Jeremy Jones spoke at this National Conference about “The Benefits of 3D Laser Scanning Solutions” in: AST Site Design – Generating As-Built Site Conditions, Dike Management – Competing Volume Analysis and AST Management – Tank Deformation Analysis.
In the industry today, the factors aimed at expediting product to the marketplace and reducing costs to stay competitive are critical. Engaging in 3D laser scanning technologies (also called high definition surveying) allows you to capture very accurate, factual information about assets in a short period of time. Captured data can then be used for analyzing the specifications of your facility. The benefits with laser scanning include keeping your project deadlines consistently on schedule and lowering your risks by ensuring accurate as-built documentation. On a typical project, rework can account for 12 to 15 percent of the total cost. Identifying any conflicts and by exposing any inaccuracies early in the process, before they happen, translate into huge savings for you on rework and change orders.
This is accomplished by using a one or two person crew in the field. Most site facility specifications can be acquired in a single day. The technology allows for millions of points to be precisely measured each second. The end result is a collection of 3D points, commonly called “point clouds” which provides a precise visual representation of the scene. Utilizing the point cloud data from this effort, you can generate 2D and 3D deliverables to include; pipe locations, sizes, supports, foundations, walkways, topography and clearances of any vertical structure on your site. Once you have a complete and accurate assessment of your site you can use the data for additional design engineering, competing volume analysis of dikes and tank deformation just to name a few possibilities. The speed and precision of the data is the greatest differentiator to any other technology currently on the market.