As the digital revolution evolves, numerous traditional processes across industry sectors are being made redundant or less efficient. In the engineering industry, this is certainly proving the case, with time old processes and tools being recycled in favor of quicker, safer, and more cost-effective methods. 3D laser scanning is one such tool that’s becoming an increasingly viable option for surveyors, spatial scientists and engineers looking to streamline processes and operate more efficiently.
Laser scanning technologies enable engineers and contractors to reduce risks, cut costs and speed up the design and build of a project, and with the global market valued at AUD4.62 billion as of 2018, it looks as though 3D scanning is here for the long haul.
How 3D scanning works
You may think 3D scanning is complex but on the contrary, it’s wonderfully simple. Instead of using cameras to take a virtual image, accurate laser scanners are deployed to capture a highly detailed image of an object in space. This relatively advanced technology captures the shapes of physical objects with pinpoint precision and digitally converts them to three dimensional textured models, plans and elevations. These objects can now also be duplicated using 3D printers with data captured by the scanner.
Unlike previous methods that only capture individual points one at a time, a 3D laser scanner captures rich detail of an entire scene. This is due to the instrument recording approximately one million points per second, rotating and throwing out miniscule dots which bounce back to measure any kind of physical space. This in turn creates a reality capture of what’s there in dot (or point cloud) form. The more scans conducted, the more overlap achieved and the higher accuracy and density of the dot points. This allows us to design straight from dot form, or point cloud, and then we include layers of reality modelling. This might include still photos or videos from a UAV amongst other tools and when this is all layered over the scan it reveals an interactive model which is accurate to a few millimeters.
Point cloud image of ground water treatment plant
In short, this technology completely revolutionises how engineers create models of a given space and removes the possibility of human error. With 3D laser scanning you have access to more precise models than any other method, showing the exact locations of some of the more ‘complex’ features of a project such as plumbing. When used correctly, the benefit from improved efficiency through reduced rework, which in turn, significantly lowers costs. Potential errors are exposed earlier, meaning real-time quality assurance enhances the ability to identify issues before they arise.
The cost savings
In addition to the effectiveness of the technology, 3D scanning can save businesses considerable amounts of money. Using 3D scanning means many of the project requirements are developed and reviewed off site and the need for follow-up visits to view and record additional details is dramatically reduced. Having eliminated human error from the offset, engineers can work more efficiently without concerning themselves with duplication or missed measures. Engineers can access the 3D scanned data before going to the fabrication stage in order to make initial assessments and fundamental calculations of a site build-out.
Safety first
Engineers often engage in hazardous work and must take careful measures to ensure their safety, but of course unexpected elements can arise and there is always an element of risk when working on site. A crucial aspect of comprehensive 3D laser scanning is that engineers can identify vulnerable and unsafe areas easily, therein reducing the amount of on-site accidents and injuries. This negates the need for time on-site and can also limit interruptions to a construction schedule. The scanning process itself is also safer than traditional practices as the data is captured remotely at a safe distance from any identified site hazards. This is particularly valid when capturing data along busy roadways or within rail corridors.
A data-rich analysis
The analysis of large datasets gathered from laser scanning has previously been an issue due to the sheer volume of data captured, but the situation has vastly improved in recent years. New software allows engineers to check an entire project for errors in significantly less time that without the technology. Furthermore, significant data may be collected in a variety of ways: from a distance, on the ground, or even in adverse weather conditions. The data collected can then be viewed in a 3D space back in the office allowing clients involved in the project to get a real view of the site without actually having to physically visit the area. The image collected from this data is both accurate, measurable and editable.
Long term benefits beyond design & build
As a project evolves, the data collected through 3D laser scanning can be compared against new drawings for quality assurance. Using laser scanning throughout the entire process means the new development will have data recorded for key stages in the project’s progression. This information monitoring and capture is helpful after construction is completed and during maintenance of the site. Site managers can quickly refer back to the original model (or progressive scans) at any time to see exactly where project elements are located and when they were placed. The scanned data can also provide a rich source for asset management during the life cycle of the project.
Keeping this long-term strategic perspective in mind during an integrated design-build project is truly a game-changer for the industry. With the evident benefits of this technology, an investment of time and money in the 3D laser scanning industry is essential for engineers in 2019 and beyond.
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Regional Lead - Location Intelligence
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