What is 3D laser scanning?
Learn | April 29, 2015
What Exactly is 3D Laser Scanning?
Some of our most frequent clients started with the same question.
A 3D laser scanner is a tool that allows us to capture millions of points of data about a building, machinery, or our environment within seconds using laser light technology. That data is then collected into a “point cloud” which allows us to create digital models of the building or environment. In the past, if you wanted to know the actual measurements of a building as opposed to what was supposed to be built, you had to visit the building and take one measurement at a time by hand. In addition to problems with accuracy, that method was tedious and slow. Once a building is scanned with 3D laser scanners, all that data is available to you in the digital record. Want to know the slope of the floor? Check the scan. How many light fixtures are in the space? Check the scan. How is the HVAC routed? Check the scan. Even better, the point cloud can be shared so every member of your team has access.
How Does 3D Laser Scanning Work?
We won’t bore you with the technical details, but it essentially works a lot like a camera. Once we set up the scanner, it turns in a circle, capturing data about everything it can see around it. Each scan collects millions of points of data which can easily be stitched together. The result is a complete digital picture that creates an overall representation of the site. The level of detail collected by a scanner is impossible to obtain by any other means. Just like hitting “save as” on a document, a scan captures the current state of a building, capturing every nuance and spatial relationship.
What Are the Benefits?
A Scan Is:
- Faster
- More accurate
- Non-intrusive
- A complete digital record
Why Is This Important?
- Answer unanticipated questions before they arise
- Optimize schedules and minimize shut-down times
- Eliminate errors
- Reduce change orders and waste caused by inaccuracies
- Increase safety
As architecture and building projects become further inundated with technology, 3D laser scanning move towards the forefront of spatial measurement and analysis. TrueScan stands as one of the industry leaders and experts ready to bring the most detailed and accurate data needed to make your building project a success. With top-of-the-line equipment and veteran know-how, TrueScan can help you bring your project in on time, under budget, and virtually stress-free. Contact us for a personalized quote today.
