How 3D Laser Elevates Construction
From inspection to layout to documentation, concrete contractors and engineers can better manage construction projects with the precise data that can be captured in 3D laser scans.
While manual inspections and hand measurements can produce reliable results, they cannot match the 2-6 millimeter-accurate data generated from 3D laser scanners, which make it easier to identify issues and reduce errors.
So, how can 3D laser scans and their reality capture data be used for concrete projects and how does it improve them?
Deformation Maps
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Deformation maps are color coded diagrams used in construction and engineering that show the topography, the arrangement of the physical features of an area, of built surfaces. Picture a topographical map of a park or a state, but for the levelness of concrete floors and walls.
Deformation maps play a vital role in construction planning by presenting contractors with elevation data that shows them the precise amount of concrete needed to level or correct uneven surfaces. High and low points are displayed throughout the map and provide comprehensive data for contractors and architects to identify problem areas.
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Before the arrival of 3D laser scanning, the methods used to analyze the flatness or levelness of concrete floors was a labor-intensive process that required a substantial amount of time.
One such method requires the creation of a grid on a concrete slab following a set of specifications, like the ASTM E1155 standard method, before taking manual readings along every foot of the grid lines.
By using the point cloud data collected from 3D laser scans of concrete slabs, highly detailed, colorized deformation maps can be quickly produced, so contractors can fix elevation discrepancies with speed and assurance.
The same goes for scanning concrete walls and uncovering cracks or deflections, which is a term that describes the amount of deformation that occurs within a slab due to the weight placed on it over time. Deflections in concrete slabs can occur for several reasons, including fatigue, design errors, aging, and point loads.
Similar to the cases with uneven floors, 3D point cloud data for walls, ceilings, and other structures can be converted into deformation maps that show where the deflections or cracks are, so they can remedy any issues they discover.
Pre and Post Pour
From the pre-pour process through the screeding, floating, and edging of fresh concrete, reality capture can assist any concrete pouring job from start to finish.
By capturing the condition of the site before the pouring has begun, contractors have complete pre-pour asset documentation and can verify that the area matches how it is shown in the engineering plans.
And once the pour is complete, highly accurate 3D scans can be performed to confirm that the pour was consistent with the design. Additionally, once the slab has cured to meet strength targets, post-tensioning is complete, and all temporary shoring is removed, the slab can be laser scanned again to provide contractors and their clients with the true as-built existing condition of the structure.
Checking If Concrete Is Out of Tolerance
Being out of tolerance is defined as a concrete element that deviates from a specified range during the construction process.
With the quantitative data provided by 3D laser scans, contractors can identify if concrete floors, stairs, ramps, and columns are out of tolerance. The precision of the data helps contractors and engineers ensure the structural integrity of the concrete and reduce the need for rework.
Documentation For Prefabrication
3D laser scans of staircases, walkways, railing systems, and other existing structural elements can expedite prefabrication projects. Prefabrication of concrete is known as the creation of concrete components in an off-site factory and transporting them to a construction site for assembly.
The point cloud data of the structural elements can be transformed into 3D BIM models or 2D CAD drawings to ensure accuracy that leads to a smooth installation process.
Inspecting Ramps & Cross Slopes for ADA Compliance
To comply with ADA requirements, ramps and cross slopes must meet certain standards for width, placement, slope, and other features. Similar to prefabrication projects, the point cloud data of these ramps and cross slopes can be converted into 3D models and 2D drawings to allow contractors the ability to evaluate the site with construction-grade data.
Whether it’s a single concrete slab or an entire skyscraper, Existing Conditions, a GPRS company, offers our 3D Laser and Reality Capture expertise to help your projects Start Accurate and Stay Accurate.
Over the past 27 years, we have measured, documented, and modeled over 10,000 buildings spanning over 700 million square feet across the United States, establishing ourselves as an industry leader in 3D laser scanning. Architects, builders, engineers, developers, facility managers, trust us to deliver digital representations of the as-built environment with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. Our services, including 3D laser scanning, 3D photogrammetry, and BIM modeling, Intelligently Visualize The Built World® to enable architects to make informed design decisions based on the most accurate data available.
What can we help you visualize?
FAQs
How Does Laser Scanning Work?
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One primary method is that a laser scanner sends light pulses at high speeds which reflect off objects and return to the scanners’ sensor. For each pulse, the distance between the scanner and object is measured by determining the elapsed time between the sent and received pulses. Each point of the scan will be converted to a pixel with a known x-, y-, and z- coordinate. Laser scans or LiDAR scans are taken in multiple positions around a site from varying viewpoints. Millions of data points are captured and processed into a point cloud, creating an accurate data set of the structure or site.
Why is a Point Cloud Important?
Point clouds provide powerful and dynamic information for a project. By representing spatial data as a collection of coordinates, point clouds deliver large datasets that can be mined for information. The visualization and analysis from this data is invaluable for decision making. Our Product team transforms point clouds into customized drawings and models used for visualization, analysis, design, construction, renovation, prefabrication, and facility modifications.
Why are precise measurements important in the building industry?
Precise measurements are crucial for accurate decision-making and project success. Being the best as-built survey company in the industry, we know that without precise information, the decisions made regarding a project lose accuracy, jeopardizing the quality of the project as a whole. At Existing Conditions, we understand the significance of accurate data, which is why we specialize in providing the best building industry professionals with reliable as-built drawings and existing condition surveys. Our meticulous approach ensures that you have a clear understanding of your building's existing conditions, empowering you to make informed decisions.
