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Construction Technology: Here are the Top 5 Reasons to Laser Scan
Top 5 Reasons to Laser Scan
The Pearl Marketplace - Laser Scan to BIM Model
TOO MANY TOOLS TO CHOOSE FROM
With the explosion of the Construction Technology space, there is a wide range of new tools at our disposal. It can be challenging to cut through the noise and determine which tools will provide valuable solutions.
Here are five reasons why Laser Scanning may be the right solution for your project:
1) IMPROVE QUALITY & ACCURACY
Verify as-built conditions to improve design and pre-construction process
2) COST SAVINGS
Accurate data reduces installation errors and eliminates construction re-work
3) SAFETY
Provides workers with a solid visual understanding of the working conditions before they even begin
4) STREAMLINE COORDINATION
Introduce scan data into models for improved trade coordination utilizing virtual design and construction tools
5) SCHEDULE OPTIMIZATION
Create predictable outcomes by eliminating unknowns
LASER SCAN BASICS
Laser scanning, also known as LiDAR and reality capture, uses a laser to capture and map an area with high accuracy. It seemed farfetched when laser scanning was first introduced to the construction industry. It was expensive and difficult to source, and the industry wasn’t ready to embrace it. By way of technology and industry advancement, it has now become more accessible.
With the common availability of design and coordination models, the benefits of this technology have become a reality. As we’ve stepped into the possibilities of laser scanning, we have found that it has the potential to add value throughout the entire project life cycle.
During the design phase, and especially when working on renovations or additions to the existing structure, scans can become the starting point for design or provide a means for verifying existing conditions.
Point Cloud As-Builts
Success Stories
BEXAR COUNTY COURTHOUSE
Our first laser scanning project was with Bexar County Courthouse. Since the building was initially built in 1887, no digital as-builts were available for renovations. We used LiDAR scanning to capture the as-built conditions and VDC tools to coordinate new construction systems.
THE PEARL MARKETPLACE DEVELOPMENT
The Pearl Market Development is a recent historic building redevelopment project utilizing laser scanning technology. The Joeris team scanned the building interior, and the resulting point cloud was used to create an as-built model of the building to assist the design team.
Existing Conditions
Results of Scan: Point Model
Point Model translated to BIM Model
CLEBURNE ISD WHEAT MIDDLE SCHOOL
On another recent project, Cleburne ISD's Wheat Middle School, we scanned the 140,000 square foot building during summer school. We captured the existing conditions without disrupting campus occupants and with no invasive work. Below-ceiling scans captured architectural features, and telescopic scanning devices allowed us to capture the existing structural and MEP components above ceilings. These scans resulted in a high-quality point cloud delivered to the architect, who integrated deliverables into their BIM model to produce highly accurate construction documents.
A Powerful Tool Worth Utilizing
Construction Technology (CT) teams can easily integrate laser scans into models for trade coordination during construction. The scans can be performed quickly, done at various points of construction, and implemented to coordinate specific areas. CT teams can also use laser scanning to check concrete slab flatness easily. This oversight allows us to quickly analyze the boundaries of any areas that need to be adjusted and determine the volume of material required.
Lori Peery, Director of Construction Technology
