All the leading building envelope consultants use advanced tools to provide more accurate results quickly and cost effectively in building condition assessment. In these advanced tools,3D Laser scanning or LiDAR (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) is important for its precision, efficiency and versatility.
Here we are discussing the selection of 3D Laser Scanners or LiDAR Scanners and its preparation of conditions surveys for residential and commercial hospitality buildings, to provide a comprehensive and detailed evaluation of the buildings’ current condition and prepare the documents as listed below in the article.
WHAT IS LiDAR SCANNING AND HOW IT WORKS?
Simply, we can say that LiDAR laser scanning is a remote scanning methodology for spatial analysis using laser light to densely sample the surface of an object and subsequently provide a detailed 3D Model. Accuracy of this remote sensing LiDAR Scanning methodology is 1/8”to ¼” for the thorough analysis of building conditions and its evaluation. Always keep in mind that a laser cannot pass through building walls to identify the defects inside. Beyond the laser measurement accuracy,3D Scanning technology is instrumental in situations beyond the reach of drones or can say indoor areas.3D Laser scanning only provides insights into the visible external conditions of areas.
Laser scanner mounted on a tripod and aligned positioning of the device around the structure for 360° coverage. Laser pulses pass through different surface areas of an object and bounce back. After completing this cycle, captured reflections create a “point cloud” and detailed 3D Model by building scanning.
APPLICATIONS OF 3D LASER SCANNING IN BUILDING RENOVATION AND RESTORATION
All items included in the survey are to be quantified and located specifically so that they can form a clear and unambiguous schedule of repair and renovation works that will be incorporated into the final works package for the renovation contractor. All items should also include recommendations for repairs, maintenance, or further investigations where required.
Inspection and evaluation of the conditions of the structural elements of the buildings including the reinforced concrete structure, slabs, columns, beams, walls, floors, roofs.
This is to be a detailed visual inspection including above ceilings and below floor finishes (carpets etc) however, should any additional structural testing be required based upon the visual survey, then the building surveying consultant shall recommend specific additional non-destructive testing as a part of their final report with relevant photos and a written justification.
BENEFITS OF LiDAR SCANNING IN BUILDING INTEGRITY SURVEY?
Ability to perform large areas of building survey and building scanning quickly and delivering data in a min. Down time is the main advantage of LiDAR 3D Scanning. LiDAR Scanning is a ground based remote scanning method for comprehensive vertical scanning, and it is not like drone survey. LiDAR Scanning presents a paradigm shift in how we do the structural detailing by different levels of detail (LOD). In building restoration and planning, embracing LiDAR laser scanning gives the difference between prevention and costly repairs of guesswork and precision.
Contact EIWAA for further building assessment, periodic health check and monitoring of building, building restoration, building renovation and building integrity study for structural assessment and remaining service life evaluations.