Course Overview

The course is designed to impart a broad comprehension of remote sensing technologies, with a specific emphasis on 3D laser scanning technology and its imaging capabilities. Participants can expect a thorough exploration of laser scanning technology, encompassing its applications in civil and architectural engineering, road construction, mechanical engineering, and various other fields.

What constitutes 3D laser scanning? In essence, a 3D laser scanner generates a point cloud—an assemblage of points in three-dimensional space that collectively forms a comprehensive 3D image.

The course introduces different methods for manipulating point clouds, such as transforming point clouds onto a common coordinate system, removing unwanted point cloud data, creating deliverables in 2D and converting a point cloud into a 3D BIM model. Emphasis is also placed on understanding uncertainties inherent in laser scanning measurements.

Learning Outcomes

Having passed the course, the students:

• Grasp the fundamental principles and explore potential applications of 3D laser scanning;
• Acquire knowledge of the basics involved in 3D point cloud processing;
• Demonstrate the ability to plan and execute laser scanning tasks effectively;
• Demonstrate proficiency in generating deliverables, including 2D plans and 3D Building Information Models (BIM).

Course Content

The general outline of the course:

• Explore 3D imaging techniques, including remote sensing through scanners, photogrammetry, radars, and sonars. Gain an introduction to laser scanning technology, understanding its applications in various fields. Explore the essentials of electromagnetic distance measurement systems, examining their fundamental principles. Discuss key facets of laser technology, including its characteristics and safety considerations. Uncover the inherent advantages linked with laser scanning;
• Differentiate between static and dynamic laser scanning. Explore prevalent laser distance measuring principles, including Time of Flight, Phase Shift, and Waveform Digitizing Technology;
• Consider the impact of scanning geometry on the quality of the point cloud. Explore how scanning geometry influences the precision and accuracy of the point cloud data;
• Examine the architecture of various laser scanners, including factors like field-of-view. Provide an overview of the diverse scanners available in the market;
• Engage in laser scanning fieldwork, focusing on measurement validation. Explore survey control, including types and establishment methods. Delve into the laser scanning data acquisition process;
• Explore the principles of manipulating point clouds, including data transformation tasks such as registration, georeferencing, visualization, and the creation of deliverables such as 2D plans, cross-sections, and 3D as-built Building Information Modeling (BIM) models;
• Fieldwork (group work);
• Data processing (computer class).

During the course, various exercises will be carried out. The results of the exercises will be analyzed and discussed in the classroom.

Instructional Method

The studies consist of lectures, seminars, hands-on work, fieldwork and independent work.

Required Course Materials

Point clouds are processed and visualized in a computer lab utilizing Autodesk Recap, AutoCAD, and Revit software.

The software and hardware are required for the course.

The laser scanning equipment and point cloud data are provided by the TTK University of Applied Sciences of Estonia.

Assessment

The final grade for the course is determined by combining the results of a written test, laboratory work, and a subject paper. The test carries a maximum of 50 points, while the laboratory work, subject paper, and attendance in class collectively contribute to a maximum of 50 points.