Work

Modelling LiDAR-Based Vegetation Geometry for Computational Fluid Dynamics Heat Transfer Models

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Vegetation characteristics significantly influence the impact of wildfires on individual building structures, and these effects can be systematically analyzed using heat transfer modelling software. Close-range light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data obtained from uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) capture detailed vegetation morphology; however, the integration of dense vegetation and merged canopies into three-dimensional (3D) models for fire modelling software poses significant challenges. This study proposes a method for integrating the UAS–LiDAR-derived geometric features of vegetation components—such as bark, wooden core, and foliage—into heat transfer models. The data were collected from the natural woodland surrounding an elevated building in Samford, Queensland, Australia. Aboveground biomass (AGB) was estimated for 21 trees utilizing three 3D tree reconstruction tools, with validation against biomass allometric equations (BAEs) derived from field measurements. The most accurate reconstruction tool produced a tree mesh utilized for modelling vegetation geometry. A proof of concept was established with Eucalyptus siderophloia, incorporating vegetation data into heat transfer models. This non-destructive framework leverages available technologies to create reliable 3D tree reconstructions of complex vegetation in wildland–urban interfaces (WUIs). It facilitates realistic wildfire risk assessments by providing accurate heat flux estimations, which are critical for evaluating building safety during fire events, while addressing the limitations associated with direct measurements.

Source: Remote Sensing

DOI: 10.3390/rs17030552

Authors: Pirunthan Keerthinathan, Megan Anschau, Thaniroshan Krishnakumar, Anthony Ariyanayagam, Grant Hamilton, Felipe Gonzalez

Institution: Queensland University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Remote Sensing and LiDAR Applications

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258