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
Book Chapter: "A Point Cloud Pedagogy", AMPS Book Publication. Kent School of Architecture and Planning. Canterbury, UK. 2023. Publication.
“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. Video Submission: A Point Cloud Pedagogy
PROJECTS
Zilker Clubhouse: LiDAR Scan, VR Model/Walkthrough, Documentation, UAV Flight, Aerial/Terrestrial Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model
Elisabet Ney Museum: LiDAR Scan, VR Model/Walkthrough, Documentation, UAV Flight, Aerial/Terrestrial Photogrammetry, 3D Point Cloud Model
City of Austin; Combined Transportation, Emergency & Communications Center: LiDAR Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model. Documentation.
VR American A-Frame Exhibition: VR Model & Documentation.
Camp Round Meadow: LiDAR Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model. Documentation.
VR Large City Architecture Research Exhibition: VR Model & Documentation.
French Legation State Historic Site: LiDAR Scan, Aerial & Terrestrial Photogrammetry. Documentation.
LBJ Fountain & Field: LiDAR Scan, Aerial & Terrestrial Photogrammetry. Documentation.
Pennybacker Bridge: UAV Flight. Aerial Photogrammetry. Documentation.
UT East Mall: LiDAR Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model. Documentation.
UTSOA Battle Hall: LiDAR Scan, 3D Point Cloud Model. Documentation.
Coconut Club & Neon Grotto: VR Walkthrough. 3D Point Cloud Model. Documentation.
Oilcan Harry's: VR Walkthrough. 3D Point Cloud Model. Documentation.
Courtyard: Scan, Teach, Immerse. 3D Point Cloud Model, Unity3D Immersive Model.
Living Wall: 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR. Documentation .
2021Antheneum: 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR. Documentation. Proof of Concept.
Architectural Library, Reading Room: 3D Point Cloud Model, Interactive VR. Documentation.
El Paso Studio: 3D Point Cloud Model, Unity3D Immersive Model.
