Modeling 3D scanned data to visualize the built environment

Capturing and modeling 3D information of the built environment is a big challenge. A number of techniques and technologies are now in use. These include EDM, GPS and photogrammetric application and also remote sensing applications. In this paper, we discussed 3D laser scanning technology, which can acquire high density point data in a accurate, fast way. Therefore, it can provide benefits for refurbishment process in the built environment. The scanner can digitize all the 3D information concerned with a building down to millimetre detail. A series of scans externally and internally allows an accurate 3D model of the building to be produced. This model can be "sliced" through different planes to produce accurate 2D plans and elevations. This novel technology improves the efficiency and quality of construction projects, such as maintenance of buildings or group of buildings that are going to be renovated for new services. Although data capture is more efficient using laser scanner than most other techniques, data modeling still presents significant research problems. These are addressed in this paper. The paper describes the research undertaken in the EU funded (FP6 IP) INTELCITIES project concerning 3D laser scanner technology for CAD modeling and its integration with various systems such as 3D printing and VR projection systems. It also considers research to be undertaken in the EU funded (INTERREG) Virtual Environmental Planning Systems (VEPS) project in the next 2 years. Following this, an approach for data modeling of scanned data is introduced, through which the information belonging to existing buildings can be stored in a database to use in building, urban, and regional scale models. © 2005 IEEE.