In 1977, the blockbuster film Star Wars debuted, and the idea of lasers as a tool was instantly implanted into the minds of every generation since, replacing laser beam eyes that kids in the 50s once dreamed of. While the lasers in Star Wars were a far cry away from what lasers in the actual world were capable of or were being used for, what we do have is still changing the game for many different industries. We have amazing technologies that are only possible thanks to the development of lasers. 3D laser scanning is a fine example, and has emerged as a powerful tool with significant environmental benefits, particularly in utility projects. But what do 3D laser scanners do? How does 3D laser scanning contribute to environmental sustainability?
An Introduction to 3D Laser Scanning
3D laser scanning, also known as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), is a remote sensing technology that captures precise three-dimensional data of objects and environments using laser light. It operates on the principle of measuring the time it takes for laser pulses to reflect off surfaces, creating detailed point clouds that accurately represent the shape and characteristics of scanned objects. Originally developed for aerospace and military applications, 3D laser scanning has found widespread use in civil engineering, architecture, and facility management due to its high levels of accuracy and efficiency.
3D laser scanning is growing in popularity, and according to some sources, the popularity of the technology has grown by 57% in the construction industry. 3D laser scanning isn’t a new technology, but it has taken from its market entrance in the 90s until somewhat recently to gain greater popularity. The technology was once relatively slow and limited by storage capacity and processor speeds. However, as with any technology, advancements have allowed for some outstanding advancements. Costs have decreased, and the technology is better than ever before. 3D laser scanning is now less of a futuristic nice-to-have tool, and is becoming a project staple for many different industries. Laser scanning can provide benefits including:
- A higher level of detail in visualizations, especially when compared to photos or drawings
- Ability to easily update as-built documentation after construction or other projects is complete
- Convenient integration into 3D modeling software. GPRS’ in-house mapping and modeling team can provide visualizations in a variety of formats
- Reduced physical access requirements for measurement of inaccessible areas
And More!
GPRS and 3D Laser Scanning
GPRS is committed to providing the most accurate and reliable results, whether for utility management, construction, or some other reason. Our 3D laser scanning services can provide the comprehensive look at your project that you need most. In many instances, they can even capture utility and video pipe inspection mark-outs to create CAD drawings or 3D BIM models that integrate your subsurface features with your structural features. Our laser scanning services provide numerous benefits, such as:
Clash Detection
3D laser scans have the ability to capture two million data points per second and measure difficult to reach areas with 2-4mm accuracy to find & avoid clashes before they happen.
Point Clouds
Captured 3D data can be used to create a point cloud that technicians can use to create unique 2D CAD drawings & 3D BIM models. Our Mapping & Modeling Team is able to do this for you.
2D CAD Drawings
GPRS’ Mapping & Modeling Team can translate 3D laser data into 2D CAD drawings that provide your team with up-to-date plan views & record drawings.
As Built Creation
Capture existing condition as-builts with 2-4 mm accuracy to plan, assess progress, and update record drawings for reference.
BIM Modeling / Digital Twin
3D reality capture allows for comprehensive 3D BIM models that can integrate above and below ground features for a digital twin of your facility or project to provide an accurate as-built record.
Virtual Design & Construction
Your 3D point cloud data can be utilized by our in-house design team to create a digital twin of your facility to aid in planning, prefabrication & construction.
Mitigate Risk
GPRS 3D Laser Scanning services can capture our 99.8%+ accurate concrete scanning markouts, with 2-4mm accuracy to create a 3D BIM model that includes the of the interior of your concrete slabs, including PT cables, rebar, conduit, and other embedments, so you can safely cut, core, drill, or anchor with confidence.
See Your Site
Assess existing structural conditions, walk your team or stakeholders through your project or entire facility, take rough measurements for planning, design, or maintenance, and capture floor plans and construction progress with 3D photogrammetry or laser scanning.
GPRS also offers a suite of 3D laser scanning & photogrammetry solutions to match any need:
Accurate existing conditions reporting via a 3D virtual tour so you can walk your team through your site to streamline communications and collaboration without excess travel and expense.
EnvirCapture construction progress, from pre-pour concrete reinforcements to MEP installs, and more to provide accurate timelines and key milestone completions for stakeholders & your team.
Turn our 3D photogrammetry virtual tour into an accurate plan view of your project for design, risk mitigation, and emergency planning.
Accurate existing condition as-builts with 2D plan views of your above and below ground infrastructure to break down information bottlenecks with comprehensive, layered data.
3D Laser Scanning and Environmental Benefits
Minimizing Environmental Disturbance
Traditional construction methods often involve extensive excavation and disturbances. This method often leads to habitat loss, soil erosion, and disruption of natural ecosystems. On the flip side, 3D laser scanning, when paired with ground penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic (EM) locating, and video pipe inspection (VPI) allows for non-invasive data collection and useable 2 and 3D objects. It minimizes ground disturbance by capturing detailed information without any need for excavation. This capability is particularly beneficial in sensitive environmental areas where preservation of natural habitats is crucial.
Optimizing Resource Efficiency
Efficient resource management is critical for sustainable development. 3D laser scanning improves resource efficiency in facility or construction projects by:
Reducing Material Waste: The accurate data collected from laser scanning helps optimize material quantities required for construction and maintenance activities, minimizing surplus and waste. GPRS offers possibly the highest accuracy rating on the market, providing 2-4mm 3D laser accuracy, proven across countless jobs nationwide.
Streamlining Logistics: Precise spatial information facilitates better planning and coordination of project details. This helps to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation.
Enhancing Project Planning and Design
Planning and design phases heavily influence project outcomes and environmental impacts. 3D laser scanning enhances these phases by:
Accurate As-Built Documentation: Capturing detailed as-built conditions of existing structural and subsurface infrastructure ensures precise design and planning of upgrades or expansions, minimizing rework and resource-intensive corrections. GPRS’ team has the skills to provide stunning as-builts, which can be delivered via our exclusive and easy to use platform, SiteMap® (patent pending), powered by GPRS.
Simulation and Visualization: Advanced software tools enable stakeholders to visualize proposed designs in the context of existing conditions, fostering informed decision-making and reducing the likelihood of environmental conflicts. SiteMap® offers enhanced visualization, with your Map View and Digital Plan Room, users are able to view and interact with their data like never before. GPRS’ 99.8% subsurface visualization accuracy, aggregated to provide an instant snapshot – past, present & future – secured in one centralized, accessible database.
Facilitating Environmental Monitoring and Compliance
Regulatory compliance and environmental monitoring are integral to sustainable project success. 3D laser scanning supports these efforts by:
Monitoring Changes: Regular scanning sessions allow for the monitoring of structural changes over time, as well as capturing land use alterations.
Ensuring Accuracy: Accurate spatial data aids in compliance reporting by providing verifiable documentation of project activities and environmental impacts, ensuring adherence to environmental regulations and standards.
Promoting Safety and Risk Mitigation
Environmental conservation and management includes ensuring the safety of workers, stakeholders, and the surrounding community. 3D laser scanning contributes to safety and risk mitigation by:
Identifying Hazards: Detecting potential safety hazards and environmental risks through detailed site assessments and analysis of point cloud data.
Optimizing Emergency Response: Providing emergency responders with accurate, up-to-date information on site conditions to facilitate prompt and effective responses to environmental incidents or natural disasters.
3D laser scanning may not be the space-age technology once dreamed of, but it’s pretty close. With 3D laser scanning, we can create amazing, accurate visuals almost out of thin air. Instead of being used for destruction, lasers are being used to help manage our utilities and our environment, which helps conserve energy, resources, and even money. GPRS provides 3D laser scanning services to a wide variety of industries, from construction to utility and facility management. There’s always a place for amazing technology, a dedicated team of professionals, and accuracy. SiteMap® takes the data that GPRS collects and turns it into aggregated, easy to read, annotated maps, and more. View the subsurface simply and see what you’ve been missing.
GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World for customers nationwide. What can we help you visualize?
