Above Water 3-D Laser Scanning

3-D laser scanning, also known as high definition surveying, is a non-intrusive means of rapidly collecting detailed and accurate as-built data. This technology provides scanning of a structure or area to create a complete raw data set in the form of a 3-D image made up of millions of points of data, called a “3-D point cloud.” Every two points of the 3-D point cloud provide measurements in AutoCAD to within 6 mm accuracy. The device rapidly captures high density survey quality data, and provides more accurate and more detailed as-built drawings than information obtained from manual measurements and outdated or incomplete previous as-built drawings.

The benefit is extremely accurate CAD plans, sections and elevations, quickly and accurately produced, while virtually eliminating costly return visits to the site for additional information, and increasing the safety of the data capture since all information can be gathered safely from the ground. Collins employed this technology in a project for Waterways Ireland that included bridge inventory, condition assessment, 3-D laser scanning and database development services in support of the multi-national agency’s development of a Bridge Management System. AutoCAD drawings representing each structure were developed from the scans of 342 bridges owned by Waterways Ireland.