Transforming Reality into
Digital Precision

3D laser scanning is a modern technology that using advanced laser technology to give a “reality capture” or a detailed digital representation of objects, structures, or environments in our world. We use laser scanners to rapidly capture the physical properties of objects and convert them into precise, 3D data. The end result of this is known as a “point cloud” which can be used for various things in the construction industry but most commonly for 3D modeling, as built drawings, and in partnership with a professional surveyor.

Key Features of 3D Laser Scanning:

• Accuracy: 3D laser scanners are capable of recording millions of coordinate points per second allowing for detailed analysis and engineering right down to the millimeter.
• Speed: With modern technology, traditional surveying methods are becoming obsolete because 3D laser scanning can be completed in a fraction of the time, which is ideal for a project with a tight timeline.
• Versatility: 3D laser scanning can be used for a large variety of industries and applications in the AEC world from creating complex architectural models to inspecting industrial components and documenting historical sites.
• Non-Intrusive: Since 3D laser scanners are contactless equipment, data can be captured without ever touching or damaging the object. This is invaluable for historic sites and sensitive or fragile materials.
• Comprehensive Dave Collection: 3D laser scanners provide the complete view of an object or space capturing every visible detail in three dimensions which can be manipulated and viewed from any angle.

In the modern area of construction, 3D laser scanning is taking over the industry because of its ability to merge both accuracy and speed incomparable to what was previously possible. Whether you’re needing 3D laser scanning for designing, inspecting, or preserving, you’ll get incredibly detailed insights that traditional methods simply cannot achieve.

In short, highly accurate. Modern 3D laser scanning technology is used to create 3D models or as-built drawings more detailed than we’ve ever seen before from physical spaces and objects. As with many things, the accuracy of 3D laser scanning varies based on some key factors, but overall, you cannot put a price on the extremely precise data made available by this technology.

Factors Influencing Accuracy:

• Scanner Quality: As you’d expect, a high end scanner provide higher measurement accuracy and a finer resolution. It’s possible for a lower-end scanner to miss the minute details, and that’s why our 3D laser scanning company only uses top-of-the-line equipment on our projects.
• Environmental Conditions: Some elements of the environment such as lighting, temperature, and humidity will have an affect on the accuracy of your 3D laser scanning project. For example, if you’ve got bright sunlight on highly reflective surfaces, it can interfere with the laser’s ability to capture clear data.
• Target Surface Properties: The material and color of the object being scanned also plays a role. Dark, shiny, or transparent surfaces can potentially pose a challenge and reduce accuracy, especially from lower-end 3d laser scanners.
• Operator Skill: The technician behind the scanner, as you might expect, also plays a large part in the quality of the output in your laser scanning project. Proper setup and calibration of the equipment is essential to getting the best possible results. That’s why you’d want to partner with 3D laser scanning professionals like us with over 16 years of experience in the industry.

There’s more than a couple of advantages to integrating the modern technology of 3D laser scanning into your construction projects. You’ll receive highly enhanced results in the departments of accuracy and efficiency and even in flexibility for project management and data utilization.

Some Key Differences

• Speed and Efficiency: 3D laser scanning captures millions of data points in just minutes, this creates a dramatic difference in the time required to survey large sites and complex structures. The speed at which 3D laser scanners can collect data minimizes your downtime and enables faster progression to the next step of your construction project.
• Accuracy & Precision: Laser scanners provide exceptionally high precision, down to the millimeter in most cases, and ensures that your measurements are reliable. This level of detailed is paramount for fitting components, aligning structures, and avoiding any costly mistakes that might occur from an inaccurate measurement.
• Comprehensive Data Capture: Unlike traditional methods, which might only capture specific dimensions, 3D laser scanning offers a complete picture of the scanned environment. This is particularly useful in the construction industry for catching issues early on like clashing in the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.
• Enhanced Collaboration: The digital data (point clouds) generated from 3D scans can be easily shared with all stakeholders, including architects, engineers, and contractors. The ease of access to this allows for better communication and collaboration amongst your project managers and real time updated to the plans.
• Cost Savings: Every contractor or engineer wants to save money on their project, and 3D laser scanning is one of the best ways to cut your costs on reworks, delays, and errors. Having accurate scans will ensure that your materials and designs are correct the first time, which avoids waste and any additional costs.

Overall, 3D laser scanning is being adopted into the world of construction because it’s leading the industry in accuracy, efficiency, and safety for construction projects.