Framework for Real-Time Three-Dimensional Modeling of Infrastructure (05-1499) - MP-01
Jochen Teizer, Georgia Institute of Technology
Changwan Kim, Chung-Ang University, South Korea
Carl Haas, University of Waterloo, Canada
Katherine A Liapi, University of Texas, Austin
Carlos Caldas, University of Texas, Austin

Modeling transportation infrastructure assets in 3D is becoming increasingly necessary for good management. Condition assessment, maintenance, operations and construction activities are exploiting 3D models for improved visualization, communications, and process control. Acquiring 3D models rapidly can improve safety and productivity, and it is becoming feasible through approaches based on sparse range point clouds, however, while this approach has contextual advantages, it is ultimately limited in speed. Emerging Flash LADAR (Laser Detection and Ranging) technology is opening up the possibility of 3D modeling at rates better than 1 Hz (real-time). The objective of this article is to present a framework for 3D modeling that includes the dimension of time. In particular, the performance of the Flash LADAR technology is examined and potential applications are explored. Technologies such as Flash LADAR will play an important role in real-time modeling of infrastructure assets in the near future. Keywords: real-time 3D workspace modeling, navigation and control, transportation safety, Flash LADAR