illuminance, spectral power distribution, thermal conditions, air quality, and sound levels.

Main Results:

• Successful simultaneous capture of 360-degree imagery and multisensor environmental data (lighting, thermal, air quality, sound).
• Demonstration of a cost-effective, programmable, and customizable system.
• Integration of diverse data streams for comprehensive environmental analysis.
• The system provides a foundation for immersive virtual and augmented reality applications.

Conclusions:

• The developed 360-degree imagery-multisensor system offers a novel approach to environmental data capture in architecture and urban spaces.
• This innovation facilitates enhanced design exploration, education, and the development of immersive applications.
• The system's versatility and cost-effectiveness make it valuable for students, educators, and building engineers.