What is 3D Laser Scanning?
posted 20th June 2024
3D laser scanning provides accurate site information that is used before the design and planning stages. These scanners capture all the details of the site from the structural and architectural elements to underground utilities, concrete reinforcements, and more. It works at an incredible speed with outstanding accuracy, providing a site plan that captures dimensions, layout, and locations.
How Does it Work?
3D laser scanners use light, detection, and ranging (LIDAR) technology that maps millions of data points on a construction site. The scanner sends light pulses at high speeds, these reflect off objects and return back to the scanner. Each pulse measures the distance between the object and the scanner. This is measured based on the elapsed time between the send and receive pulse. Data points are then converted to pixels.
Data points from numerous viewpoints and positions are captured and then processed into a point cloud, creating an accurate 3D data set of the construction site. Some scanners can capture up to two million data points in a second with a two to four millimetre accuracy. Once completed, you have accurate real time data that can be processed into 2D CAD drawings and 3D BIM models.
3D Laser Scanning Applications
3D laser scanning can be used for a number of applications, including:
- Data on existing conditions
- Construction verification
- Design for upgrades and expansions
- Architectural documentation for historical sites
- Calculation overhead clearances
- Collection geospatial data
- and more
The type of application you need will determine what 3D laser scanner is used.
3D Laser Scanning Benefits
3D laser scanning speeds up the data capturing process when surveying your land. These scanners have the ability to capture millions of data points within a few short minutes, while offering comprehensive information on the building or the site being surveyed. 3D laser scanning has become the top choice for property owners when requesting a site survey before their build commences. Thanks to technology advancements, these scanners provide excellent precision and accuracy.
When using 3D laser scanning you enjoy fast collection of site data to speed up your planning and design stages. These scanners capture exact measurements and dimensions, reducing the risk of discrepancies and site revisits. In addition to this, they help reduce project risks and delays, that can cost money in the long run.
What Do Point Clouds Provide?
Point clouds can be turned into custom drawings, models, virtual tours, and more. They are delivered in a host of file formats and are used with a variety of software packages. Point clouds can provide you with:
- 3D virtual tours – enabling teams to walk through a site in minutes
- 2D CAD drawings – floor plans, elevations, and sections for construction planning
- 3D mesh models – view sites geometry inside a CAD environment
- 3D BIM models – accurate models of a building or site, providing spatial relationships, maintenance information, infrastructure, and more.
Conclusion
3D laser scanning has changed how you have your property surveyed, whether you are planning a new build and you need the land surveyed, or you want to expand your existing property. Thanks to advancements in technology, these scanners provide accurate and precise data that can be used for the design and planning stages of the build.
These scanners can capture up to two million data points per second with up to four millimetre accuracy. They have become the most trusted way to take accurate measurements and dimensions of a building or piece of land.