My group will be basing our research
paper on the capabilities of 3D laser scanning and its functions in the
construction and structural design industry. Following this, we will break down
the applications of laser scanning and focus on what we feel are the most
important in line with intelligent building.
We chose this to be our topic
because of the heavy focus on BIM in this class. 3D scanning offers an alternative
method of generating a 3D model for an existing structure and in a majority of
cases, generates an accurate model in less than 2 hours, a process that could
take an entire week or more for a skilled BIM software specialist [1].
Another “intelligent” innovation
that 3D scanning has brought to the table is how engineers are using it in
structural analysis. Laser scanning allows for the technician to essentially
map and surface of a structure, and depending on the type of scanner, they can
look for heat distribution, cracks, and any number of abnormalities they are
looking for [2].
Other applications exist for laser
scanning including excavation control (precise dimensioning of excavations),
free-form component inspection, and construction progress monitoring [1]. One
challenge this technology faces is that it can only scan what it can see. If a
surface of the structure if covered, then the laser scanner may not be able to
detect it, however, it is clear that this technology offers numerous benefits
in the construction and engineering fields and I for one am interesting in
seeing what the future holds for such a device. Being able to rapidly scan and
model an existing structure is a powerful tool, and like any other intelligent
design technology it is likely to continually adapt to the ever demanding
engineering environment.
Seeing as this is what everyone
else is doing I might as well throw in the outline as well.
1. Introduction
to 3D Laser Scanning
a.
What is laser scanning
b.
How is it used
c.
Why is it important
d.
What makes it “intelligent”
2. Applications
of 3D Laser Scanning
a.
Modeling of 3D Structures
b.
Creating as build models of assets in a fraction
of the time it does to do in BIM software
c.
Surveying/Elevation
d.
Structural Analysis (looking for damage)
e.
Highlight importance of its functions for
structural analysis (or 3D modeling depending on preference)
3. Laser
Scanning in Structural Analysis
a.
Explain how it has changed the ways structural
analysis can be conducted
b.
Go into specific applications
i. Heat
Mapping
ii. Scanning
for surface cracks
iii. Erosion
iv. Abnormalities
4. Laser
Scanning in 3D Modeling
a.
Explain how it takes 3D modeling and approaches
it from an intelligent design angle
i. Faster
processing times/generation of models
ii. No
need to train someone in BIM software
b.
How 3D laser scanning can be incorporated with
BIM software
5. Discuss
limitation of 3D laser scanning
6. Closing
Paragraph
a.
Highlight fundamentals of 3D laser scanning
b.
Talk about the future of where the technology
can go
Sources:
Comments:
I agree that the application of laser scanning when paired with either forming BIModels or tracking work could be very helpful for the construction industry. I was wondering at what scale this is feasible, however. Is it possible to scan the exterior of a building or block, and what would the cost and time requirements be? There would also likely be a balance between cost and resolution of the models depending on the use.
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