3D Scanning for Advanced Manufacturing, Design, and Construction

Chapter 7 Reverse Engineering for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction

7.1 INTRODUCTION

While reverse engineering is commonly associated with industrial applications, the principles of reverse engineering can also be applied on a much larger scale to the built environment. Objects such as buildings, bridges, and other large-scale structures benefit from the use of 3D laser scanning documentation. By using laser scanning to accurately document existing conditions of a structure, or part of a structure, a digital document is formed to become the basis of analysis for study, planning, or replacement. Often this is done in a noninvasive way, thus saving time and expense for the owner.

7.2 MODELING FOR ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS

Industry, in conjunction with the guidance of architects and engineers, has begun to adopt the use of 3D scanning to create digital twins of entire facilities. This has been made possible by the advances in scanning, software, and computer technology alongside the widespread acceptance and use of 3D CAD (computer-aided drafting) and scanning within the architecture and engineering professions. As design moved from 2D to 3D documentation, scanning provided a means to capture existing conditions of buildings and equipment in a 3D format. Scanning’s unique ability to accurately record large areas of both flat and complex geometries has made it a valuable tool within the AEC industry. When properly scanned in the field, the resulting data will capture ...