Fast, Accurate Land Surveying Through 3D High-Definition Scanning

In general, the more information gathered in a land survey, the better. But even the most experienced surveyor can only collect so much data in a given length of time. Software and digital tools can exponentially increase the rate at which survey data is captured. 3D High-Definition Scanning, or HDS, is a great example.

With HDS surveys, enormous sums of data can quickly be collected and shaped into a usable point cloud. McClure offers professional 3D HDS surveys backed by experienced engineers. Consider investing in this innovative technology to reduce the time and costs of land surveys.

Laser-Generated 3D Imagery

HDS uses lasers and millions of data points to create detailed, 3D images. These lasers are swept across terrain and buildings. The time it takes for the light to bounce off objects and return to the scanning equipment helps form the data point. As these points increase in number, the level of detail is expanded. With the combined data points in the resulting point cloud, precise 3D measurements are possible.

In order to form a 3D image, each data point must use its horizontal and vertical positions as well as the depth between the surveyor and what’s being scanned. In simpler terms, a data point consists of the x, y, and z axes.

Terrestrial LiDAR

HDS surveys use a form of LiDAR, or light detection and ranging. The speed and versatility of LiDAR for surveying makes it a popular tool for specialty services like unmanned . And since HDS is done on the ground, it’s sometimes called terrestrial LiDAR or terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). With a tripod-mounted scanner, a surveyor can easily sweep the lasers across the terrain or objects being scanned.

Benefits of HDS for Land Surveys

Can be completed from a safe distance: Busy highways or steep cliffs can make traditional land surveying more dangerous to accomplish. HDS can generate accurate measurements without putting the surveyor at risk.

Can be done in a variety of conditions: HDS surveys can be accomplished regardless of the lighting at the survey site. It’s also useful when the site is busy with other contractors, developers etc. HDS surveys are unobtrusive and won’t disrupt other operations on site.

Scan otherwise inaccessible areas: More time and money is needed to scan difficult-to-reach places like across bridges or in remote regions. High-definition scanning will provide accurate measurements from more accessible vantage points.

Faster and less expensive: Though surveyors may use more than vantage points during the scanning process, it still takes much less time to complete HDS surveys. Time saved is translated into lower costs, for both scanning and any other projects that would be delayed by traditional surveys.

Accurate Imagery of Uncommon Shapes: The precise measurements captured by HDS equipment can recreate 3D models of complex shapes that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to do with traditional methods. High-definition scanning used on a tree could create data points based on the positions of smaller twigs and even leaves.

Other Uses for High-Definition Scanning

There’s a great deal of potential for using high-definition scanning in tandem with other surveying methods or equipment. For example, the data collected from HDS surveys could be used alongside BIM or combined with hydrographic data from a specialty service like .

HDS equipment has even been used to help settle property disputes or lawsuits. Accurate renders of damaged infrastructure or a vehicle accident could provide the necessary information for a fair outcome.

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McClure can apply the versatility and speed of 3D HDS surveys to your next project.

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