BIM and 360-Degree Camera Data Registration Using Fiducial Markers

With rapid advances in computer vision and visual sensing, there were more and more uses of 360° cameras on construction sites for as-built documentation. Visualization of as-built visual data with as-planned building information models (BIM) can help better manage projects. Accurate alignment of the two remains a persistent challenge in construction workflows. This study introduces a novel framework that integrates 360° cameras, visual simultaneous localization and mapping (Visual SLAM), and fiducial markers to automate and enhance the accuracy of alignment processes. The framework uses strategically placed fiducial markers with pre-measured BIM coordinates as reliable anchors for computing a transformation matrix, aligning SLAM-generated outputs with BIM-defined coordinates. Experimental results validate the framework’s effectiveness through a case study. This approach advances the integration of as-built and BIM data, offering a scalable, robust solution for construction progress monitoring, inspection, visualization, and decision making.