When it comes to 3D building scanning, every construction professional and client benefits from learning more about it. The demand for laser scanning is increasing in the construction industry and is expected to grow by $10 billion by 2024. Here’s a closer look from our Optim Project Management professionals at this emerging technology.

3D scanning is the process of analyzing an object from the real world, to collect all the data in order to recreate its shape and appearance, digitally. Thanks to this process, the object can become a 3D model, which consists of a polygon mesh or point cloud of geometric samples on the surface of the subject.  These points can then be used to extrapolate the shape of the subject (a process called reconstruction).

• Benefits of laser scanning with Optim Project Management

In the competitive world today, time is money. Using our 3D laser scanner has numerous benefits which contribute to accuracy and efficiency for all stakeholders involved.

Optim Project Management provides integrated services during all phases of design: site survey, fire approval, tender documentation, execution design, as built and technical assistance during construction period, as well as general design services for life and safety systems: back-up power supply, smoke exhaust, emergency lighting, fire detection & firefighting installations, including architecture. 3D building scanning captures a very high level of detail, and this helps create a permanent as-built record for both owners and facility managers. It is valuable in building operations, renovations and future building additions and also a versatile money-saving tool for civil and industrial projects, urbanism or historic monuments.

Our 3D scanning offers immediate information: scans are performed and accessed immediately, thereby improving operations, productivity and reducing rework. Quality and accuracy are improved: because our laser scanning is accurate and allows construction teams to take planning and detail to a whole other level on site. It cuts costs: being much faster than conventional methods of project mapping. The data scans created empower teams to develop more detailed workflows. And any cost savings that project teams can produce increase profitability on a project. In fact, some estimate that using the technology versus conventional 2D scanning on a project can demonstrate savings of up to 50%, with the most significant gains coming from an accelerated timeline. Because 3D laser scanning helps improve coordination and collaboration on a jobsite, this leads to faster and better overall decision-making. Better collaboration enhances communication, improves project team relationships and helps facilitate the end goal of creating a great project.

3D laser scanning isn’t new technology at all. In fact, the technology’s roots date back to the 1960s. It wasn’t until the 1990s that it began being utilized for engineering and design purposes. In fact, the technology followed a similar path to adoption as GPS (global positioning systems). Once deemed a luxury, GPS is now found and used in millions of applications across a variety of markets. Today, laser scanning has become commonplace in a similar manner, now moving into a variety of markets, including construction.