TrueView GO: The Smart Solution for Overcoming AEC Challenges
We’re happy to share a unique use-case of the TrueView GO from Michael Ligget, owner of Aerial Ethos. In this project, Michael, with the help of Aaron Beach from GeoCue, demonstrated the capabilities of the TrueView GO handheld LiDAR scanner. They successfully captured data for a customer, facilitating feasibility studies for volumes and enabling multiple design iterations in Virtual Surveyor and SketchUp. Originally published on the Aerial Ethos Blog or read below:
Unleashing the Power of Mobile Lidar: A Speakeasy Transformation
By Michael Liggett, Aerial Ethos
Last month, I had the exciting opportunity to work on a truly unique project. A client with a custom home perched on a steep hillside is evaluating the idea of transforming an expansive and complex crawlspace into a speakeasy/entertainment space. To do this evaluation, we needed to carefully assess the space’s dimensions, topography, and identify any potential structural limitations.
The Challenges
Complex Geometry: The crawlspace featured sloping topography and irregular contours, a result of the home’s hillside location and structural backfill.
Structural Constraints: It was critical to ensure that any modifications would not compromise the home’s structural foundation.
Accurate Measurements: Precise spatial data was essential to determine project feasibility and guide design decisions.
The Solution: Mobile Lidar Scanning
As a business owner, I am always keeping an eye on tech and tool advancements, evaluating the applications for my growing business and client needs. In this instance a mobile lidar scanning solution fit the bill. Mobile lidar is a cutting-edge technology that uses laser pulses to create detailed 3D point clouds of physical spaces. Mobile lidar captures every nuance of a structure, from the floor to the ceiling, providing invaluable data for analysis and design.
Since this is a tool I am currently evaluating for purchase, I reached out to my local rep (Nate) at GenPac Drones for suggestions, and he turned me on to the TrueView GO mobile lidar scanner. One week later we are on site with Aaron Beach from GeoCue scanning the site, giving this powerful tool a workout. It ultimately confirmed my assumptions that mobile lidar scanning has an important place in the AEC industry due to its versatility, speed, and precision. The TrueView GO also has some unique features (built in GNSS receiver, 3-cameras for RGB data collection, and RTK capabilities) which make it a strong contender for consideration. A special thanks to Nate and Aaron for making this demo a reality!
Comparing Technologies To better understand the advantages of mobile lidar, I thought it would be interesting to compare it with the lidar scanner on my iPhone 15 Pro. While the iPhone’s lidar scanner captures surprisingly descent spatial information (processed with the Polycam app), it lacks the accuracy and detail required for complex environments and is limited in range and density when trying to capture objects further out or in difficult corners of a space. Mobile lidar, by contrast, delivers a higher level of precision as well as capturing intricate details such as ceiling joists, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Tripod Lidar Scanners vs. Mobile Lidar Scanners
When discussing lidar we of course need to mention Tripod Scanners, which have been the gold standard in scanning for decades. When choosing between a tripod-mounted (terrestrial) lidar scanner and a mobile lidar scanner, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of the project:
Accuracy:
Tripod lidar scanners offer unparalleled accuracy, often down to millimeters. They are ideal for applications where the highest precision is critical, such as architectural preservation or detailed structural analysis.
Mobile lidar scanners, while slightly less accurate, still provide sufficient precision for most construction and engineering applications. Their flexibility makes them a practical choice for capturing large areas quickly.
Flexibility:
Tripod lidar scanners require a stationary setup and are best suited for static environments where detailed scans of specific points are needed.
Mobile lidar scanners excel in dynamic environments and are particularly effective for scanning complex spaces with irregular geometry, as they allow for rapid data collection while moving through the site.
Appropriate Use Cases:
Tripod lidar scanners are ideal for projects where absolute precision is paramount and the environment allows for extended setup times. Mobile lidar scanners are better suited for projects requiring fast, comprehensive data acquisition, such as large-scale topographic studies or environments with limited accessibility.
Tool Selection Criteria
Selecting the right lidar tool involves balancing accuracy, speed, cost, and understanding the intended use of the data:
Accuracy: For projects requiring millimeter-level precision, tripod lidar scanners are the top choice. For broader applications where slight variations are acceptable, mobile lidar provides a good balance of accuracy and efficiency.
Speed: Mobile lidar scanners excel in fast data acquisition, making them ideal for tight project timelines. Tripod scanners, while slower, offer unmatched detail for static scenes.
Cost: Mobile lidar systems are generally more cost-effective, especially for projects requiring large-scale data collection. Tripod scanners are often more expensive but justify their cost in highly specialized use cases.
Intended Use: Consider whether the data will be used for workflows such as rough volume calculations, detailed modeling, or structural analysis. Mobile lidar is versatile for most applications, while tripod scanners shine in scenarios requiring ultra-high precision.
The Workflow
Data Acquisition: Using a GeoCue TrueView GO mobile lidar scanner, I first acquired an RTK signal through its built in GNSS receiver outside of the structure. From there, I walked through the crawlspace capturing a comprehensive 3D point cloud which was displayed in real time on the handheld unit to ensure appropriate coverage.
Data Processing: The point cloud was processed in LP360 then further refined in CloudCompare to generate a clean and detailed 3D deliverable, laying the groundwork for additional analysis.
Volume Studies: Utilizing Virtual Surveyor, I created a 3D surface of the crawlspace and removed any objects that did not represent the terrain. From there, I modeled several iterations of design surfaces to evaluate the implications on cut/fill and potential conflicts with load pathways of structural footers.
3D Modeling: The processed point cloud was also imported into SketchUp, where I created a detailed 3D model for visualization and design exploration.
The Outcome
By harnessing the power of mobile lidar, we achieved the following:
- Accurate Spatial Assessment: We captured precise dimensions and detailed topography of the crawlspace.
- Structural Analysis: Potential conflicts with structural elements were identified early, enabling proactive planning.
- Enhanced Visualization: The 3D model allowed both the client and design team to visualize the transformation and refine the layout.
- Informed Decision-Making: The client gained valuable insights into the project’s feasibility, empowering them to make confident choices.
Conclusion
This project highlights the potential and versatility of mobile lidar scanning in the AEC space. By providing accurate data and detailed visualizations, mobile lidar empowers professionals to tackle complex challenges with confidence and creativity. From assessing feasibility to delivering innovative designs, this tech will be a critical tool for the industry now and into the future.
If you have lidar needs for your project, reach out to Aerial Ethos, and we would be thrilled to collaborate!