3D Laser Scanning In Construction Complete Guide

3D Laser scanning also known as high-definition surveying (HDS) or reality capture, is a non-destructive technology that is used to capture the spatial geometry of the structure in the form of a point cloud in order to develop accurate multi-dimensional digital representations of the built asset.

It captures the finest geographical details with the precision of the targeted points of the structure regardless of its surface features or dimensions. 3D laser scanning also facilitates the construction industry with accurate topographical data of the land/contour as it is used as a method for surveying.

The 3D laser scanning technology works on LiDAR technology (Light Detection and Ranging) ; hence it is also referred to as LiDAR scanning. The high-definition LiDAR scanner, targeted to a point, throws out laser rays in order to capture the structure’s geometry. The rays emitted from the 3D scanner reflects back to the scanner after a collision with the surface.

Also Read: Differences between LiDAR and Laser

The distance travelled by the laser rays is known as the time of flight. The reflected rays come back to the scanner, loaded with accurate information of the physical geometry. The BIM engineers use the point cloud data for the development of a detailed three-dimensional model of the facility.

How Is Laser Scanning Performed On-site?

Let’s check out the detailed step-wise procedure of 3D laser scanning given below but before that let us understand the fundamentals first -

Laser scanning involves a vertically rotating mirror emitting short bursts of laser beams, which are then reflected back to the scanner. The laser scanner measures key attributes of the surface, such as azimuth, altitude, and distance.

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This data is combined to create a 3D point cloud, a detailed representation of the scene. To add texture or color, matching photos can be taken using either a built-in camera or an external camera. The scans can also be geo-referenced to local coordinate systems, ensuring precise location in space.

The first step is to plan the scan. This includes determining the scope of the scan, the type of laser scanner to use, and the data processing and visualization software to use.

The scope of the scan will determine the amount of data that needs to be collected. For example, if you are scanning a small room, you will need less data than if you are scanning an entire building.

The type of laser scanner to use will depend on the scope of the scan and the desired accuracy. There are a variety of laser scanners available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

A variety of point cloud data processing and visualization software, like Autodesk ReCap, can be used.

Step 2: Set Up the Scanner

The next step is to set up the scanner. This includes placing the scanner in a stable location and calibrating the scanner.

The scanner should be placed in a stable location so that the data collected is accurate. The scanner should also be calibrated so that the measurements are accurate.

If it is a terrestrial scanner, it should be deployed in several areas to obtain precise point cloud data. However, if it is a mobile scanner, the point cloud will be collected as it moves around the building.

The next step is to collect the data. This is done by moving the laser scanner around the object or space to be scanned. The laser scanner emits a beam of laser light and measures the time it takes for the light to return. The scanner then creates a point cloud, which is a collection of millions of points that represent the shape and size of the object or space.

If you need to capture an entire scene where some views may be obstructed or if a site is so big that the scanner can’t reach all of it with one stand, the scanner can be moved to different vantage points for more scans. The best vantage points will be based on on-site logistics and scanning capabilities. Multiple scans can then be automatically aligned with each other to create a complete 3D model of the scene.

After the scan, point cloud data is being generated. However, for greater architecture and construction purposes, point cloud data would not be that comprehensible to all the stakeholders. Therefore, it requires a whole set of point cloud to BIM conversion processes for the utilization of the data captured.

Subsequently, the point cloud conversion process involves several steps to improve the quality of raw point cloud data. These steps include data pre-processing, point cloud registration, decimation, surface reconstruction, and format conversion.

• Data pre-processing involves cleaning and filtering to remove noise, outliers, and inaccuracies.
• Point cloud registration ensures that points from different scans are accurately transformed into a common coordinate system.
• Decimation reduces the size of large datasets while preserving essential features.
• Surface reconstruction converts the point cloud into a solid surface representation, such as a mesh or 3D model.
• Format conversion may be necessary for BIM software compatibility.

BIM modeling from point cloud data involves importing the processed data into BIM software, georeferencing it to real-world coordinates, creating a base model, and then refining the model to add more detail and accuracy.

LiDAR 3D scanning technology offers numerous benefits for the construction industry, including accurate spatial data capture, enhanced planning and design, safe point cloud scanning, and efficient maintenance and facility management operations. It also aids in the renovation and retrofitting of structures, provides faster scan results, and helps construction owners save costs.

However, one has to keep in mind that it is more expensive than traditional survey instruments, requires proper training, and cannot capture hidden geometries. The recent trend shows the construction engineering industry is increasingly adopting digital technologies like digital twinning and 3D laser scanning for cost-efficiency, accuracy, and precision.

The point cloud scanning technology has proven beneficial in the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors, enhancing quality-assured outcomes.

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Originally published at https://www.tejjy.com on March 17, 2024.