EERI New York – Northeast Regional Chapter hosts special FEMA-supported Lecture from Dr. Robert Kayen on Structure-from-Motion & LiDAR: Computational Imaging Tools for Engineers

On May 16^th, 2019, the EERI New York—Northeast (NYNE) Regional Chapter hosted in Manhattan a special, FEMA-supported lecture presented by Dr. Robert Kayen, Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of California at Berkeley and Senior Research Scientist and Civil Engineer at the Pacific Science Center of the USGS. The talk on “Structure-from-Motion & LIDAR: Computational Imaging Tools for Engineers “highlighted recent advances in computational imaging tools and application examples of these technologies in reconnaissance missions and studies of the NSF-funded GEER association. These imaging tools, such as LiDAR, SfM (Structure from Motion), UAVs help engineers model and understand complex structural and geological geometries and deformations.

The event was well-attended by more than 30 participants, including representation by the New York City (NYC) Department of Buildings, NYC Transit, NYC Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Transit Authority, college students and professionals from private firms. A lively discussion with the audience followed, with insightful questions about the new imaging technologies and experiences using them in LFE and GEER reconnaissance missions. During the event, the NYNE Chapter welcomed 5 new members**.

The NYNE Chapter was supported through an EERI and FEMA Grant to align chapters with EERI national activities and to offer support for new and additional local events for earthquake mitigation and risk reduction. The Chapter also extends its appreciation to the outreach partners ACECNY, SEAoNY, ASCE Metropolitan Section, and the host WSP, an EERI Silver subscribing member.

For more information about the NYNE Chapter and activities, please email nyne@eeri.org or visit: http://nyne.eeri.org/