From point cloud to CAD models: Laser and optics geotechnology for the design of electrical substations

The recording and modelling of complex sites by means of laser and optics geotechnology is still a difficult task, particularly for large and complicated electrical substations. The key to success lies in combining different methodologies and sensors to achieve a good 3D reality-based model that includes the required level of detail, high geometric accuracy, portability, automation, low cost and latest updated version. This last aspect is especially relevant for electrical substations that have been developed over spans of decades because the original CAD design model becomes outdated. This paper proposes an approach to pass from point cloud to CAD models based on the importance of producing an accurate up-to-date geometric description. To this end, laser and optics geotechnology is combined to fully exploit the intrinsic potentialities of each approach, guarantying successful results. Two different case studies are presented and validate this methodology. Crown Copyright (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.