How Can LiDAR Technology Assist in Various Civil Engineering Projects?

You may have heard about LiDAR technology being used for self-driving vehicles to see the road and surroundings. But did you know this laser imaging detection and ranging technology has many applications in civil engineering projects, too? As a civil engineer, understanding LiDAR and how it works can open up new opportunities for your projects. Keep reading to learn more.

LiDAR uses pulsed laser light to measure variable distances and create precise 3D representations of the scanned landscape. Unlike conventional survey methods, LiDAR technology can map the ground and infrastructure concealed by vegetation or structures. According to the Federal Highway Administration, in the U.S., there are over 164,000 miles of highways; LiDAR data helps locate underground pipes, cables, and culverts obscured by soil and plants within our roads. It also lets you assess the condition of bridges, buildings, and other structures by seeing degradation not visible otherwise. LiDAR surveys take a few days instead of weeks or months with traditional surveys, saving significant time and money.

The high-resolution data from LiDAR technology provides accurate topology and feature positions to help design infrastructure like roads, railways, and dams. Since the survey method is quick, LiDAR allows comparing scans taken at different times to monitor changes and track project progress. For instance, regular LiDAR scans during the construction of a high-rise building can detect ground shifts near the foundation. You can immediately take preventive measures before they affect structural stability. LiDAR is also great for monitoring tunnels, mines, and excavation sites for early signs of subsidence that can endanger workers and equipment.

Some project sites have challenging terrain or objects obstructing access for land surveying, but LiDAR can map these tricky sites quickly and safely. Also, unlike traditional surveys, LiDAR does not require setting up base stations and targets. The fly-over LiDAR mapping helps locate dangerous sinkholes, erosion-prone landscapes, earthquake fault lines, and potential landslide areas. Identifying these ground risks early allows for adjusting infrastructure plans to mitigate hazards and prevent accidents. For existing roads or structures in high-risk zones, the monitoring ability of LiDAR provides critical data to strengthen or relocate them before disasters strike.

Integrating LiDAR technology will improve safety and accuracy and save considerable money and time. To get started with our LiDAR services for your civil engineering projects, call our team at ACI Corporation today.