Lasers in construction
[edit] Introduction
Laser is an acronym which stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This derives from the fact that a laser stimulates the use of electromagnetic radiation and emits a narrow, concentrated beam of light that can be focused on to a tight spot and directed to serve various functions. When a laser operates, it produces a laser beam.
As early as 1916, Albert Einstein mooted the possibility of the stimulated emission of radiation; then in 1958, the core theory around lasers was formulated by Charles Townes and Arthur Schawlow. However, the first working laser was created in 1960 by Theodore Harold Maiman working for the Hughes Research Laboratories in California, US.
Originally existing largely in the realm of science fiction, lasers have today become common in all walks of life, including telecommunications, CD/DVD players, weapon systems and precision cutting. They have also become popular in the public imagination due to their use for special visual effects in light shows, theatres and concerts.
Lasers can also be used to carry large amounts of information (more so than radio waves), focussed to provide intense power and have become common in surgical procedures and scientific research. They can travel over large distances and are used in satellite communications. The light emitted by a laser is spatially coherent, which means it can remain narrow over large distances
[edit] Construction applications
Laser scanning provides a robust method for surveying inaccessible surfaces as well as complex geometries. It collects surface data using a laser scanner which captures the precise distance of densely-scanned points over a given object at rapid speed. The process is commonly referred to as a point cloud survey or as light detection and ranging (LIDAR, a combination of the words 'light' and 'radar'). It can be used to generate 3D imagery that can be converted for use in 3D computer aided design (CAD) modelling or building information modelling (BIM). LIDAR has become invaluable for surveying existing properties for retrofitting and refurbishment. For more information see: LIDAR.
Helicopters and drones can use laser scanning to record the exact details of topography, existing structures and townscapes. For more information see: Drone.
Lasers can also be used to measure distances and levels and to help in the setting out of construction works. For more information see: Surveying instruments.
In the manufacture of construction products, lasers are likely to be used for precision cutting, drilling and welding.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- 3D printer.
- Building information modelling.
- Construction drones.
- Geophysical survey.
- Global positioning systems and global navigation satellite systems.
- How can drones transform construction processes?
- Interview with David Southam about laser scanning in construction.
- Levelling.
- LIDAR.
- Pre-construction information.
- Site surveys.
- Surveying instruments.
- Uses of drones in construction.
Featured articles and news
Private rental sector, living standards and fuel poverty
Report from the NRH in partnership with Impact on Urban Health.
.Cold chain condensing units market update
Tracking the evolution of commercial refrigeration unit markets.
Attending a conservation training course, personal account
The benefits of further learning for professsionals.
Restoring Alexander Pope's grotto
The only surviving part of his villa in Twickenham.
International Women's Day 8 March, 2025
Accelerating Action for For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.
Lack of construction careers advice threatens housing targets
CIOB warning on Government plans to accelerate housebuilding and development.
Shelter from the storm in Ukraine
Ukraine’s architects paving the path to recovery.
BSRIA market intelligence division key appointment
Lisa Wiltshire to lead rapidly growing Market Intelligence division.
A blueprint for construction’s sustainability efforts
Practical steps to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Timber in Construction Roadmap
Ambitious plans from the Government to increase the use of timber in construction.
ECA digital series unveils road to net-zero.
Retrofit and Decarbonisation framework N9 launched
Aligned with LHCPG social value strategy and the Gold Standard.
Competence framework for sustainability
In the built environment launched by CIC and the Edge.
Institute of Roofing members welcomed into CIOB
IoR members transition to CIOB membership based on individual expertise and qualifications.
Join the Building Safety Linkedin group to stay up-to-date and join the debate.
Government responds to the final Grenfell Inquiry report
A with a brief summary with reactions to their response.
Comments