Registration-free 3D Point Cloud Data Acquisition Technique for as-is BIM Generation Using Rotating Flat Mirrors

Nowadays, as-is BIM generation has been popularly adopted in the architecture, engineering, construction and facility management (AEC/FM) industries. In order to generate a 3D as-is BIM of a structural component, current methods require a registration process that merges different sets of point cloud data obtained from multiple locations, which is time-consuming and registration error-prone. To tackle this limitation, this study proposes a registration-free 3D point cloud data acquisition technique for as-is BIM generation. In this study, small-size mirrors that rotate in both horizontal and vertical direction are used to enable the registration-free data acquisition technique. First, a geometric model that defines the relationship among the mirrors, the laser scanner and the target component is developed. Second, determinations of optimal laser scanner location and mirror location are performed based on the developed geometrical model. To validate the proposed registration-free as-is BIM generation technique, simulation tests are conducted on key construction components including a PC slab and a structural wall. The result demonstrates that the registration-free point cloud data acquisition technique can be applicable in various construction elements including PC elements and structural components for as-is BIM generation.