Laser scanning
We perform manual, vehicle-mounted, and even aerial laser scanning to handle even the most hard-to-reach projects. On this page, you can learn more about the technology, the process, and the types of work we carry out.
What is laser scanning?
Laser scanning is a measurement technique in which a scanner emits laser pulses and calculates the distance to surfaces based on the reflection time . The data is collected within a coordinate system and forms a point cloud. The point cloud consists of many points that describe the shape and position of buildings, installations, and terrain, and can be used as a basis for drawings and models.
In static scanning, measurement instruments are placed at one or more stations. Each station produces a dense set of measurement points, sometimes supplemented with intensity or color data. The data is registered using overlap and references, and control points can be used to verify accuracy. The point cloud is then cleaned of noise and unwanted objects and prepared for delivery or further modeling.
With our mobile solutions, the process works somewhat differently. We use machine-based, vehicle-mounted laser scanning with either rail-bound vehicles or road vehicles. This technology makes it possible to efficiently scan long stretches of road or railway.
In these projects, measurements are combined with modern GPS and LiDAR technology. Data is collected with high point density and can include millions of measurement points per second. This reduces shadow zones and often makes a single survey sufficient. After fieldwork, the data is registered, cleaned, and quality-checked based on the project’s tolerance requirements.
Data Collection Methods
Advantages of laser scanning
Rapid data collection of millions of measurement points per second, rarely requiring more than one survey.
Rich datasets enable the creation of design and inventory documentation.
High accuracy with millimeter precision and real-world measurements instead of standard dimensions.
Enables the creation of digital twins to analyze, measure and study every detail of the infrastructure directly in your browser.
Areas of Application
Atritec delivers measurement data for tunnels, viaducts, bridges, roads, railways, power lines, and other infrastructure. The detailed information from scanning can be used as a basis for design and inventory documentation, such as position control, deviation analysis, and documentation. If needed, a digital twin can be created, allowing the facility to be explored virtually and measured directly in a web browser.
Common deliverables include point clouds in standard formats as well as data for CAD and BIM. The data can achieve millimeter precision when conditions allow, with a focus on real-world measurements rather than standard dimensions. If required, drawings, sections, orthophotos, and 3D models can also be produced.
Laser scanning to BIM (Scan-to-BIM)
If you are not sure whether you can trust the documents in your construction project, we can also perform laser scanning to BIM (Scan-to-BIM). Depending on your needs, we can create a 3D building model of your building and either fill the object with available information for you, or prepare the object so that you can fill in all the necessary information yourself.
Don't work with data you can't trust. Contact us and we'll help you with a BIM model. Want to know more about our laser scanning for BIM service? Contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is laser scanning?
Accuracy depends on factors such as distance, area size, line of sight, temperature conditions, and how registration between stations is performed. We plan each project based on the required tolerances and complement measurements with control points and a clearly defined coordinate system when needed. After data collection, registration and quality control are carried out to identify any deviations. Documentation describing methods, references, and quality checks can be included in the delivery.
How long does laser scanning take?
The time required for laser scanning depends on the complexity of the environment, accessibility, safety procedures, and the method used. Manual laser scanning in buildings often requires more stations in confined spaces, while vehicle-mounted laser scanning can efficiently cover longer distances in infrastructure projects.
In addition to fieldwork, post-processing is required, including registration, cleaning, classification, and, if needed, modeling. We always discuss with you how to adapt the approach to your schedule and standards.
What are point clouds used for?
A point cloud generated from laser scanning is used as a measurable dataset to analyze real-world conditions. It can be utilized for verification measurements, coordination between disciplines, asset inventory, and clearance analysis. Point clouds can also serve as a foundation for 2D drawings, 3D models, and BIM, depending on how the data is processed. We can also create more advanced digital twins, allowing you to review and take measurements in a web-based environment without the need to plan additional site visits.
When is laser scanning better than traditional surveying?
Laser scanning is often suitable when a large amount of detail needs to be documented in a short time, for example in technically complex environments, during renovations, or in infrastructure projects where access is limited. The method can reduce the need for repeated surveys, as the collected data can be reused for multiple purposes, from asset inventory to design. Traditional surveying may still be relevant for individual points or simpler control measurements. Atritec can assist in selecting the appropriate method based on the project’s risk profile, timeline, and data requirements.
Why Atritec
Rapid technological development
Time-efficient methods
The market's leading measurement services
Experienced measurement technicians
Get help from us at Atritec
Do you need professional laser scanning? Book a consultation with our experienced surveying technicians.
Contact details
- Linus Olsson
- CEO
- +46 73 808 90 73
- linus.olsson@atritec.se