What are some aspects of a foodservice facility that can particularly benefit from 3D mapping?
Low-cost 3D mapping can be done several times over the course of a project. Scans can be conducted at critical points during construction such as inspections to assess completeness and code compliance. Facilities that have scans completed during construction can use those scans to know where plumbing, ventilation and electrical systems are within walls, which can then be used to pinpoint possible points of failure and facilitate troubleshooting.
How can 3D mapping help me streamline and speed up project changes? When project managers and designers have access to the 3D map of a facility, they can better help clients understand the full magnitude of how proposed changes may impact the project. For example, the mapping can show how much rework is required when a kitchen layout shifts to accommodate a new workflow, or whether the installation of a cutting-edge griddle will require other equipment to be removed or replaced — decisions that equate to time and money.
Can it help make walkthrough inspections more efficient? Another advantage of 3D scanning is that it can accompany walkthrough inspections to serve as a record for the conditions at the time of inspection. It has become standard practice in several industries for 3D mapping to support the evaluation of construction inspections and confirm progress for payment milestones. TRC has used drones equipped with lidar to collect intermediate as-built models and compare those to the final construction plans to determine percent complete.
Can the data be used to ensure my project is compliant with local building and environmental regulations? Yes. The images produced by a 3D scan can be processed to detect construction features that are required to meet codes (e.g., fire suppression systems) or dimensions that define regulatory requirements (e.g., distances between elements or clearances for ingress and egress, etc.). Because they reflect real-world conditions, they can also be used to generate comprehensive reports and digital records. These can be shared with local inspectors or regulating agencies, helping speed up necessary approvals.
Do you have any real-world examples of how 3D mapping improves regulatory compliance? A recent client was given a mandate to provide evidence that correct safety equipment exists within their facilities. A 3D scan was done of relevant facilities, and those scans were processed using machine learning to detect, extract and classify the equipment in question. This effort not only provided an efficient and effective means to prove compliance but also generated a robust record for an independent audit of the inventory and compliance claims.
What else should foodservice equipment dealers understand about how 3D mapping can support their projects?
3D scanning technology is now available on high-end mobile phones. Basic apps using these sensors can provide a view into the potential impact these tools can have for assessing, measuring, communicating, and maintaining facilities in a visual, data- driven manner.
About TRC Companies Todd Slind is the vice president of artificial intelligence capabilities at TRC Companies, a FEDA business services member that provides consulting, engineering, and construction management services for the energy, environment, and infrastructure sectors. His background spans a wide array of sectors and involved developing data and applications in civil infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and financial services, among other fields. Learn more at
trccompanies.com. Todd can be reached at TSlind@trccompanies. com.
34 FEDA News & Views
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