Our Technology

3D Scanning - Lidar

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) scanning is a remote sensing technology that uses light pulses to measure distances and create detailed 3D representations of objects or environments. Lidar scanners emit a laser beam and then measure the time it takes for the laser to bounce back from the target, which can be a building, terrain, vegetation, or other objects. By analyzing the reflected light, the scanner can create a high-resolution 3D point cloud, which is a digital representation of the target's surface.

Lidar scanning has a wide range of applications, including mapping and surveying, autonomous vehicles, forestry management, and archaeological research. It is particularly useful in areas where traditional surveying methods are difficult or impossible to use, such as dense forests, urban environments, or areas with challenging terrain. Lidar scanning has revolutionized many industries by providing accurate and precise data in a fast and efficient way.

BIM:

BIM stands for Building Information Modeling, which is a digital representation of a building or infrastructure project that incorporates all relevant data about its design, construction, and maintenance. BIM is a collaborative approach that involves multiple stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and owners, to work together in a virtual environment to create a comprehensive and detailed 3D model of a building.

BIM software allows users to create a digital model that includes information about the physical and functional characteristics of a building, such as the dimensions, materials, systems, and equipment. This information can be used to simulate how a building will perform during its lifecycle, including energy efficiency, structural integrity, and maintenance requirements.

BIM is widely used in the construction industry because it helps to improve project efficiency, reduce errors and rework, and enhance communication and collaboration among stakeholders. BIM allows stakeholders to visualize the building and identify potential issues or conflicts before construction begins, which can save time and money. BIM can also improve the accuracy and reliability of cost estimates, schedules, and project delivery.

Total Stations:

Total stations are electronic optical instruments used in the surveying and construction industries to measure distances, angles, and elevations. They typically use a combination of technologies to accomplish this, including:

Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM): Total stations use EDM to measure distances between the instrument and a reflector mounted on a target, such as a surveying prism. This is typically done using either a phase-shift or time-of-flight measurement technique.
Angular measurement: Total stations use a variety of techniques to measure angles, including optical encoders, magnetic encoders, and inclinometers. Some total stations can also measure vertical and horizontal angles simultaneously.
Electronic data storage: Total stations typically have built-in memory and the ability to store measurement data electronically. This can be used to facilitate data analysis and processing, as well as to generate reports and maps.
Communication technology: Many modern total stations are equipped with Bluetooth or other wireless communication technology, which can be used to transmit data to a computer or other device for real-time processing and analysis.
Onboard software: Total stations typically have onboard software that provides users with a variety of measurement and calculation functions, such as distance, angle, and area calculations. Some total stations also have advanced features, such as automatic target recognition and tracking, that can help to improve measurement accuracy and efficiency.

Point Cloud File Types:

There are several file types for point cloud data that are commonly used in the industry. Some of the most popular point cloud file formats include:

LAS/LAZ: LAS (Lidar Data Exchange Format) and LAZ (compressed LAS) are file formats commonly used for storing 3D point cloud data. They are widely used in surveying, mapping, and other industries.
XYZ: XYZ is a simple file format that stores point cloud data as a list of coordinates in ASCII text format. It is easy to generate and read, and is often used for small to medium-sized point clouds.
PCD: PCD (Point Cloud Data) is a file format developed by the Point Cloud Library
(PCL) for storing point cloud data. It is widely used in computer vision and robotics applications.
E57: E57 is a file format designed for storing point cloud data captured by laser scanning and other 3D imaging technologies. It is used in a variety of industries, including architecture, engineering, and construction.