High Definition Surveying: What Is It?

High Definition Surveying (HDS) or 3D Laser Scanning is a now an industry standard for small or large development projects. Several technology advancements have made this approach one of the best ways to keep a project moving smoothly and costs low. This is because high definition surveying helps managers gain precision data faster for incorporation into the modeling process. With this approach, a narrowed beam consisting of pulsed laser light is deployed across the target area to record an extensive amount of measurements at the same time.

The measurements are then shown on a computer screen in what is called a point cloud. It is similar to a three-dimensional model; however, the scan locations are actually combined into the point cloud for use in various types of design and development services. Point clouds are used in these among other endeavors:

• Virtual Walkthroughs
• Detecting Interference
• Containment Analysis
• Building of 3D Interactive Models
• Demolition or Critical Move Plans
• Inventory Management

High definition surveying delivers a non-intrusive method of rapidly collecting data about a location. This type of surveying is applicable in a number of areas ranging from construction to design planning. It delivers accurate, economical details about a location or structure with an advanced level of detail over alternative surveying methods. The created models may easily be viewed and modified on a computer. This allows the data to be incorporated into other modeling technologies used in this field for improved analysis and design.

What Advantages Does High Definition Surveying Offer?
Many advantages may be gained from using high definition surveying as the collected data ensures fast analysis as well as application during computer-aided design or building information modeling. Among these benefits is the ability to visualize the area to determine where building should take place and identify safety concerns. For example, having a model of a terrain aids in determining the best location for a structure without the need for alterations. This allows all involved parties to make decisions faster and with far more accuracy.

The primary benefits of HDS are faster data collection with exceptional accuracy for reliable analysis and modeling. HDS makes it easier to collect the information with less effort as a two person crew is able to scan as much as ten acres in one day whereas conventional methods require a larger crew and cover less acreage. By using HDS, the costs of a survey are significantly lower for any sized project. The surveying process aids in several design and building project areas including the development of:

• Site or Floor Plans
• Building Information Models
• Digital Terrain Models
• Foundation Plans
• Electrical Plant Layouts
• Space & Asset Inventories
• Structural Plans

High definition surveying reduces need for further site visits because the scan is performed once for data input. It is not necessary to return to the site to take further measurements. The technology offers a low cost, reliable approach to change detection, hazard surveying, accident reconstruction, as-built assessments, and construction projects. At LandAir Surveying, we use HDS to deliver accurate, fast terrain data. Contact us to learn how high definition surveying may be used to ensure the success of your latest development project.