Leveraging Laser Scanning in the Construction Industry

Laser scanning is becoming more popular in the construction industry, offering an effective and precise approach to evaluating infrastructure. This approach can help minimize rework, eliminate unnecessary processes and streamline project timelines with accessibility and accuracy.

Laser scanning can help construction teams catch errors that would otherwise need rework and can enhance the management, design and renovation phases. Here, you can learn more about laser scanners in the construction industry, including the best ones to use for your projects and how you can leverage this technology to transform your business.

What is Laser Scanning in the Construction Industry?

The laser scanning process captures, maps and displays the geometry of current infrastructure and existing conditions. You can save, process and upload this scan with the appropriate coordinates to import the data into modeling software. This process provides highly accurate positional information on all building assets that you can use to improve project designs for upkeep and new construction.

Laser scanning is more cost-effective, faster and more precise than traditional survey measurements, empowering construction companies to work more efficiently. You can use laser scanning to aid in several processes, including:

• Minimize errors in design: This technology provides an excellent foundation for design phases, especially for renovations or additions. You can use laser scanners to control your processes early, gathering information quickly and applying it to your project. Using scanners can minimize errors, preventing construction teams from creating flaws they would need to address later in the construction process. Additionally, preventing these errors can reduce the need for change orders, high spending or delays associated with fixing those issues.
• Construction communication: Laser scanning can benefit construction coordination by preventing conflicts between existing electrical, plumbing, HVAC and similar systems. You can also leverage this technology to document project milestones such as wall/ceiling close-in, delegate work and reduce change orders. In the building industry, laser scanning can also help you quickly identify and address existing problems and make it easy to document any mistakes by comparing work in place to the designed conditions.
• Renovations and retrofit: 3D scanners can produce as-built records that facility managers and owners can use to guide repairs, maintenance, demolitions and extensions. If implemented properly, this technology can accurately locate items above the ceiling and inside walls, allowing architects and other teams to use them for easier renovations.

At BuildPoint SouthEast, you can find superior technology, best-in-class service and support to help you navigate your construction projects. We leverage the latest technology, including laser scanners, to help construction businesses excel by increasing accuracy, improving safety and creating efficient layouts. Our 3D scanning solutions simplify complex projects, allowing you to keep moving forward.

Understanding Laser Scanning Basics

Laser scanners can have a significant impact on construction teams. Understanding this technology is crucial for streamlining your processes and selecting the right equipment to meet your needs. Learn more about this technology and how you can leverage it.

What Are 3D Laser Scanners?

3D laser scanners are devices that direct laser beams to specific regions with a mirror. The device disperses the laser at precise angles and reflects it to the scanner. This equipment lets users quickly capture geospatially relevant information on a construction project. 3D scanning is a non-destructive way to obtain measurements, and you can rely on this technique for tight spaces as well. You can capture a point cloud of data and turn it into a 3D model, which you can use to design or coordinate the construction process.

Laser Scanning Benefits

Laser scanning technology continues to grow in construction for good reason. Those in the construction industry can experience benefits, including:

• Increased cost savings: Construction teams can avoid costly errors and rework by using laser scanners. This technology enhances project visibility, saving teams time and money on unnecessary processes, resources and change orders. This technology can complete tasks within a fraction of the time compared to manual processes, empowering more intricate workflows and boosting project profitability.
• Obtaining real-time information: You can gather data instantly with laser scanners. This information is highly accurate and precise, allowing you to streamline processes and increase productivity while reducing errors and making informed decisions.
• Promoting safety: Construction sites can be dangerous, occasionally leading to severe or fatal consequences. 3D scanners allow you to promote team safety by reducing the need for unsafe tasks. These devices can gather data from a distance and in hard-to-reach places, protecting your team from potentially hazardous tasks. Additionally, laser scanning is not invasive, meaning you can collect data without disturbing artifacts or historic sites.
• Reducing manual work: Manual tasks can be time-consuming and costly. Thankfully, laser scanning can reduce human workloads while enhancing accuracy, providing benefits twofold. These devices can minimize the trips a team must make to the project site, allowing team members to spend time on more critical tasks.
• Enhancing quality and efficiency: One of the most significant benefits of laser scanning is the improved quality and precision it provides. This technology empowers teams to detail and plan projects in a whole new way, making it easier to avoid or identify potential errors and streamline the overall process.

3D Laser Scanning Applications in Construction

The many benefits of laser scanners make this technology suitable for various applications. In the construction industry, teams can leverage these devices to accomplish the following:

• Assessing the levelness of concrete placement
• Evaluating the verticality of facades and walls
• Converting data into as-built models of existing structures (digital twins)
• Providing maintenance and management guidelines for efficient operation
• Comparing models for discrepancies between design and actual construction
• Capturing architectural textures and images necessary for replication and restoration
• Surveying the construction site for site analysis, accurate measurements and topographic mapping
• Constructing immersive virtual tours for documentation, design reviews and enhanced decision making
• Creating virtual replicas of structures and buildings to monitor real-time project status, make informed decisions and assess performance

Best Laser Scanners for Construction

Choosing the best laser scanner involves understanding your project needs and what each device can accomplish. Consider factors like device accuracy, resolution, data visualization, cost and versatility. You can find many types of scanner configurations, features, printing variations and other crucial elements, making it essential to evaluate what you need and what your device can accomplish.

The Trimble X9

The Trimble X9 is our top choice for laser scanning in construction because it's fast, easy to use, and reliable. It helps you capture accurate measurements quickly, making your job easier and more efficient.

Here's why we love it:

• Fast and efficient: Scans up to 1 million points per second, so you spend less time scanning and get more detailed data
• Easy to use: Works with simple software that helps you manage and check your projects on the go. You can control it with a tablet, phone, or just one button
• Reliable: It auto-calibrates and self-levels to ensure precise measurements every time. Built to handle tough conditions with an IP55 rating and a wide temperature range
• Portable: Lightweight and comes with a backpack for easy carrying around the site

With the Trimble X9, you'll get accurate, high-quality data quickly, making it perfect for any construction project.

If you need assistance integrating laser scanning technology, rely on the professionals. BuildingPoint SouthEast has years of experience in the industry, and our technology makes us the partner you need for these applications. Connect with our team for help selecting the suitable model for your project needs. 

Integrate Laser Scanning Technology with BuildingPoint SouthEast

In summary, laser scanning enhances construction by increasing accuracy, improving safety, and reducing project costs. When you need reliable and fast data collection, laser scanning is the best solution. These devices can provide valuable insights that guide decision-making and aid throughout project life cycles. 

With BuildingPoint SouthEast, you can find the innovative technology you need to take construction projects to the next level. Our solutions offer a wide range of features to streamline processes and deliver increased accuracy and quality. Using our technology, you can transform your processes and enhance your business. Ready to get started with the best laser scanner and technology solutions? Request a quote to see what our solutions can do for you.