How 3D Laser Scanners are used in Construction

1. How 3D Laser Scanners are used in Construction Three-dimensional laser scanners have enhanced the construction industry, making professionals’ jobs easier and projects more successful. This technology has come a long way and is continually being developed, and its applications make huge impacts in construction projects. What is 3D Laser Scanning? In essence, 3D laser scanning is the process of using a laser to collect information about an object or area. The laser scans the area and then collects data points that tell the computer about what it is seeing. Then, those data points are used to create several images, which are then combined into one 3D rendering of the area. The rendering is a computer file with an image that can be manipulated and interacted with, so a viewer can see an area from different angles. The technology is so detailed and accurate that the resulting images are extremely useful. They include minute details and accurately report things like size, spatial relationships and surface types. How is 3D Laser Scanning used on Site? In most cases, laser scanners are set up on tripods when used on construction sites. Then, a skilled operator controls the scanner so that it gathers data about the surrounding area. Handheld laser scanners and scanners attached to drones are also used in some cases. Construction professionals can use the scanner to gather data about a construction site, existing structures or a developing project. One of the perks of this method of documentation is that it doesn’t require surveyors to spend time mapping out a site and it can be done without touching or disturbing the site. It’s also very fast and accurate. What are Some Construction Applications for 3D Scanners? There are all kinds of projects that employ 3D laser scanners on site for a huge variety of reasons. Building and Neighbourhood Planning When a construction project is planned, experts survey the area so they know how to use the space efficiently and how to safely construct buildings and even entire neighbourhoods. Sometimes, renovations or new buildings need to be planned around existing buildings, which requires careful planning. Three-dimensional

2. scanners make this easier and faster, since they can capture areas with extreme detail. Planning Renovation Projects Renovation projects require experts to take into account current buildings, structural issues, utilities, occupancy and functionality. Three-dimensional scans can help them understand these elements so they can plan projects accordingly. By scanning existing geographic areas, buildings or even room interiors, construction workers have a very detailed starting point they can use in planning renovations. These renderings are also great tools for comparing results before and after a project was completed. Constructing and Maintaining Transportation Sites The roads, train tracks, railways and subways we all use every day are constructed to last for years and stand up to things like weather elements, continual wear and tear and even natural disasters. They are also maintained frequently, so they stay in great condition and provide safe transportation. Laser scanners are used to construct transportation sites and then to maintain them as areas are surveyed, bridges are planned and deterioration is monitored. Since they can quickly create renderings and provide very accurate reports, they are ideal tools for this kind of work. Monitoring Site Progress Monitoring site progress is extremely important as businesses plan their projects, budgets and completion dates. While some monitoring needs to be done manually, 3D laser scanners can make the job easier, especially when the site is very large. Scanners can quickly record the current details of a project, which can be compared to old scans so professionals can see how a project is progressing. This is helpful in planning, record keeping and reporting. Taking Employee Safety Measures Some areas aren’t safe to survey the old fashioned way, with employees taking measurements, photos and notes. Think crumbling buildings, condemned areas, buildings exposed to harmful substances or areas affected by natural disasters. In other cases, experts need to make sure buildings or areas comply with safety requirements before they send a team in. In these situations, laser scanners can go where people can’t. They can be set up on a

3. tripod and do all the work so people don’t have to risk touching buildings and causing further damage or exposing themselves to hazards. Scanners can even be attached to drones and flown into dangerous areas by operators looking for specific information or to map out an area. Planning, renovating, measuring progress, reporting on projects and surveying dangerous areas are all tasks 3D laser scanners can do very efficiently, and many times even better than people. These are just a handful of the ways 3D laser scanners are used in construction. Because this technology is still being advanced, new uses are always being developed, which make construction projects even more effective. As the technology advances, so will construction processes and abilities, making a positive impact in community planning, civil engineering and even public health. To find out more about 3D Scanning for Construction purposes please visit the 3D Scanner website - http://www.3dscannerstore.co.uk/focus3dx130/