METHOD OF DETERMINING STRUCTURAL DAMAGE USING POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE TREE PROXIMITY FACTORS

摘要

Described are computer-implemented methods for determining damage to one or more structures by trees or by one or more weather effects. The method may comprise calculating a Tree Proximity Score for one or more sets of geospatial coordinates from weather-related damage data and tree characteristic information using a computer processor. The tree characteristic information may be from a geographic area encompassing each of the sets of geospatial coordinates, and the sets of geospatial coordinates may comprise geographic locations of a plurality of structures. The tree characteristic information may comprise one or more categories based on the presence of tall or medium-height trees within one or more parcels surrounding the sets of geospatial coordinates. Uses for the Tree Proximity Score may be in the insurance industry in insurance policy implementation and underwriting or in the home-buying process as a factor for quantifying whether a particular property is safe.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
identifying a target structure; obtaining one or more digital images of the target structure within a selected geographical radius using one or more satellite or aerial imaging apparatus; identifying a number of one or more trees within the selected geographical radius from one or more signals represented in the one or more digital images; determining from the signal, proximity of the trees to the target structure; converting intensity of the signal into height of the trees; identifying type and frequency of weather conditions for a geographic area in which the target structure is physically located; due to the number, proximity, and height of the trees, determining if the trees are a structural hazard to or provide protection for the target structure for the weather conditions of that geographic area; and estimating likelihood of damage to the target structure based at least in part on whether the trees are a structural hazard to or provide protection for the target structure.