Modern technology has developed an enormous pace in recent years and it is the same in measurement of large objects, buildings or equipment.

Compare to traditional measurement methods which can focus a number of points per hour, it is possible to target several million points per minute by new technology. The laser scanner is an example of such a device. The principle is similar to scanning sonar in submarines but laser beam is transmitted into space instead of the sound, which is reflected from the surrounding objects back into the appliance. It is possible in this way to create a spatial panorama image within a few minutes that can be instantly analyzed.

Laser scanning in forensic investigations

Murder, traffic accidents or ruined buildings are fields where it is possible to use laser scanner for detailed documentation of the incriminated places. Evidence obtained by laser scanning is more convincing to the courts or insurance company than only a single photo. 3D digital model also helps investigators to analyze and simulate what happened in the accident.

Preservation of cultural heritage

This technology is a supportive tool in the conservation and restoration works with historic buildings, castles and ruins of castles. It is one of the last possibilities to capture the existing state of monuments for future generations, in some cases only as virtual models on the Internet. The scanning of the Lietava Castle for the civic association, which is involved in the preservation, can be a sample. 

Designing in the industry

Many businesses that have decided to invest in the development of new technologies found out that the lack of the technical documentation restricts their plans and projects. Here is the potential of laser scanning which quickly, efficiently and with high-precision captures current state of buildings, steel structures, utilities, machines and equipment "as-built", i.e. in the condition they really are. 

Processing of results

Laser scanning shortens measuring itself in terrain about 98%. The rest of the work is done on the computer where collected data are analyzed or transformed into CAD systems in most cases. Results are layouts, sections, isometry, building facades and especially 3D models, since nowadays design is already proceeding in 3D.   

In this way the technical documentation for designers, planners and architects is created, which is currently unique in that it contains the existing state of buildings, including deflections, deformations and possible restrictions, ensuring high added value and rapid return of investments. 

The article was published on 10.11.2011 on the news portal Pluska.sk