3D Laser Scanning in Construction: Need to Know Everything
Is your construction project harnessing the power of cutting-edge technology, or are you still in the exploration phase? Regardless, delving into the realm of 3D building scanning holds immense value for every construction professional.
3D laser scanning services are designed to provide you with a comprehensive view of your building project. We use cutting-edge laser scanners to capture high-resolution images and detailed point clouds of your project site. This allows us to create accurate 3D models of your building, which can be used for a wide range of applications.
Let’s take a closer look at this burgeoning innovation.
Key Insights:
The demand for laser scanning is on the rise in the construction industry, expected to reach a staggering $10 billion by 2024.
Laser scanning, also known as high-definition surveying (HDS) or reality capture, involves using lasers to meticulously map an area with unparalleled precision.
The resultant data, referred to as a “point cloud,” establishes a database of interconnected points within a 3D coordinate system.
Although the technology has been available since the 1960s, its application in design and engineering only gained traction in the 1990s.
Laser scanning finds utility across various project phases, from design and construction to operations, retrofits, and renovations.
This technology significantly enhances quality and accuracy, furnishes immediate information to mitigate rework, and reduces costs by up to 50% compared to 2D scanning, while also streamlining collaboration on-site.
However, challenges include the initial expense, the need for specialized training, and the continued requirement for on-site workers to familiarize themselves with the environment.
Incorporating laser scanning into your project is feasible; early implementation, renting equipment or services to acquaint yourself with the process, and synergizing it with other technologies can provide a solid starting point.
Laser Scanning 101: The Fundamentals
Before delving into the specifics of laser scanning, it’s essential to understand the basics. Laser scanning, or high-definition surveying, entails using lasers to intricately map an area with exceptional accuracy.
On construction sites, laser scanning captures detailed data, generating a “point cloud” — a 3D coordinate system database offering precise information about every aspect of the site.
A Concise History of Laser Scanning in Construction
While 3D laser scanning has roots dating back to the 1960s, its application in design and engineering emerged in the 1990s. Similar to the trajectory of GPS adoption, laser scanning has transitioned from a luxury to a commonplace technology in various markets, including construction.
Applications of Construction Laser Scanning
Laser scanning has evolved beyond its original use in industrial facility maintenance. Its contemporary applications span the entire project lifecycle:
- Design: Laser scanning is a foundational step in site design, often preceding Building Information Modeling (BIM) to capture detailed information for effective project initiation and management.
- Construction: It proves invaluable in coordination, preventing conflicts between systems and facilitating remote collaboration. Scanning occurs at different project phases, documenting milestones and reducing the need for change orders.
- Operations, Retrofits, and Renovations: 3D building scanners create detailed records that benefit owners and facility managers in operations, renovations, and future construction endeavors.
Advantages of Laser Scanning in Construction
Implementing laser scanning in your projects yields numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Quality and Accuracy: Laser scanning elevates precision, enabling construction teams to excel in planning and execution.
- Immediate Information: Scans offer real-time access, improving operations, productivity, and minimizing rework.
- Cost Reduction: Rapid scanning, completing tasks in minutes, accelerates projects and can save up to 50% compared to conventional 2D methods, contributing to increased profitability.
- Reduced Manual Labor: Automation minimizes tedious manual tasks, ensuring accuracy and eliminating the need for multiple site visits by various professionals.
- Streamlined Coordination: 3D laser scanning fosters improved collaboration on-site, facilitating faster and more informed decision-making.
Challenges of Laser Scanning
While the benefits are substantial, laser scanning comes with its set of challenges:
- Cost: Initial implementation can be expensive, impacting overall project budgets.
- Training Requirements: Adequate training is essential, addressing potential skills gaps within the workforce.
- Scope: Despite detailed site plans, worker familiarity with the area remains crucial for optimal results.
Initiating Laser Scanning in Construction
Embarking on the journey of introducing laser scanning to your projects? Consider these tips:
- Start Early: Implement the technology from the project’s inception for maximum accuracy.
- Choose Wisely: Opt for buying, renting, or using a service based on your company’s needs and financial considerations.
- Integrate with Other Technologies: Use laser scanning in conjunction with other technologies, such as BIM, to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
Learning from Industry Pioneers
Explore success stories from companies at the forefront of adopting 3D laser scanning:
- DPR Construction: An early adopter, DPR Construction showcases the technology’s effective utilization.
- Tejjy Inc is a Women Minority Business Enterprise (MBE/DBE/WBE) on the GSA Schedule as well as a Women-Owned Small Business(WOSB). Being a leading Architectural Engineering Design Solution provider we adopt BIM VDC technology for premium quality designs.
- Gilbane: The integration of laser scans into Revit models has resulted in significant cost savings and field improvements.
- ATFF: Specializing in scan-to-BIM services, ATFF’s success in a hospital renovation project highlights the technology’s practical applications.
While the construction industry has historically been slow to embrace new technology, 3D laser scanning is swiftly becoming a standard on project sites. The time is ripe to explore its potential and consider incorporating this transformative technology into your upcoming projects for enhanced quality, cost savings, and improved overall efficiency.
