What is 3D Scanning?
3D laser scanning technology creates a high-density point cloud swiftly, safely and accurately. Every major component of the building within the scanned image is captured as 3D point cloud data. Post-capture the 3D point cloud then has the necessary measurements extracted from it according to our client’s individual specifications, either in 2D or 3D BIM (Building Information Models). At Pinpoint Mapping we provide an affordable and precise 3D laser scanning measuring service.
How 3D Laser Scanning Technology Works
Firstly a laser contained within the 3D scanner rotates at high speed projecting millions of points of invisible light onto surrounding features. Under those circumstances when this light strikes various surfaces it reflects back their individual positions relative to the scanner. Thirdly each reflection of light is digitally captured as a “point” recording its dimensions and spatial relationship with other objects. As the scan takes place, a large number of points, known as a 3D point cloud, are acquired. Simultaneously a high resolution camera incorporated into the scanner acquires images of the scanned area. Finally by combining the imagery and point cloud model this completes an accurate 3D visualisation of the site or structure.
Applications of 3D Laser Scanning
The applications of 3D laser scanning technology are unlimited. For instance, the technology is deployed into civil engineering, architecture, land surveying and heritage building preservation.
To assist with architecture a building can be scanned in order to create a point cloud which serves as the basis for the drawing up of elevations, floor-plans and sections. Furthermore the position of doors, windows, rainwater systems, chimneys etc. can all be featured in the plans. A 3D point cloud can also facilitate the production of a Building Information Model – often referred to by those in the industry as a ‘BIM” (for more info about Bim please refer to our 3D BIM page). With further design work the BIM model can be enhanced by adding a true life render to it making it ideal for 3D visualisations and fly-through simulations.
Due to the complexity of architectural details, historic buildings can often prove difficult to measure with conventional total station survey technology. By laser scanning the exterior façade and the interior of the historic building a 3D point cloud of the entire building is produced. Consequently the point cloud can then be used to aid in the restoration and preservation of the building. In addition to our 3D Scanning service, we can also offer the heritage community our 3D Virtual Tour Service to help promote the interiors of historic buildings online. For more details click here.
Employing 3D laser scanning technology for civil engineering developments can be highly advantageous when measuring complex structures such as bridges, pipelines and road tunnels. Not only are there benefits in terms of cost and time-effectiveness, it also improves site-safety – important as we value safety especially where our surveyors must contend for example with fast moving traffic on projects related to highway developments.
The benefit of 3D laser scanning a site for its topographic surface is thus quite simple: more detailed data is captured. Furthermore scanning ensures there is nothing missed in the Area of Interest. Hence in the event we receive a subsequent request to update plans with additional features, we reopen the point cloud and the new item is drafted into place.
In short, here at Pinpoint Mapping we use 3D laser scanning technology to get the survey on site completed quickly. We can scan any existing as-built structure or site supplying you with a 3D point cloud suitable for accurate measuring. Call us on 01454 550067 and let us offer you a better value proposition.
Contact Us To Get a Quote
If you wish to discuss your next laser scanning 3D survey in Bristol, Bath or anywhere in the Southwest please call us on 01454 550067 today.
Alternatively you can reach out to us by email at firstname.lastname@example.org providing us with an outline of the area that you require laser scanned. We shall respond asap with a no-obligation quotation outlining our time scales and professional fees on your current project.