Empathy In Point Clouds 

Visualization Work Selection Done in an Academic Research Group
Multidisciplinary Research Group Lead by Professor Dawn Gilpin and Professor Robert Adams
2023. Jan - Present

Empathy in Point-Clouds (EIPC) is a faculty-student research group that aims to redefine the parameters for creating radically accessible and inclusive architecture. Our focus spans from physical buildings and environments to digital infrastructure and urban technologies. The EIPC team leverages the 3D gaming platform, Unreal Engine, to develop project-based workflows. We create point-clouds using LiDAR scanners, Photogrammetry models using Reality Capture, live performance motion-capture animation, and immersive technologies. Our goal is to embed empathy within the design process.

We utilize the University of Michigan (UM) campus, faculty-designed architecture, and collaborate with institutions like The Cosanti Foundation to prototype, test, and validate complex design methodologies. These methodologies are essential for navigating equally complex and imaginative world-building processes.

I serve as the research assistant and the point person for VFX development, website construction, and data visualization within the group. Additionally, I produced the presentation video for EIPC's participation in the 2023 Taubman College TV Lab Trade Show. I have been involved in on-site scanning for various projects, including St. Mary Chapel, the University of Michigan Aerospace Engineering Wind Tunnel, Rackham Green Amphitheater, and more.

St. Mary Chapel was designed by PLY+, whose founder, Craig Borum, is a faculty member at Taubman College. This project represents the most detailed LiDAR scanning endeavor undertaken by EIPC. Our team visited the site in both winter 2022 and summer 2023 to conduct on-site LiDAR scanning, resulting in a total of 54 individual scans.

During this project, I experimented with various workflows to address inaccuracies in the LiDAR point cloud data caused by the presence of numerous windows. Another challenge involved seamlessly connecting the exterior and interior scans with high precision. Ultimately, we developed a comprehensive file package and shared all the data with PLY+. Our dataset includes raw FLS scans, organized Recap files, visual representations in Faro Scene, LAS and PTS data, as well as diagrams illustrating the scans and scanner placement.

Our practical workflow facilitated a holistic understanding, encompassing both the exterior and interior aspects of the chapel. This compilation serves as a bridge between architectural vision, the physicality of the chapel, and user interactions. One potential outcome of our research is immersive architectural exploration, achieved by integrating LiDAR with VR and AR technologies. This approach offers users an enhanced understanding of the chapel beyond traditional means.

Project Leads: Dawn Gilpin, Robert Adams
Visualization, Registeration: Qilmeg Doudatcz
Scanning: Qilmeg Doudatcz, Mardy Hillengas, Dylan Ling, Lili Omilian, Edward Rapa