Advanced 3D Laser Scanning Technology When It Comes to Design Survey Projects

Posted by Calvada on March 6th, 2017

Laser scanning continues to be widely accepted as the most advanced land surveying method since the technology was introduced in 1998. In fact, it is the new industry standard in making accurate and detailed measurements, especially for complex projects and environments. One of the applications of 3D laser scanning technology is conducting as-built surveys inside structures that have already been built. Advanced laser scanners collect survey data points quickly, typically at 50,000 points per second, to render a complete 3D model of the building or a specific area. This way, advanced 3D laser scanning technology is considered the most advanced and updated land surveying technique that is faster and more accurate compared to conventional surveying methods.

Professionals like project developers, builders, and architects prefer 3D laser scanning when it comes to design survey projects, especially if they need to survey land that has already been constructed but must be examined for remodeling, destruction, or renovation. Providers of the service use high-end software to view the scanned 3D images. Laser scanning technology makes it possible to build detailed 3D images to be displayed in panoramic view, complete with markups and other important measurements. The equipment can take 360 by 320-degree photo-realistic panoramic scans, too. Hence, you can use precise and exclusive 3D images for your design survey project.

Advanced 3D laser scanning is typically conducted during the developmental stage of a project, particularly at the planning and initiation stages. However, it can be conducted much later, too, such as before and during upgrades, and at the conclusion phase. Only licensed and certified land surveyors are authorized to conduct a 3D laser scan of your property, so be sure to hire these professionals from a reputable land surveying company.

Apart from updating and creating as-built documentation, advanced 3D laser scanning technology can be applied to a number of other applications. It can be used for assessing the condition or damage on a structure, check clash or interference, finding tank and vessel volume information, deformation analysis, and weld peaking reports. Architects can refer to the results when creating 2D plans, and building inspectors can use them as an aid during inspections. Equipment for 3D laser scanning can exchange data with commonly used CAD platforms. It can provide full 3D CADS models quickly and accurately from point clouds, too.

About the Author:

Armando Dupont, a professional land surveyor, started his career in surveying in 1977 and has extensive experience in managing personnel and projects. His experience includes: topographic mapping, boundary surveys and analysis, construction and control surveying, preparation of tract and parcel maps, earth work calculation and quantities, targeting and control for photogrammetric, and land title surveys in accordance with the American Land Title Association and the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping. Mr. DuPont founded Calvada Surveying, Inc. in 1989 and is a licensed Professional Land Surveyor in the State of California.