Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:

• List the applications, advantages and limitations of laser scanning and describe scenarios where it can and cannot be used
• Explain the IT requirements and restrictions
• Describe types of laser scanner and their uses (e.g. hand-held, terrestrial, mobile, aerial)
• Describe the capabilities and limitations of different types of laser scanning targets including spheres and checkerboards
• List different methods for establishing control points and their suitability in different situations
• Explain the difference between registration points and control points
• Explain when to use the inclinometer and when not to
• Explain how laser scanning technology works
• Explain factors which need to be considered when scanning in a public area with people and traffic

• Describe the effect of light conditions on image quality
• List factors which affect scan quality and image quality
• Use scanning terminology correctly including identifying and naming the parts of the scanner
• Explain the relationship between surveying with an optical instrument, GNSS use and laser scanning
• Identify the purpose and required deliverables of the survey
• Plan a laser scan survey from start to finish considering scanning requirements, type of equipment, placement of equipment and control, permits, safety measures and road closures
• Validate existing control points and establish control points
• Plan the safe work area
• Identify and plan for visual obstructions
• Place the spheres and checkerboards correctly
• Plan the set-up positions considering target types, overlap and visual obstructions
• Set up the configuration/profile for each scan
• Place the laser scanner appropriately
• Transfer the raw data from the equipment to the computer and prepare for processing
• Transform scan data to point cloud
• Explain the different methods of registration (target based, cloud to cloud, mixed)
• Clean the scan data (remove people, cars etc)
• Carry out checks on the data to check the instrument conforms with the manufacturer’s specification
• Colourise the scan data
• Tie laser scan survey data in with drawings, local grid, previously created point clouds and existing features
• List the different file types used and explain how different file types interact
• Select the most suitable software based on the required deliverables and the capabilities and limitations of the different types of software available
• Superimpose a construction drawing onto scan data
• Convert the point cloud to 3D data for use in BIM
• Export a 3D visual tour which can be viewed by anyone
• Carry out measurements and compute volumes