3D Geometry Collection & Digital Model Construction
In structural engineering, the use of 3D models has become indispensable across various applications. One primary application involves employing 3D structural models for structural analysis and evaluation. Additionally, these 3D models are useful for investigating structural geometric anomalies, enabling professionals to identify irregularities or deviations in the structure’s form. Moreover, the collection of structural condition data and damage mapping is much more efficient than the conventional approach through the use of 3D data collection.
To construct a 3D digital model from existing structures, two major techniques are commonly employed: LiDAR and photogrammetry. The LiDAR technique employs equipment that emits laser class 1, ensuring safety for the human eye. The laser light’s travel time is then used to calculate the coordinates of points, resulting in the generation of hundreds of thousands of 3D point coordinates per second during scanning. This wealth of data allows for the visualization of surface on structures and other objects. Conversely, photogrammetry takes a different approach, constructing 3D point cloud data from a series of images. Algorithms calculate the 3D positions and shooting directions of cameras, subsequently generating a 3D point cloud that represents the geometry of the structure. These techniques collectively empower structural engineers with advanced tools to accurately assess, analyze, and model structures in three dimensions.
