In the construction industry, point cloud services play an essential role. It always adds valuable data to the details and project work. The undertaking of point cloud data is ideal for many construction projects. It includes the process of digital twin creation and site monitoring. But a question here is what point does cloud data mean, and what are its advantages?
Today, we will be discussing what point cloud is first and following the purpose of the service and how data can be captured. Not only this, but we will also be sharing the details of describing how the service is beneficial across the life cycle of the construction project. This concept will increase productivity, improve coordination, and reduce costs.
Introduction to Point Cloud:
A data set used to represent any physical object or space in point form is called a point cloud. The process of making these point clouds undergo multiple procedures. It is developed and prepared with the help of millions of individual measurements, data, and details with proper coordination. Once a point cloud is created, it is converted into a mesh or 3D modeling to ensure further use of the information for projects. The 3D models that are generated with the use of point clouds are exact, accurate, and reliable. Not only this, but it also helps capture the information replicating as-built conditions of the building.
Techniques used to create Point Clouds
Let us continue further, and see what techniques are used to create and develop point clouds. These are the techniques that deliver the work that is based on the market trends and processes.
There are two primary techniques that the companies use to develop point clouds, they are,
- Laser Scanning
- Photogrammetry
Laser Scanning
To create a comprehensive point cloud, the technique used is Laser Scanning Services. The work of laser scanners is worked up by using a laser beam to capture necessary information that represents the digital information about an object. With the scanner rotating 360 degrees, the data is achieved and connected to the beams with its surfaces. It helps capture and scan the entire surface and area of the object or place. In the later stage, all this information is used to capture the exact location of the thing that is relatable to its position.
Photogrammetry
The technique of photogrammetry is different from laser scanning. It is the process used to generate the data with the help of the compilation of the photographs. Also, data generation is used to get the exact measurements of the objects. To create a point cloud with photogrammetry, the process is first to contact the photos of the things from all their different locations, then articulate them on the object and integrate them in a 3D space. Compared with laser scanning and photogrammetry, the technique of laser scanning is still used and considered in the construction market.
Advantages of using Point Clouds
The work of point clouds has a vast range of applications used in the construction industry due to its high accuracy. As a result, the point cloud is valuable and data-driven; construction professionals have initiated the technology of integrating this service into their projects. It helps improvise the efficiency of the project and reduces the cost along with it.
Let us continue further and discuss the advantages of laser scanning services.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Building Information Modeling is the technology that has changed the working pattern in the construction industry. It is the newest form of service that makes the process easier, simpler, and faster. Also, to create accurate BIM models, the team uses the primary technology of point cloud data. It helps build and develop information, managing all necessary data for the project, with the mark-ups and creation of BIM models. The way of working allows stakeholders of the project to collaborate adequately. It also represents the work used from the planning stage to the construction and operational activities.
Creating Digitial Twins
To represent virtual data of any object, the team uses the technique of Point Cloud to BIM Services. It helps create appropriate digital twins of the model. The development is related to its physical objects and systems. The only difference between the two services is software, tools, and technology. It is necessary to use digital twin techniques for facility management and operational work, unlike BIM. Also, with the integration of IoT technology, the team can view the live report of their project and be updated with its status. Hence, it is the work that is beneficial in point cloud services.
Site Monitoring
For quick and live updates on the project, the work of point cloud services is beneficial for site monitoring. The work area here is to deliver a comprehensive overview of the construction project’s current status. Also, during the construction stage, if the team develops point clouds regularly, they can know what work is completed, how it is completed, and where. This valuable information helps keep track of the project promptly and closely build the project.
Floor Planning
The team can create and develop reliable floor planning data using point cloud data. Once the drawings are completed, the team uses CAD to BIM technology and software to add meaningful content to work. This method is more likely to be used in the traditional process and is unlike the current techniques.