3D point cloud surveys are transforming construction project management. They reduce avoidable costs and delays while also improving collaboration and oversight. Having access to 3D point cloud data also facilitates a switch to data-driven decision-making and analysis rather than the traditional approach, which is often based on educated guesswork and assumptions.
3D point cloud surveys also create a single source of as-built truth for that moment in time that all permitted stakeholders in the project can access.
We will outline in more detail later in this blog how 3D point cloud surveys benefit construction projects and the construction management function. First, though, what is a 3D point cloud, and how are they produced?
3D Point Clouds Explained
3D point clouds are created by highly technically advanced 3D laser scanners. The scanners produce a set of data points across three axes. In a scan of a building, there are millions of data points, with each one representing a specific measurement on the surface of the area being scanned. After processing, the data points combine to create an exact replica of the building in its current state – its as-built state.
At Tantek 4D, we create 3D point clouds that can be used across various disciplines including pre-construction, design, and construction, as well as part of our Asset Reality Capture solution. The 3D point clouds we produce are highly accurate and can be created quickly, making them ideal for construction project management.
The Benefits of 3D Point Clouds in Construction Management
3D point cloud data can be captured at critical stages of the construction schedule. The data that is captured is an accurate and complete representation of the real-time work that has actually been completed on-site.
The next step is where the real benefits start to come into play, as the 3D point clouds can be compared with 3D design models (BIMs). This gives you an accurate overview of where the building has and has not been constructed according to the design intent.
The benefits of having this information at critical stages in a construction project include:
- Track progress
- Early identification of deviations
- Reduce reworks
- Maintain standards
- Verify as-built conditions
- Improve communication
- Improve collaboration
- Minimise disputes
- Control costs
We can now look at each in more detail for added context.
Track Progress
Comparing a 3D point cloud with the 3D design models enables the tracking of key construction management metrics, including critical task completion, install verification status, installed quantities (planned versus actual), and the actual costs to date versus the planned costs.
The accurate, real-time progress tracking enabled by this information enhances construction project oversight and facilitates timely data-driven decision-making, keeping construction schedules on track. For example, construction and project managers can reallocate resources based on data from the 3D point cloud that highlights where progress is ahead of schedule, on time, or falling behind.
Early Identification of Defects
3D point clouds can be used to identify conflicts and deviations as early as possible, especially if surveys are conducted at critical points in the construction schedule. The earlier that conflicts and deviations from the intended design are detected, the easier, less time-consuming, and less costly they are to rectify.
Reduce Reworks
Reworks commonly occur when construction works continue while unidentified conflicts or deviations exist. Once the problems are uncovered, remedial work often needs to be completed before other tasks are redone. All this can be avoided with 3D point cloud surveys as there is considerably less risk that deviations and conflicts will go undetected.
Maintain Standards
Construction managers can use the 3D point cloud and comparison with the BIM model to ensure project standards, specifications, and requirements are being adhered to.
Verify As-Built Conditions
3D point cloud data can be used in the verification of as-built conditions against the original design and specifications. Verification processes are also more reliable and robust than alternative methods as the 3D point cloud data can be trusted for its accuracy and completeness.
Improve Communication
It is easier to communicate deviations and other issues within construction projects as the information can be visually presented using the 3D point cloud.
Improve Collaboration
Collaboration between project stakeholders is improved as everyone will have access to the latest robust and reliable information.
Minimises Disputes
The accuracy, completeness, and reliability of 3D point cloud data ensure there is a single source of truth. The result is a significant reduction in disputes as well as a reduction in the time, energy, and resources that typically go into resolving them.
Control Costs
One of the progress tracking capabilities that is possible with 3D point cloud data is actual costs versus planned costs. Having this data at key stages of the construction project enables the early identification of areas where costs are beginning to approach (or are already falling outside) accepted ranges.
The Power is in the Data
3D point clouds and the equipment used to create them are highly advanced technologies that have practical applications and benefits in the real world of modern construction projects. They are the bridge during a construction project connecting digital designs and models with the physical structure of the building to deliver productivity, cost, scheduling, and other benefits.
To learn more about applications for 3D point cloud surveys on your construction projects, contact us at Tantek 4D.
