On-Site Design and the Implementation of Laser Scanners and Virtual Reality

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The main purpose of this dissertation was to integrate typical project design practices with growing technologies to increase project data accuracy, crew safety, and overall engineering value while reducing time and cost in a streamlined process. Information loss and missing data from the field can result in inefficient designs and potential conflicts during the construction phase. These conflicts often result in costly and preventable change orders, budget inflation and sometimes litigation. Through the implementation of laser scans the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the data can be guaranteed; and through the implementation of virtual reality a natural user interface can be provided to designers without means of visiting the field to experience the existing conditions. This study provides proof of concept for the integration of these new technological tools to the design process. And while laser scanning can be directly implemented and streamlined immediately, virtual really application gaps still need to be addressed before it can be fully implemented in the near future.