FAQ’s

What is Laser Scanning?

This is a non-contact system of collecting large amounts of physical data and precise measurements using laser range finders in a 360° by 290° spherical area to a range of well over 100m.

What Is As-Built 3D Model?

This is a digital copy of the real-world environment in a 3D engineering model format. Elements in an as-built model are true in position and orientation, rarely is any element orthogonal or straight as found in a Design Model.

As-Built models are also referred to as “As-Is” models and also “Dimensional Digital Twin”.

What is a Digital Twin?

A digital twin is a digital copy of a physical entity. Eg: A power station, a refinery, or a storage facility, etc. The Digital Twin is designed to connect the physical world and the virtual world.  The purpose is to transmit real world data to the virtual entity so they can exist simultaneously, and the digital world can replicate the physical entity at the desks of the managers, operators, designers, etc.

What is the difference between a Digital Twin vs a Dimensional Digital Twin?

The Digital Twin provides both the elements and the dynamics of how an Internet of Things (IoT) device operates and lives throughout its life cycle. This can include many different operations including raw material deliveries, plant processing and product shipping.

A Dimensional Digital Twin is just a real-life physical properties and dimensions of an asset, captured and copied and converted to a 3D digital representation.

Is laser scanning dangerous?

No! The system and equipment used have eye safe lasers to measure distance.

Is laser scanning expensive?

It’s extremely cost effective when compared to traditional methods, when all the costs and expenses and time associated with traditional methods are computed. Competitive pricing is available upon request. Please call 713.396.0039 or email info@texas-surveys.com

How much time does Laser Scanning take?

One scan takes lass than 2 minutes. Depending on the size of the project and scope of work (SOW) a project may only require as little as 10 scans or as many as 1000+.

What materials can be laser scanned?

Any material can be scanned. However, water absorbs laser light, so puddles and standing water appear black. Also, care must be taken when scanning very dark matt black surfaces, very shiny and high reflective surfaces.  

How accurate is laser scanning?

The data collected for main stream engineering using the leica TCA and Z+F Imager scanner produces data with a general tolerance accurate to +/- 3mm (+/-1/8”). The accuracy can be increased for specic areas or tie-in locations dependednt on the area and operating conditions and selecting specialized equipment for specific applications. Generally though for structural, piping, HVAC Enginnering, etc  +/- 3mm (+/-1/8”) is excellent when collecting data in units which are running, low to high vibration, thermal expansion from operating conditions and/or weather conditions. 

Will laser scan data stand up in court?

Laser scan data id frequently used by law enforcement and used as evidence in court

What are some issues/problems with laser scanning?

Laser scanning is based on line of sight. If an area of focus can be seen then it can usually be scanned and data collected. The scanner needs a stable base free from severe vibration to function optimally. Other elements to consider and avoid are environments with heavy steam, falling water, and falling snow. All these elements will interfere with the data collection process.

How is the scan data viewed?

The scan data can be viewed in many different formats depending on the software chosen.

What's the advantages of scanning vs traditional surveys?

Advantages are:

  1. Safer
  2. Speed
  3. Accuracy
  4. Completeness
  5. Cost
  6. Reduces Safety Man hours overall
  7. Reduced time in dangerous areas
  8. No scaffolding required
  9. No JLG or scissor lifts required

 

Can you scan globally?

Yes! Texas Surveys has completed projects in over 50 countries world wide

Is the equipment intrinsically safe?

There is an intrinsically safe scanner available for very high risk areas. However most hazardous areas Eg: Offshore Oil and Gas platforms and pumping stations, Tank Farms, LNG facilities, etc. work under a Hotwork Permit with some site require additional sniffing and monitoring equipment.

What software is needed to use scan data?

The system has Apps and dedicated software which work with most 3D design software packages.

Is a CAD model needed for the data to be useful?

An accurate Dimensional Digital Twin (aka As-Is or As-Built 3D CAD model) is available to supplement the scan data on many projects

Will the scanner set off sensors eg fire, temperature, light?

No! There have been no recorded incidents of any sensors being triggered.

Can the scanner function in the dark?

Yes! The laser scanner can operate in total darkness and collect data as it would in normal daylight.

Can the scanner function in the rain or snow?

Light rain only, in emergencies only, and not recommended. As the scanner has electrical components it is not recommended that the scanner is used where it can get wet and the electronics damaged. Also water drops and snowflakes will interfere with the laser light and data collected.

Can the scanner function in extreme temperatures?

The temperature range of the scanner is -10°C – 45°C

How is Laser Scanning used in the IIOT?

The following are all terms used to describe what is essential in a network of things. IoT-enabled assets, devices, physical objects, sensors, anything connected the physical world, appliances, endpoints, the list goes on. Laser scanning is the first step of Digitizing Physical Objects which can be used to create the Dimensional Digital Twin.
“The main advantages of IIoT solutions in upstream operations are the low cost of supply, increased production and higher safety” : Satyam Priyadarshy, Halliburton

How is Laser Scanning connected to Industrie 4.0 / Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 is the digital transformation of all industrial markets (industrial transformation) with smart manufacturing and processes currently on the forefront. Industry 4.0 represents the so-called fourth industrial revolution (sometimes called 4IR) in discrete and process manufacturing, logistics and supply chain (Logistics 4.0), the chemical industry, energy (Energy 4.0), transportation, utilities, oil and gas, mining and metals and other segments, including resources industries, healthcare, pharma and even smart cities. The Dimensional Digital Twin is the critical link representing the physical world.

What is Laser Scanning, Digitization, Digitalization & Digital Transformation?

Laser scanning is the first step of Digitizing a Physical Objects in order to incorporate the asset and its function and performance into the collective Digitalization of the manufacturing process. This is also part of what is commonly known as Digital Transformation.

What are Living Models?

Laser scanning is the first step of Digitizing a Physical Object which can be converted to a Dimensional Digital Twin which is a core element of a Living Model.