Structural meshes from photographic and laser campaigns: a contribution on retopology-based pipelines

Abstract

Abstract This contribution proposes workflows that allow the transition from photographic and laser surveys to point clouds and geometric meshes designed for structural analysis. The process is complex and, even today, is typically handled using uncontrolled methods. These methods are often unregulated, relying on the transfer of data across multiple software tools. Such unsupervised workflows frequently jeopardize the accuracy and reliability of the final outcomes. Two experimental tests, a slab of concrete and a small-scale frame structure of steel, are reported in this paper to show the provided pipelines and check the relevant performances through state-of-the-art software. The proposed comparison between the pipelines serves to highlight key considerations for effectively managing the transformation to develop an accurate digital twin of the specified structure. Retopologization and interoperability with BIM environments are also discussed.

Keywords

• Work pipelines
• Laser surveys
• Photographic surveys
• Optimal meshes
• Finite element methods