Robert Stepnoski

Senior Lecturer

Robert Stepnoski is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, where he has taught since 2009.

Stepnoski's current research focuses on the use of UAVs for mapping and modeling paired with Information Technologies for analysis and site discovery. Specifically, using the UAV to generate Aerial Photography and Video Capture of a site at varying altitudes. During each flight, data is collected to produce 3D Point Clouds, Digital Surface Models (accurate, geo-referenced elevation maps, ready for ArcGIS, Revit, and Civil 3D workflows), Orthomosaic, (high resolute aerial map with corrected perspective), Contour Lines, (generate real-time contour lines from captured topography), and 3D Textured Models which are perfect for VR and full color 3D printing.

Research into the use of the UAVs to aid first responders and simultaneously map an evolving flood plain is a continued area of interest for Rob. The ability of a UAV to enter an area affected by a disaster, which a first responder should not be in, is intriguing.

Virtual and Augmented Reality is yet another aspect of Rob’s research. The process of translating Building Information Models into the Virtual Information Modeling environment provides the opportunity to experience the model virtually and reveal the depth of information embedded in that model. Virtual Information Modeling is the immersive experience of Building Information Models within the Gear VR headset. The VIM can also be viewed using a desktop viewer or touchscreen. VIM technology takes full advantage of the "meta data" you enter into your Revit model. Rob’s pursuit is to further explore the depths of BIM/VIM.

EDUCATION

  • Boston Architectural Center; College of Architecture
  • College of Technology at Alfred; State University of New York

PUBLICATIONS + PROJECTS

PUBLICATIONS

“Scan, Immerse & Experience: VR Enabled Field Study.” Journal of Digital Landscape Architecture. Journal of Digital Landscape Architecture, 7-2022. Wichmann Verlag, VDE VERLAG GMBH · Berlin · Offenbach.2020

“Digital Landscape Architecture's Extended Reality”. Platform (Fall 2022), "Teaching for Next", School of Architecture, University of Texas at Austin

Paper: "A Point Cloud Pedagogy", Accepted for AMPS Book Publication. Kent School of Architecture and Planning. Canterbury, UK. Spring/Summer 2022. Publication pending.Video Submission: A Point Cloud Pedagogy
 

PROJECTS

Camp Round Meadow. 3D Laser Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model. Collaboration: ARC386M Graphic Documentation Historic Buildings Survey and Drawings

French Legation State Historic Site: 3D Laser Scan, Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR, Documentation.

UT East Mall: 3D Laser Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model, #theartofthepointcloud.

Combined Transportation, Emergency & Communications Center: 3D Laser Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model, Digital Twin, Documentation.

Large City Architecture Research: 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR, Documentation.

Littlefield Carriage House: 3D Laser Scan, Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR, Documentation.

Zilker Botanical Garden: 3D Laser Scan, Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR, Documentation.

Flume: Laser Scan, Photogrammetry, Bergstrom Airport Installation, 3D Point Cloud Model, Documentation, 2021

Honors Quad Courtyard: Scan, Teach, Immerse. 3D Point Cloud Model, Unity3D Immersive Model, 2021

Living Wall: Laser Scan, Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR. Documentation, 2021

AntheneumMural: Laser Scan, Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR. Documentation, Proof of Concept, 2021

Architectural Library, Reading Room: Laser Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR. Documentation, 2021

El Paso Studio: 3D Point Cloud Model, Unity3D Immersive Model, 2021

Rob Stepnoski
Contact

Office:  SUT 1.120

AREAS OF INTEREST
  • UAV Flight
  • Aerial & Terrestrial Photogrammetry
  • Scanning (LiDAR)
  • Rendering
  • VR/AR
  • Architecture

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