Laser Scanning

3D laser scanning remotely captures the complete three-dimensional geometry of objects efficiently and accurately. It uses laser range finding technology in a systematic way to measure a high level of detail in high volumes. A huge amount of detail can be collected in a short period of time whilst maintaining survey accuracy. In addition, the laser technology utilised permits the scanner to work in poor lighting conditions without affecting the quality of the survey. 

The point cloud data captured can be post-processed to extract features from the data. This can feed into more traditional CAD deliverables or be processed into 3D models such as BIM deliverables depending on our client’s requirements. Laser scanning typically generates very large datasets. We offer solutions to manage and visualise this data to ensure our clients maximise the value of their information. 

Murphy Geospatial continue to innovate in laser scanning applications. We were approached by major manufacturers to test and become early adopters of mobile scanning technology. Mobile laser scanning, or mobile mapping, combines data captured by multiple laser scanning instruments and cameras mounted on a vehicle, with positional information from other sensors, to provide comprehensive data capture along linear projects.

As with any of our survey services, our approach is to consult with our clients to determine their exact requirements. Terrestrial laser scanning surveys typically form a small percentage of overall project cost but provide excellent value in the form of a single source of truth for a project which can be used throughout the project lifecycle.  

Once awarded a project we employ a well-established project delivery workflow, based on our 37 years of delivering over 20,000 surveys. The key to a well-executed laser scan survey is pre-planning. A laser scanner can only capture features that are within its line of sight, however, capturing scans from multiple positions can be combined to provide a comprehensive capture. We take great care in planning our laser scanning surveys to optimise the number of scans required to create a full capture of the survey areas. 

Our equipment is regularly calibrated and upgraded to ensure we utilise the latest technology and firmware. Ongoing investments in the latest technologies enable us to cut costs and risks for our clients. We have an array of systems available to meet any requirement, including the Mobile Mapper (vehicle-mounted), Aerial LiDAR, terrestrial and handheld scanners. We use a portable coordinate measuring machine with integrated laser scanner for close range laser scanning. This technology is a fully integrated high definition 3D measurement solution for applications that require metrology grade precision. 

We have developed our own exclusive, in-house 3D surveying and CAD/Revit modelling techniques. Our laser scanning and BIM departments work hand-in-hand to deliver models with amazing level of detail and complexity. The processing of point cloud information is a rapidly developing sector with feature extraction now beginning to be assisted by artificial intelligence and machine learning. With the support of our innovation and technical departments, we are beginning to adopt these processes to streamline our own processing workflows, ultimately passing on this saving to our clients. 

Acquisition of geospatial data via laser scanning opens up a range of delivery options for our clients. Murphy Geospatial predominately deliver point cloud (coloured or uncoloured, Truview), extracted 2D or 3D features in CAD drawing (.dwg or .dgn) or BIM models to varying levels of detail (LOD100 – 500). We can add attribute data according to our clients requirements. We also provide federated data where we captured topographical, utility, or aerial survey data. This will be geospatially coordinated to provide the best framework for progressing the design of projects.  

Laser scanning derived deliverables are often large, complex datasets with significant file sizes. We offer solutions to manage and visualise this data to ensure our clients maximise the value of their information. Users can view, pan, zoom, measure and markup without the need for CAD or 3D skills. This is available through standard internet browsers, typically without the need for additional plug-ins. Our geospatial management service can provide further assistance where our clients have multiple datasets for a project or across their portfolio.