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3D Laser Scanning is state of the art measurement technology used to create highly detailed and extremely accurate 3D models. Scanning measures objects from as small as a couple of millimeters to as large as entire city blocks. O'Dell Engineering utilizes this technology to precisely measure many different kinds of projects for our clients including building interiors and exteriors, bridges, roads and construction sites.

Surveying at the Speed of Light
The power of 3D Laser Scanning is the extreme accuracy and quantity of data. While traditional precision measuring techniques require taking measurements one at a time, a 3D scanner can measure up to 1,000,000 3D points per second with up to 2mm accuracy! The laser scanner works by passing a laser beam over the object being measured, creating a dimensionally accurate, digital copy of the object in mere moments.

BIM
3D Laser Scanning data was made for BIM. BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is the technology of the future being used on today's complex construction projects. Scanning is a huge benefit to the BIM process serving as the foundation for renovation, addition or tenant improvement project or as an effective means to compare ongoing work to the design model during construction. This significantly reduces costly RFI's, mistakes and rework.

Enhanced As-Builts
3D Laser Scanning produces as-builts like no other technology. The entire physical reality of a project is measured at an exact moment in time. Some as-built applications include:

• Laser scanning as-builts show details previously unavailable including the precise locations of mechanical systems inside of walls and above ceilings and rebar inside of concrete slabs.
• Concrete floor flatness surveys that go beyond traditional Floor Flatness(FF) and Floor Levelness(FL) numbers, showing the true condition of the floor and identifying high and low points with 1/8" accuracy.
• Heritage preservation of historic buildings including detailed information such as 3D models of trim and moldings.

How Do I Use Laser Scanning Data

Laser scanning data is extremely easy to use. You do not need to be a 3D expert to utilize this technology on your projects. All of the measurements or 3D points collected are combined into a single "point cloud" containing all of the information measured in the field. O'Dell Engineering technicians use specialized software to extract 2D or 3D CAD objects from the point cloud that are compatible with any CAD package. Scan data is used to create many exhibits and CAD drawings including: traditional 2D plans, 3D models, renderings, animations, etc. 3D laser scanning data can even be viewed using your internet browser. Click here for more information.

Who Uses Laser Scanning

The applications of laser scanning are virtually unlimited. As measurement experts, we have helped our clients achieve excellent results on a variety of projects.

• Contractors: Contractors use laser scanning to improve efficiency and protect themselves from potential liability. Applications include detailed as-builts before or after construction, detailed inspections including structural steel and enhanced concrete flatness testing, and as key component of the BIM process allowing verification of ongoing work with design models and clash detection between the model and real world conditions.
• Architects: Architects benefit from laser scanning to prepare more accurate and buildable designs. Applications include as-builts for an accurate foundation for BIM and design documents, tenant improvement projects, historical preservation and real world project visualizations.
• Engineers: All engineering disciplines benefit from accurate data on existing conditions. Whether a civil engineer looking at detailed grading to ensure ADA compliance or a mechanical engineer integrating new systems into a cluttered existing environment, 3D laser scanning allows professionals to create better designs that fit existing conditions perfectly minimizing costly change orders, field fabrication and rework.
• Owner/Operators: Many plant facilities lack accurate as built information. 3D laser scanning allows owner/operators to manage their facilities more effectively. Accurate as-builts assist personnel with maintenance, reconfiguration and addition or removal of equipment. Scanning allows equipment removal paths to examined ahead of time to minimize conflicts and last minute changes in the field. In addition, complex equipment can be modeled in 3D so newly fabricated piping will connect in the field without hassles or adjustments.
• Manufacturers & Fabricators: Prefabricating equipment, piping, and architectural systems can result in substantial savings in manufacturing costs. Unfortunately, much of this savings can be lost if significant adjustments are required when installing in the field. 3D laser scanning allows manufacturers and fabricators to work with virtual copies of real life conditions ensuring prefabricated parts fit with the existing environment perfectly.