Autonomous Drone Building Inspection
Dixon Mill Masonry Investigation
An autonomous drone–based inspection program was utilized to evaluate building façade and roof conditions across multiple markets, including New York, NY; Jersey City, NJ; Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; and Houston, TX.
The initiative combined field investigation with advanced image analysis to improve the efficiency and reliability of building condition assessments. During coursework at Columbia University, John O’Rourke developed a computer vision algorithm parallel to streamline the image review process, significantly accelerating the identification of façade and structural issues.
Field applications of the program included detailed investigations such as a brick façade assessment at the Dixon Mills Condominiums a historic property formerly operated as the Dixon Mills–Ticonderoga pencil manufacturing plant in Jersey City, NJ.
The work reflects an integrated approach to leveraging emerging technologies to enhance traditional structural inspection and forensic engineering practices.