3D Laser Scanning in Construction — What You Need to Know

The laser scanning technology enables engineers to survey a physical object or a piece of land accurately. It helps them collect valuable data and build a digital model of the actual facility with precise shape and size. As a result, they can detect design flaws early and make necessary changes before the construction work starts.

Started Slow, Growing Rapidly

Laser scanning makes the job more efficient and timesaving. It was still not widely adopted in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) industry until recently. The demand for laser scanning technology in the construction domain was below 60% at the end of 2018. However, with the increased awareness about the numerous purposes, it can solve, 3D laser scanning is quickly becoming a norm in the construction field.

What Exactly is 3D Scanning

As mentioned earlier, a 3D laser scanner helps digitally capture the dimensions of objects using a line of laser light. Then the scanner creates “point cloud” images that replicate the actual entities.

In simple words, 3D Scanning helps create a three-dimensional representation of scanned areas.

Engineers can also perform multiple scans from different lines of sight and link them together for large objects or sites.

Laser Scanning in Construction

The Process

If you wonder about how laser scanning is being used in construction, here is a brief explanation.

It is usually a three-part process:

1. Data Collection & Design — As you might know now, the first step is to document property or buildings with the appropriate detail. Today, many companies follow a scan-to-BIM (Building Information Modeling) method to gather information and import the data. It helps them start the 3D modeling process at earliest.

2. Coordination — The next step is sharing data among the stakeholders to communicate for any challenge or change with the design. Please keep in mind that Scanning is not restricted to wind up at the initial level. You can perform it at various stages of the construction project lifecycle as and when required. It helps rectify any errors made previously and create the solution faster.

3. Modification — Here, the creation of as-built documentation based on the suggested changes by the project owners and involved team members is done. The team then uses the data to modify the 3D model. You can also store the information for future purposes such as facility renovations, structural additions, or demolitions.

Benefits

• Enables accurate, quick Scanning of any object or area with any dimension and in any environment like indoors, outdoors, daylight and nighttime
• Supports in creating comprehensive documentation as per the existing as-built conditions
• Helps improve communication and collaboration between the concerned team members to facilitate the development & completion of the project
• Saves a significant amount of time and cost by reducing error-prone manual work at various stages of the construction project lifecycle

Challenges

• Requires high upfront investment
• Finding a reliable team with experience and expertise in using the right technology and tools as per the project requirement
• Though the Scanning can be performed remotely to reduce site visits, the members should be familiar with the location to create the best 3D designs

Top Tips

1. You can do proper planning beforehand. It can cover data collection & management, implementing the right technology & tools, finalizing timeframe, and budget — based on the specific use case.
2. You might also need to ensure that the team starts scanning, combining the point cloud data with the right program. It is then you start translating it into 3D CAD models early for better, faster outputs.
3. If you do not have in-house expertise or experience in 3D modeling, you can benefit from a reliable engineering company.

Conclusion

We hope this article made you excited about leveraging the potential of 3D Scanning in your upcoming construction plan. An experienced partner can help you with the point cloud modeling services, regardless of your project location, size and volume.