In a groundbreaking advancement for the construction and engineering sectors, researchers from the Politecnico di Milano have unveiled a prototype of a 360° borescope designed specifically for digital documentation in extremely confined spaces. This innovative tool addresses a significant gap in the market where traditional methods, such as laser scanning and conventional photogrammetry, often fall short due to space constraints.
The new system, which integrates a panoramic camera with an adjustable LED lighting system, allows for efficient image acquisition in areas as tight as 30–40 centimeters. This capability opens up a world of possibilities for industries that require detailed inspections and documentation in hard-to-reach locations, such as industrial facilities, historical sites, and even urban infrastructure.
Lead author L. Barazzetti, from the Department of Architecture, Built Environment and Construction Engineering at Politecnico di Milano, emphasized the importance of this development. “Our prototype not only achieves a metric precision of approximately ±1–2 cm but also enables high-resolution imaging and the generation of 3D models with minimal intervention,” Barazzetti stated. This precision is critical for sectors that demand accuracy, such as construction and heritage preservation.
The commercial implications of this technology are profound. In an industry where safety and compliance are paramount, the ability to conduct thorough inspections without the need for extensive dismantling or invasive methods can save both time and resources. Companies can now monitor the condition of their assets more effectively, potentially preventing costly repairs or safety hazards down the line. Moreover, heritage conservationists can document and analyze historical structures without compromising their integrity, preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
As the construction sector increasingly embraces digital tools and methodologies, this 360° borescope could serve as a catalyst for further innovations in confined-space documentation. With the trend towards smart buildings and infrastructure, the demand for precise and efficient inspection tools is expected to grow. Barazzetti’s research not only provides a solution for current challenges but also sets the stage for future advancements in photogrammetry and spatial analysis.
This research was published in “The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences,” a journal dedicated to exploring developments in these fields. For more information on the work of L. Barazzetti and his team, visit their profile at Politecnico di Milano.