Digital as-built survey for precise planning and retrofit projects
Project Overview
For an international client in Tbilisi, Georgia, a multi-section underground parking facility was fully captured using 3D laser scanning.
The objective was to create a reliable digital as-built dataset to support planned structural modifications and the integration of additional installations.
The resulting point cloud accurately represents all relevant structural elements, installations, and spatial conditions, enabling efficient and precise further processing in CAD systems.
Why This Project Was Challenging
Underground parking facilities are demanding environments for laser scanning due to their complex geometries and varying environmental conditions. Key challenges included:
- Numerous obstacles and parked vehicles
- Highly variable surface materials (concrete, steel, glass)
- Limited accessibility in certain areas
- Dense installations in ceiling and wall zones
- High geometric accuracy requirements for future construction planning
Despite these conditions, a complete and precise point cloud was generated and successfully imported into HiCAD for detailed engineering work.
International and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
This project combined engineering, digitalization, and cross-border collaboration. Key aspects included:
- On-site data acquisition in Georgia
- Scanning performed using FARO laser scanner technology
- CAD processing and modeling carried out in Austria
- Digital collaboration across multiple countries
- Use of the point cloud as a direct planning basis for future installations and structural extensions
This workflow enables efficient retrofit projects where accurate as-built data is essential—independent of geographic location.
Technical Outcome
The completed scan resulted in a comprehensive point cloud accurately representing:
- Parking layouts and spatial geometry
- Columns, walls, ceilings, and load-bearing structures
- Ramps, transitions, and elevation changes
- Technical installations and infrastructure
- Fixed obstacles and built-in elements
- Existing vehicles and temporary objects (for orientation purposes)
The dataset was subsequently used for:
- Collision-free integration of new structures
- Precise layout and positioning studies
- Geometrically reliable design of additional installations
- Reduction of planning errors and construction risks
Conclusion
This project demonstrates how 3D laser scanning combined with modern CAD integration significantly improves planning reliability in retrofit and refurbishment projects.
By creating a high-precision digital representation of the existing environment, engineering decisions can be made with confidence—across borders and disciplines—making laser scanning an indispensable tool for complex projects in existing structures.