3D terrestrial laser scanner for managing existing building

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has gathered a lot of interest in Architectural, Engineering, Construction (AEC) areas. BIM introduces the 3D visualization element in designing and constructing new buildings, where the same design can be used to manage the building afterwards by assigned it as the 3D as-built. For existing building, professionals like architects and civil engineers need help from a specific hardware, like a 3D terrestrial laser scanner, to gather the data representing its interior and exterior. Although by applying 3D visualization or modelling for post-construction brings a lot of advantages, the implementation process are still slowly improving, compared for pre- and during construction, where it has reached its maturity. This paper will emphasizing on these advantages by discussing the benefits of implementing 3D as-built for current existing buildings and highlighting some case studies from projects done by Geodelta Systems Sdn. Bhd. towards several buildings in Malaysia. From here, having a 3D terrestrial laser scanner has brought a lot of improvement in managing existing buildings for various reasons, from fabrication, renovation to maintenance. Challenges of applying BIM for post-construction are also features here, to show on why the development are slow, compared to pre- and during construction process.