Construction Law

How 3D Lasers Are Used in Construction

3D lasers are changing the construction industry by transforming the way construction companies do inspections and build structures. Here the Sarasota construction attorneys of Cotney Attorneys & Consultants discuss how construction sites use 3D lasers.

How Does It Work?

A scan from a laser records data that captures a work site’s information and converts those conditions into data points. Depending on the type of scanner, super-size printers compose a concrete and composite mixture and print the building material. This mixture is much thicker than regular concrete, allowing for a self-supporting and stronger structure.

You Will Need Space

Your network and hardware will have to share and upload data from the laser scan. Expect to use a primary server with 3 TB of storage and a secondary server that has 16 TB of storage. Don’t forget computers with 32 GB of RAM, high-end graphics cards, and solid-state hard drives are also necessary.

What Are the Roadblocks? Regulations!

3D printing in the construction industry is still at an early stage. So early that the construction industry, known for heavy regulations, does not have any in place for contractors to enforce. Regulation and quality assurance standards for building materials ensure our buildings are safe and dependable. The advantages to productivity, reduced labor costs, and safer working environments should convince regulators on the potential of 3D printing.

3D printing will not displace all traditional construction techniques because 3D printing makes specific building components, not the whole building (i.e. electric sockets, floor panels, or walls).

Advantages of 3D Printing in Construction

Structural components made by 3D printing use fewer materials than normal concrete techniques. Due to the use of lower materials and lower labor, 3D printing is a much less expensive method of construction. Moreover, if leasing companies branch out into 3D printers the costs could be cut even more.

Capturing Evidence and Measurements

3D scans can assist with evidence and evaluations. Instead of relying upon pictured evidence and field measurements, 3D scanning can assist engineers and legal teams to quickly and accurately preserve an accident scene and its evidence. Once the 3D printer captures the worksite property, you can utilize the 3D scan for mediation, arbitration or litigation with a Sarasota construction attorney.

While 3D printing of buildings is not ready to go commercial yet, full-scale testing is in progress.

To speak with a qualified Sarasota construction lawyer from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, please contact our office at 813.579.3278 or submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.