WHEN TO USE 3D LASER SCANNING

6 times you may need 3D Laser Scanning on your project.

The question often arises with new clients, “when should we use 3D laser scanning?”. ?The quick answer is, anytime during the project life cycle. Laser scanning can be deployed in many places and can help in most types of projects. ?From infrastructure, construction, road construction, new builds, small renovations, complex rebuilds, new equipment planning, HVAC replacement, and everything in between.

ONE:?NEW CONSTRUCTION

Laser scanning can be utilized to asses new site conditions, ie topographic surveys, pile placement, etc. 3D Scanning will also give you an accurate picture of the infrastructure that might be affected by new construction like current utilities, existing buildings etc. ?Scans mid project support accurate assessment of progress, as build verification and document hidden components (MEP) at any stage.

TWO: BIM (Building Information Modelling)

A contractor can scan all components as they are installed with up to millimeter accuracy data on pipe, HVAC, structural steel, floors and rebar in the concrete slabs throughout the building. ?This information can be compared to the design to verify that all components are installed as planned. If any errors are discovered, the design can be revised so that new components can be altered in the fabrication process instead of costly changes or rework onsite. The scan can also help with verifying the installed material which can verify cost estimates, which can solve any discrepancies between contract owner and subcontractors.

THREE: FLOOR AND SLAB FLATNESS

Use Laser Scanning to quickly and easily calculate any areas that need to be adjusted and accurately determine the volume of material needed. This capability leads to more accurate material orders and less waste and ultimately better builds. Floor Flatness and Levelness can be assessed and reported even before the concrete is dry allowing immediate correction.

FOUR: PROJECT PLANNING

Laser scanning can be a vital tool to access conditions, aid in design, confirm designs, document progress, confirm specifications, confirm cost estimates as well as control cost over runs. This can help projects stay on time and on budget.

FIVE: RE-CONSTRUCTION

Laser Scanning is essential during renovations, rebuilds and remodels. For renovations or additions to an existing structure, drawings are often out of date or simply don’t exist. This can make designing renovations or additions difficult. Laser scanning can accurately survey the existing structure and utilities. This data can be used alone or be brought into any CAD package and used to develop existing condition drawings. With this data, a designer, architect or engineer can model and create the new additions or features and be confident that the design will be compatible with the existing conditions without on site rework or remodels. Once these documents are created, laser scanning can continue to add value by capturing construction milestones and providing quality assurance as the project progresses. Laser scanning is a powerful tool that can save thousands of dollars in rework, keep projects on schedule and provide valuable information for all stakeholders. There are countless benefits to utilize this technology on your next project.

SIX: HISTORICAL DOCUMENTATION

Think Cathedral of Notre Dame.??This was a significant loss, but luckily the cathedral was laser scanned.??They now have accurate, detailed historical data complete with full dimensional accuracy down to every mm.?This will allow the church to be rebuilt exactly as it was.?Scan data is a benefit that will be enjoyed by the masses, yet at the time, the question certainly was “why would we need that?”