Automatic 3D reconstruction of as-built pipeline based on curvature computations from laser-scanned data

Abstract

Demand has been growing for 3D reconstruction of as-built pipelines that occupy large areas within operating plants. In practice, measurements are efficiently performed using laser-scanning technology; however, reconstructing an as-built pipeline from this laser-scanned data remains challenging. The data acquired from the plant facility can be incomplete because of complex occlusion, or it can be affected by noise because of the reflective surfaces of the pipelines and other parts. The aim of this study was to propose a method for generating models of entire pipelines that include straight pipes, elbows, reducers, and tee pipes from laser-scanned data. The proposed 3D reconstruction method for as-built pipelines is divided into three main tasks: identifying the types and locations of the pipelines from the laser-scanned data, segmenting the pipelines into each type of pipe form, and reconstructing the pipelines' geometry and topology and generating models of them. Field experiments were performed at an operating industrial plant to validate the proposed method. The results revealed that the proposed method indeed can contribute to the automation of 3D reconstruction of as-built pipelines. © 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.