New advances in 3D modeling of structural frames from LiDAR data: inspection and structural control

Abstract

Overall, the interiors of buildings are dynamic environments that change over time, especially, in industrial buildings and in the rehabilitation of old buildings for converted uses. Sometimes these changes are important and require a preliminary analysis of the structure. To perform a structural analysis for the application of new loads or for new uses, updated models of the structure are necessary, as well as a preliminary analysis of its structural health. For these tasks it is always necessary to use data directly acquired on the existing structure and, afterwards, to perform the necessary dimensional drawings and structural calculations. These processes are usually manual and tedious, subject to a high probability of errors, with high costs and a very long execution period. A promising technique for acquiring the 3D geometry of structures is Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR). Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is a LiDAR technology that is fast replacing traditional surveying techniques. Two of the most promising applications of laser scanning in construction and building are 3D modeling and structural health monitoring. In recent years significant progress has been made in these two fields. However new developments are still necessary to automate and improve the reliability of these processes from LiDAR data. The aim of this thesis is to research and develop new methodologies and algorithms to automate and make more reliable the processes of 3D modeling and analysis of structural health from LiDAR data, mainly for rehabilitation or changes of use in the interior of buildings, also achieving greater integration between the generation of 3D models and structural health monitoring, as well as, its application to BIM techniques. Although there are many types of structures, this thesis focuses on the frame structures of steel and wood, which are the most widely used in construction.