In this episode of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast, Nick interviews John Ehrlich, COO of T2D2, an AI-driven asset inspection software company. They discuss how drones and artificial intelligence are transforming building and façade inspections—especially in aging infrastructure and dense urban areas—by enabling faster, more cost-effective, and comprehensive assessments. Drones capture visual data once only possible through expensive scaffolding or rope access, but they have limitations in tactile inspection and urban navigation.
To overcome these, John advocates for a hybrid approach that combines drone data with human expertise. AI can automatically detect over 50 types of façade damage using computer vision, but its value depends on smart integration into engineering workflows. Tools like photogrammetry and orthomosaics convert drone imagery into detailed 2D and 3D models, improving visualization and defect localization.
While AI helps contextualize defects and reduce the need for site revisits, it lacks the ability to interpret structural context or root causes—roles best left to engineers. Emerging tech like infrared imaging and GPR further enhances inspections. With rapid advances in drone autonomy and AI capabilities, including language models, the future lies in a seamless blend of technology and human judgment. Certification and workflow alignment are key for adoption.
