3D LASER SCANNING IN ENGINEERING

3D LASER SCANNING IN ENGINEERING High definition topography (HDS), or "laser scanning", is a new method used by integrated design and construction companies to capture a highly detailed 3D image of a construction project. Instead of using cameras to capture this virtual image, lasers are used (which are much more accurate).

Companies like Faro and Leica Geosystems have created sophisticated laser scanning devices that allow contractors to quickly extract 3D data from a structure. This can be used for a multitude of things, such as data analysis, the creation of a renewal model, comparison with models or drawings designed to guarantee quality, a record of what is behind the walls and much more. .

In general, the design and construction industry is not one in which shortcuts are easily accepted. The benefits of an integrated design and construction model require a total investment in each step of the process, from the initial concept to a completed project. As a result, the architecture, engineering and construction industry has been relatively slow in adopting new technologies. This is slowly changing as you see companies that adopt building information modeling (BIM), drones and GPS technologies.

Laser scanning increases efficiency, provides a faster response to projects while reducing labor costs and allows contractors to add more value until completion of construction. It is estimated that laser scanning can reduce the time of data collection at the site by 50-70% compared to traditional methods. In addition, a cost / benefit analysis shows that the cost of adopting laser scanning can be done in only 1520 projects.

However, when it comes to laser scanning, it is a shortcut that should be and has been adopted in constructions related to construction. This relatively new technology is growing in the field of engineering. It is largely driven by the time saving and cost reduction benefits it provides.

According to Grand View Research, the 3D scanning market is expected to grow above $ 8 billion by 2025. Much of the growth is attributed to the industrial manufacturing segment, specifically in metal processing and modeling processes. The Rhodes Group reports that 3D laser scanning can reduce total project costs by up to 5-7%, and the program by up to 10% in industrial projects

WHAT IS 3D LASER SCANNING?

3D laser scanning is an advanced technology that captures the shapes of physical objects digitally using a laser light. The laser scanner captures very specific details, as well as forms and forms, with precision accuracy. The scanned data can be digitally converted into three-dimensional products, such as models, planes and elevations with full texture.

Unlike methods that only capture individual points one at a time, a 3D laser scanner captures many details of a whole building or construction scene. Essentially, think of laser scanning as a camera that takes a 360-degree photo but with a precise position for each pixel.

The laser scanner is placed on the construction site or inside a building. Data points are captured using a mounted scanner, much like a traditional surveyor works. The field data is converted digitally through special software to complete the desired images. All this helps engineering companies complete projects more quickly and accurately than with other traditional methods.

HOW IS 3D LASER SCANNING USED IN ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION APPLICATIONS? Early adopters of 3D laser scanning technology include architects, contractors, surveyors, civil engineers, CAD professionals and plant designers. All these roles benefit from more complete information and accurate data related to their projects 3D scanning is especially beneficial for those involved in renovations, major construction projects, additions or the reuse of structures. Some of the real-world applications that use laser scanning are comprehensive plans and elevations, site panoramic images, and construction locations for integrated design-build projects, full-textured models, and BIM. When working on a renovation or redevelopment project, it is difficult to obtain up-to-date construction or maintenance documents.

If a contractor uses a laser scanning device, he can capture a completely accurate image for these projects, essentially creating his own construction "documents" at the push of a button. The data generated by the scanner is loaded into the building information modeling software (BIM), which allows the contractor to continue effortlessly with the construction planning processes.

Consider the revitalization of historic buildings, for example, where abandoned historic buildings become usable space within a community. VIP Structures has experience in this area, and an important piece of this type of project is the restoration of a building to its original facade and interior features. It is safe to say that the precise precision of laser scanning would be effective here. Here stands a historic reconstruction project in downtown Syracuse.