Every day we are making discoveries that we had no knowledge of. We are gaining insight into our past, and we are using some of the most cutting edge technology to do it. A 150-year-old bathhouse was discovered under the Manchester parking lot discovered by the use of 3D laser scanning from a construction team. The team was aware of this bathhouse’s location but was surprised to find it in excellent condition.
This bathhouse was not known for relaxation but for textile workers who needed to bathe and wash clothes in the 19th century. The construction team has discovered 62-foot long tiled pools, pumps, fuses, and boilers. The team is fully utilizing drone technology and 3D laser scanning to create digital models to digitally preserve future information.
The construction team is not letting the pieces go to waste. There are plans to restore and reuse the tile to help create a 6.5-acre park. 3D laser scanning is just the first step in collecting information to use later on for the restoration project.
How 3D laser scanning works in construction
You often hear about 3D laser scanning and how useful it is to evaluate construction sites, and you may be wondering how it works. It is an easy to use technology that has some complex functions and makes a great accessory for construction crews worldwide.
There are two main types of 3D laser scanning, one called photogrammetry and LIDAR light detection and range. A few more types of scanning researchers use, but these are the two you mainly hear about in the news.
Photogrammetry works by taking rapid pictures of an object and is known for precision, speed, and accuracy. It can take pictures of still objects and combine them with technology and computer algorithms to create a 3D object.
LIDAR uses a sensor or laser beam that bounces over an object and gathers information as well as is being measured by the distance it travels. This is one of the most precise versions of 3D laser scanning and can genuinely help restore objects and digitally preserve them. The best advantage of this tool is that it can scan large spaces and massive items.
LIDAR can be the most beneficial for construction teams because it can be analyzed through the 3D laser scanning device no matter the space. The best part of this is that it can also be attached to drones or other moving objects if a place is too dangerous for the team to venture. Every detail of the site can be picked up and analyzed to create a plan to move forward.
Final thoughts
There are several types of 3D laser scanning, and many of them can help restore historical sites. This can be one of the best tools for construction crews and that is why we are seeing such a rise in their use around the world. It brings along many advantages that would be lost without the device.