When 3D scanning is performed during construction, very detailed and timely project data is captured. The speed of data capture means that construction progress is not impacted. For example, as-built data documents the location of conduits, cables, and rebar to inform future construction or renovation on-site. For excavation, shotcreting, grading or rock stockpiles, 3D laser scanning allows detailed and very accurate quantity calculations.

For a new building at Portland Community College’s Willow Creek Center, scanning captured the location of rebar, post-tension cables and utility conduit prior to the concrete pour. When power conduit winds through rebar, conduit can be misplaced (i.e. not per design). The unknown locations can cause a serious safety hazard when accidentally drilled through on a post pour slab penetration. Scan data can be revisited during future renovation projects to show utility locations under the slab which can result in reduced costs.