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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: GR/S75642/01
Title: Rapid damage mapping to support post-disaster recovery
Principal Investigator: Spence, Professor R
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Infoterra Ltd Middle East Technical University Willis Corroon Inspace
Department: Architecture
Organisation: University of Cambridge
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 21 October 2003 Ends: 20 February 2005 Value (£): 59,152
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Structural Engineering
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Construction
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
The newly available high-resolution optical satellite images, such as IKONOS or Quick Bird, can show details such as individual buildings, cars and trees on the ground. The objective of this new study is to develop a rapid damage mapping methodology for post-earthquake building damage assessment using these high-resolution satellite images.Currently, post-earthquake building damage assessment is carried out by specialists on the ground. These surveys can take weeks to complete, and more time is necessary to compile a comprehensive damage assessment of the affected area. The newly developed methodology is envisaged to provide rapid damage mapping in a much shorter time.One of the main tasks involved in this new study is to experiment and develop semi-automated image processing techniques that can be used to detect damaged structures. In a previous project, computer-aided visual interpretation techniques using high-resolution satellite images were found to be useful for building damage assessment. The new semi-automated image processing techniques developed in this project are expected to enhance the capability to interpret damaged buildings. For the final deliverable, all of these techniques will be assessed and the best techniques will be put together to form the best methodology for post-earthquake building damage assessment using high-resolution optical satellite images.Case studies will be carried out on the earthquakes that occurred in Gujarat, (India), Molise, (Italy), Bingol, (Turkey) and Boumerdes, (Algeria) using high-resolution satellite images showing the built-up areas affected by the earthquakes. Field visits will be carried out to collect damage data which can be used to verify the results of thre analysis. The field visits will also enable the project team to establish a link with the organisations that are the potential user of this new methodology.
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Organisation Website: http://www.cam.ac.uk