3D scene capture: a comprehensive review of techniques and tools for efficient Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and Emergency Preparedness (EP) applications

Abstract

3D scene capture is a critical task in many domains, especially for BIM model reconstruction of existing facilities, Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), and Emergency Preparedness (EP). While initial CAD/GIS plans and drawings, if they exist, represent a valuable source of information, acquiring knowledge about the dynamic scene, aspects like crowd movement or furniture is a necessary and difficult task. In this context, 3D capture becomes unavoidable as it is the only way to deal with such dynamic information. We propose, in this work, a critical review of 3D capture techniques and tools, ranging from photogrammetry to 3D scanning. Our study distinguishes itself by being oriented towards 3D capture practitioners, who need to make critical decisions about the choice of adequate acquisition technologies for a particular application. We review 3D capture techniques by exposing their pros and cons, and discuss the most relevant aspects of each technology, like equipment/operation costs, mobility, ease of use, learning curve, acquisition accuracy, precision and range, generated data complexities, post-processing considerations, and applications. The paper aims at synthesizing the analysis by developing a set of recommendations for the use of 3D capture in various contexts with special reference to LCA and EP in the built environment.