Lasers are a mainstream aspect of life. We find them useful in Sci-Fi movies and industrial activities. Although the technology was a bit slow in hitting the construction industry, laser scanning is becoming popular on most construction sites worldwide. Before we discuss the basics of the technology, we need to know its exact meaning.
What is Laser Scanning?
Laser scanning is a way of using lasers to map out a location with high precision. It is also called HDS (high-definition surveying). On construction sites, the technology helps to capture data that has a lot of details. It also provides accurate information on every corner of the site.
The captured details are called “point cloud”, which is a database that connects points using a three-dimensional coordinate system. Therefore, you will typically find the name of this technology as a 3D laser scanning.
We can spend a long time discussing point cloud extensively as well as how it benefits us. But the important point to note is that surveyors can get remarkably accurate digital information of a space or object pertaining to the project.
Things to Consider Before Using Laser Services
Before you start any construction project, it is good to know what is obtainable in the industry. The more you know, the fewer surprises you will encounter when the work starts. To ensure you get more benefits from using laser scanning services, keep the following points in mind:
1. The Quality of the Data After Capturing
When a map does not have quality data, it is as good as a beautiful picture. 3D laser technique is a high-precision process that can capture millions of points. Modern scanners can accurately scan within 4mm, which makes the maps they generate particularly useful for the purpose of planning.
2. The Availability of the Data
Depending on who is offering the scanning services, you can acquire data while on air or on land. When you scan in a helicopter or using drones, you can quickly complete the task. This is because drones can fly over four hundred acres each hour.
They travel fast compared to surveyors on foot. They can also fly over terrains that are rough and the data will not be affected. Therefore, the use of an ariel scan ensures you get the data quickly. Another benefit is that you do not have to go to the site since you can operate the drone remotely.
3. The Usefulness of the Data
Getting your data really quick is not what matters. What we want to know is if the data came in a format that you can use. Nowadays, topographic maps come as less complex PDF files.
They may not be very flexible, but they are better than collecting several gigabytes of files that were captured when mapping. You may want to visit this website to know more about topographic maps.
The point clouds that were captured need to be converted into different 3D models like digital elevations. The use of analytical software like GIS allows you to work using the numbers whereas virtual reality technologies allow you to literally walk through each mapped environment.
Furthermore, being able to access the scan result at any hour of the day, anywhere, and on different devices is extremely important. You or your workers may be in different locations and in need of the same data. However, cloud storage helps everyone to access the data at the same time.
If the scan is always available, you can use it at your own convenience. It can help you to adjust previous plans based on the current situation. That way, you won’t be locked into making early decisions that may result in expensive delays while sorting out an issue.
4. The Experience of the Surveyor
The boom in the oil sector led to an increase in surveyors. However, not all of them know how to do the job. You need an experienced surveyor because you will make important decisions based on the map output. Therefore, ensure that the company has a track record of success using current technology.
5. The Cost of Data Capturing
When making decisions on which service to choose, the cost is usually a major determinant. You want data but not in an outrageously expensive way. Generally, surveys done with drones are cheaper, safer, and faster than those done on foot.
Also, remember that flexible data has more value than rigid ones. So, a high up-front price may be cost-effective from a long-term perspective. You may want to check out https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/laser-scanning to know more about laser scanning.
Conclusion
An accurate map ensures you make better, cost-effective arrangements for your construction project. It also documents the infrastructural legalities. So, before you start your project, ensure the laser scanning service you choose can deliver on the job using current techniques and equipment.
