[Article]: Professional Scanning Laser in Architecture and Beyond

Modern construction technology means digitalization. Architects use computers all the time. But that sometimes requires additional tools. A scanning laser is a good example. In this article, we will take a closer look at it.

How does a scanning laser work?

Simply put, 3D laser scanning is a technology that gathers precise data from the surroundings. The light moves through a certain area, working as a probe. It collects information about any object, its position and dimensions. The data is sent to the computer at once. There, it is processed in order to generate a 3D visualization of the area.

Scanning laser technology is very accurate. The tool can pick up small details like cracks on the surface or an old nail left in the wall. But that depends on particular needs, though. Usually, terrestrial scanning doesn’t have to be that precise. In most cases, it is tuned just enough to obtain an image of spacious and large buildings.

In addition to terrestrial scanning, there is an airborne scanning method (ALS) available to professionals. It analyzes large spaces from above. A whole block of buildings can be measured this way. The same can be said about a valley in the mountains, for example. The idea is basically the same, but the scanning tool is placed on a moving drone instead of a stationary platform.

Advantages of professional 3D measurement:

Both Airborne Laser Scanning equipment and terrestrial methods deliver details as well as time. This technology works really quickly in comparison to a group of engineers conducting their measurements manually. That means a single scanning laser operator can cover more ground with much less effort. A team of such specialists is therefore incredibly valuable.

Scanning technology allows almost immediate acquisition of data from small spaces. Large objects can be visualized in just a few hours. Thanks to the selection of appropriate equipment, the whole process can cover even 1,000,000 points per second.

Reduction of time-consuming processes in business is always welcomed, is it not? The same refers to accuracy. In the case of a pro scanning laser, data precision is unequalled by any man. That brings us to the human error factor. It is unlikely that machines will miss some crucial details in the field. Human eyes are known to do just the opposite. This is important, especially during the analysis of defects in buildings.

Compatibility – the obtained spatial measurements can be transferred to most professional programs like CAD. Few separate firms can combine forces because of this feature. Architectural scanning lasers are also quite compact. They can be transported with an ease. The installation in the field isn’t complicated either.

It is also worth mentioning that these tools are quite safe. Both scanned objects and device operators aren’t exposed to any harm. The entire scanning process is non-invasive. It doesn’t leave any traces on the surface. The best machines are equipped with a class I laser, mind you. It is completely safe for the human eye.

Other applications of industrial scanning lasers:

Architectural advantages of laser scanning tech seem obvious. They improve construction and renovation of buildings. But the application of lasers goes deeper than that. Art teams can use scanning tools to create a 3D model of an existing location, which is later depicted in a horror movie. Archeologists, on the other hand, benefit from a scanning laser in ancient tombs as well as long forgotten settlements in the dessert. Professional architects often help with such endeavors.

Image Attribution:

https://pixabay.com/photos/building-facade-architecture-7242751/