The A to Z of Laser Scanning Surveying

In order to manage properties and assets in a better manner, it is very important to have measured building surveys carried out. No matter whether the project involves a small single building or a large commercial facility, fast and accurate deliverables are top priority matters. Anything from 3D laser scanning, to floor plans and elevations, to sections and internal photo imaging can be opted for depending upon the needs and requirements. For more information on measured building surveys, click here.

Whereas floor plans include a standard survey of net and gross internal areas and positions of windows, doors and structural elements, elevations offer a detailed survey of the building features in outline and can range up to a full brick-by-brick detailing where historic records are required. These surveys can be improved to include even minor additional details such as power outlets, switches, lights, etc.

However, among all available options, laser scanning finds the highest number of takers primarily because of the fact that it enables quick and accurate high-definition production of a three dimensional model of virtually any structure. The results can be in the form of simple ‘point clouds’ or a full blown three dimensional model.

Conventionally, engineers and constructors heavily relied on manual methods of gathering and putting together the data or extracting valuable information from existing drawings. But obviously, these methods were not only extremely tedious and harrowing, but also threatened the working schedule and led to overrunning of finances because of data inaccuracy. 3D laser scanning technology cuts down these problems and offers an exceedingly convenient and cost-effective solution to two-dimensional as well as three dimensional modelling for engineering or reconstruction purposes.

Laser scanning is a relatively new technology, but now it is quickly becoming the new industry standard as a means to make very precise and detailed measurements in complicated environments. This technology can be used in both civil as well as industrial applications for measuring as-built conditions inside buildings.

Laser scanners work in a very efficient and advanced manner. They have the ability to collect data points at a rate of 50,000 points per second, within an effective range of 400’ to 500’. By taking multiple scans of a given area, a complete three dimensional model can be made of the existing conditions. These models can then be further used in creating two dimensional architectural drawings. Laser point cloud data can be post processed (such as mapping, measuring, analysing, emulating, simulating, displaying, inspecting, etc). They can also be presented in the form of 3D computer models and digital surveys, making it extremely easy to work with them or document them.

Apart from the 3D models, ‘Webshare’ is generally offered by the survey providers as a great value addition, enabling viewing and analysing of every scan online, thereby providing an very useful tool to engineers and designers.

It makes sense for companies to invest in this technology because it not only maximises efficiency and productivity, but also allows clients to receive accurate and high definition survey data along with the best possible drawings. When as-built, detail, or engineering surveys are required, high-definition surveying is the way to go. Laser scanning technology can be effectively used for architectural surveys, archaeological surveys, topographical surveys, geophysical surveys as well as measured building surveys. The numerous numbers of applications of this technology make it highly popular and practical.

3D laser scanning is the most effective way to quickly get the data of the observed object. It also enables the users to view the buildings and other architectural elements through different angles so that they can get a fair idea of the design orientation and compare the design of the concerned building with the other buildings. The users can also try moving the buildings or carry out other emulation effects by using computers, enabling them to reflecting their own thoughts and ideas on the designs and getting a feel of the effect after modification. This makes 3D laser scanning surveying an infallible tool for not only measuring, but also for designing, planning and constructing.

This post is written in association with SUMO Services. The SUMO Group is a multi-disciplinary survey business, committed to maintaining the highest possible standards in all aspects of surveying. They are the survey provider you can totally rely and depend upon!