Laser Scanning Surveys

Total Surveys have recently launched the additional service of carrying out Laser Scanning Surveys using the latest Leica ScanStation 2 laser scanning instrument. The company is now able to carry out High Definition Surveying, using this very fast pulsed laser system.

 

The philosophy of Total Surveys is to invest in the latest technology, to maximise efficiency & productivity, and to produce the best possible drawings & data for our clients.

 

Our surveyors have considerable experience of surveying detailed ornamental building façades, and complex internal structures; particularly of historic buildings, (examples are available in our Document Download Centre).

 

        

(The above video is derived from actual Laser Scan point cloud data, and is not a composite of photographs)             

The company has taken advantage of the latest Laser Scanning technology, which is of considerable help when carrying out architectural surveys. However in addition to this, this equipment has numerous other possible applications where 3D position / points need to be recorded, for example; archaeological surveys, complex mechanical installations, GIS / Asset Management, and general site topography.

 

The Leica ScanStation 2, can produce a 360° three dimensional “point-cloud” of survey information, which is of particular assistance when capturing data in areas of intricate detail. The system also incorporates a high resolution digital camera.

 

Using specialist “Cyclone” software, the data can be used to produce rendered 3D “models”, and areas can be selected as required for detailed drawing production. One advantage of using this equipment, is that the area to be surveyed can be comprehensively scanned whilst on-site, and the data can then be stored in an “Asset Database”; with only the immediate requirements being developed into finished drawings. Further areas can be processed into drawings as and when required, at a later date without the need for a further site visit, (assuming the area in question remains unchanged on site; otherwise a site update would be required).

 

This could be of particular interest to clients with a large portfolio of sites, where a database of assets is required. But, rather than surveying all the sites in detail at once, (which would be time consuming and costly), the initial task of scanning the sites could be undertaken; with specific elements developed into drawings as and when required.

Similarly, if for example, an historic building was being restored / renovated, the whole building could be scanned, and the “point cloud” stored in a database for later use. Then as specific areas of interest were identified, these areas could be developed into floor plans, elevation, or section drawings, as required. This could be helpful with regard to project costings and budget.

 

Typically, traditional linework drawings in AutoCAD DWG or DXF format are provided, although other export options are also available.

The “point cloud” could also be used for feasibility studies and design, and facilitate checks for possible conflicts or obstructions, in 3D.

The equipment is also useful in capturing a large amount of data quickly, (up to 50,000 pts/sec). This is of benefit where a geospatial record is required, but where available site access time is limited. One recent example, was the laser scanning of sea defences; which was carried out in the time available between tides.

 

There are many potential applications for laser scanning equipment. If you would like further information, or feel we can help you with this service, please contact us.

Recently, our surveyors scanned a central courtyard area of a building, for a specialist company who will design & manufacture off-site, a steelwork structure; which will be assembled on-site to extend the existing floors of the building. The photograph & point-cloud image below, illustrate the complex nature of the area in question; which would have been considerably more difficult to survey traditionally.