Different jobs require different tools—not to mention the software to accompany the hardware options. The 3D reality capture solutions available today can work together to create a perfect blend of technologies to optimize your workflow efficiency and productivity.
The Need for Speed
Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) enables mobile scanning of indoor, outdoor, and subterranean environments. Problems can arise when an autonomous or semi-autonomous device needs to identify its geospatial location in real time without the aid of the Global Positioning System (GPS) or other global navigation satellite system, while creating a map of its surroundings and placing its location on that map. SLAM technology solves this challenge by using computer algorithms and light-ranging technology like LiDAR (light detection and ranging) plus 360° cameras to perform both functions simultaneously. The technology is useful where GPS triangulation is difficult or impossible, such as in certain engineering and construction settings.
Increasing Accuracy
Mobile scanning complements stationary reality capture achieved through terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). Laser scanners like the FARO® Focus Premium Laser Scanner, now with Flash Technology™, are perfect examples of what fixed position scanning can achieve.
Read FARO’s guidelines and best practices for laser scanning: https://knowledge.faro.com/Hardware/Focus/Focus/Laser_Scanner_Best_Practices
Even with the speed and accuracy of stationary laser scanners, increasingly accurate mobile scanning—like that provided by the FARO Orbis Mobile Scanner—can be a critical time-saver, because it better captures hard-to-reach locations efficiently. At normal walking speeds of 2 to 4 mph (3.2 to 6.4 kph), a SLAM mobile scanning system can capture data up to 10 times faster than traditional TLS methods alone.
Cloud Software Enhances Productivity
Once the data are collected with the right 3D measurement tool for the job, the information must be processed through the right software. A cloud-based solution like the FARO Sphere® XG Digital Reality Platform allows construction, operations, and geospatial professionals to upload, view, measure, analyze, and share reality capture data in a single environment.
A platform solution can integrate data from a wide variety of capture methods, including stationary scanning, mobile scanning, iPhone LiDAR scanning, and 360° photo capture. It also can consume data from standard industry file formats and integrate with several of the industry’s most popular building information management (BIM) and project management platforms.
A cloud-based platform allows for real-time collaboration and project oversight; the ability to scan, upload, and share reality capture data; and secure storage of historical data throughout the project lifecycle. Efficient software is a vital component of a balanced 3D reality capture toolkit.
Watch this webinar for more details on building a 3D reality capture toolkit: https://www.faro.com/en/Resource-Library/WebinarPresentation-Recording/Perfect-Blend-of-Reality-Capture
Improving Profit Margins
The efficiency gain from a 3D reality capture workflow has a significant productivity multiplier effect. More locations can be scanned faster, with fewer personnel onsite and less risk of data gaps, so repeat site visits are reduced or eliminated. Enhanced throughput and project-to-project agility (thanks to speed, accuracy, ease-of-use, and portability) can translate into important new business opportunities in existing and yet-to-be-tapped markets.
SLAM technology like that in the FARO Orbis Mobile Scanner attempts to unite the accuracy of stationary laser scanning with the portability of quick mobile scanning solutions. An ideal workflow features stationary scanning for highly granular work, plus a mobile scanner to quickly map and measure natural or as-built environments.
For more information, visit www.faro.com.
