Digital as-built survey for planning and retrofit projects
Project overview
For an international client in Tbilisi, Georgia, a multi-section underground parking facility was surveyed using 3D laser scanning. The survey recorded areas and features included in the agreed project scope.
The objective was to prepare a digital as-built dataset to support planned structural modifications and the integration of additional installations. The point cloud represents captured structural elements, installations and spatial conditions within the surveyed areas and can support further CAD processing.
Why this project was challenging
Underground parking facilities can present challenges for laser scanning due to complex geometry and changing site conditions. For this project, these included:
- obstacles and parked vehicles
- different surface materials, including concrete, steel and glass
- restricted access in some areas
- dense installations in ceiling and wall zones
- geometric requirements associated with future construction planning
The registered point cloud was imported into HiCAD for engineering work. Coverage and measurement results depend on access, obstructions, surface and environmental conditions, scanner setup and registration. Hidden or inaccessible areas may not be captured.
International and interdisciplinary collaboration
The project combined engineering, digitalisation and cross-border collaboration. The workflow included:
- on-site data acquisition in Georgia
- FARO laser scanner technology
- CAD processing and modelling in Austria
- digital collaboration across multiple countries
- use of point-cloud data to support planning for future installations and structural extensions
The deliverables supported the project teams across locations. Each project’s methods, responsibilities and outputs depend on its agreed scope.
Technical outcome
The registered point cloud included surveyed areas and features such as:
- parking layouts and spatial geometry
- columns, walls, ceilings and load-bearing structures
- ramps, transitions and elevation changes
- visible technical installations and infrastructure
- fixed obstacles and built-in elements
- vehicles and temporary objects present during the survey, for orientation where visible
Within the agreed project scope, the dataset supported:
- coordination reviews for proposed new structures
- layout and positioning studies
- geometric design reviews for additional installations
- identification of selected planning risks
Checks are limited to the surveyed and modelled data and the design provided for review; they do not guarantee clash-free integration or eliminate all measurement uncertainty.
Conclusion
This project shows how 3D laser scanning and CAD processing can provide a useful reference for retrofit and refurbishment planning. The point cloud supported engineering decisions for the areas captured and deliverables agreed for this project. Coverage, accuracy and achievable checks depend on site access, equipment, environmental conditions, registration and project requirements.