Using Mobile Laser Scanners: Benefits and Challenges in Construction Surveys

“Hello Rainer, we understand that the point cloud from ‘xxxxx’ (a mobile laser scanner) doesn’t have the resolution of a terrestrial laser scanner. However, we trust that you’ll find the best and most accurate solution for the model.”

This feedback from our client highlights a common issue: mobile scanners often lack the detail required to produce models with a Level of Detail (LOD) higher than 300. This particular project involves the renovation of a historic building facade, demanding high accuracy and detail. Yet, the 3D laser scanner being used is a mobile scanner.

With years of experience, I know it’s challenging for mobile laser scanners to meet such precision standards. But perhaps clients put too much trust in the technology, believing that our expertise and processes can compensate for the limitations of the data. The convenience and speed of mobile scanners are persuasive, leading many to adopt them, even when they might not be suited for specific high-accuracy projects like this.

I firmly believe that mobile laser scanners have their place, particularly in visualize, digital-Twin projects, rather than as a primary surveying tool. Or at least, with the current quality and accuracy, their use in surveys should be carefully considered when high precision and detail are expected. While mobile scanner data can be useful in some cases, adjusting and validating it takes significantly more time compared to terrestrial laser scanning data.

If used inappropriately, we risk saving time on-site only to spend more on post-processing and modeling, with unreliable accuracy and detail. So, where does the efficiency lie?

In future posts, I’ll share more examples of projects where mobile scanners initially seemed helpful but later required costly adjustments due to accuracy issues. Do any of my colleagues have different experiences or perspectives?