Point clouds are an information delivery system made up of a collection of data points in space, each with an x, y, and z coordinate. You can use this system to represent solid objects in a Finite Element Analysis context and simulate how they would behave in various environments.
Two of the most common tools for creating point clouds are photogrammetry and light detection and ranging.
The former employs drone mapping to capture images, which are then sutured and layered to produce a 3D mesh and an entire 3D model. LIDAR, on the other hand, uses light in the form of a laser to measure distances and record data points to create a point cloud.
Today, Point Cloud Technology is gaining popularity due to its ability to accurately represent the features of virtually any 3D object or space. Furthermore, the models that you create with the help of point clouds also aid in Visual documentation, Inspection and verification, Construction remodeling, Retrofitting, re-engineering, and reverse engineering.
Creating the system does however require a considerable amount of investment which is why as an alternative construction companies are actively outsourcing their modeling requirements to reputable point cloud modeling services providers.
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Advantages of Point Clouds in Construction
Enhanced project efficiency
When it comes to increasing project efficiency, Point Cloud excels at providing a precise method for creating highly realistic 3D models. While the tool does the work, you can gather project details more quickly and get started on your work sooner.
Furthermore, a point cloud is a sophisticated system that streamlines the project and you can use it at any stage of the construction process. The tool will also ensure that all aspects of a project are completed within the design parameters specified.
Higher accuracy
Any construction project’s level of detail and accuracy has a significant impact on the entire build from start to finish. So much so that the extent of your precision will determine whether the project runs smoothly without major construction delays or unexpected costs.
Point cloud models with a finite number of elements can accurately represent relatively complex objects. Point cloud modeling can assist you in aligning digital models with physical space and even provide a detailed representation of inaccessible and constrained areas.
Cost and time savings
Point clouds in construction can save you time and money because they are easier to invest in and can be completed with a smaller workforce in a shorter period of time.
Transitional surveying techniques, on the other hand, are expensive, time-consuming, and require a large workforce. Also, they frequently use manual equipment that is difficult to use and slow to record results.
Even though traditional methods may be less expensive, using point cloud can help you anticipate potential risks or avoid future costly mistakes that a traditional approach may not reveal.
Better monitoring and safety
The point cloud provides a quick, comprehensive overview of construction progress, allowing you to track what work is completed, when it is completed, and where it is completed. By simply comparing the data to the point cloud model, you can track the progress of your project.
This ability to monitor your projects can also help you detect mistakes and avoid delays, resulting in a better structural finished product. For example, with point clouds, you can use drones to collect data from difficult-to-access terrain.
Enhanced collaboration
Point clouds first gained prominence in project management by means of creating more collaboration and coordination. The construction area design schematics and construction project scans rendered with the help of point clouds helped considerably improve collaboration and communication.
With efficient use of the point cloud system, your construction team and engineers will be easily able to access the project data and interact freely as if they were on all sites.
Easy renovations
Renovations are an important part of construction projects and require a critical understanding of the existing job site or a historic building. This is when point clouds can be used to create a 3D model of an existing structure.
Designers and contractors can use the 3D model to create complete and accurate measurements of the site they will be working on and coordinate the project accordingly.
