Using handheld 3D laser scanner and high-resolution handheld digital microscope for hybrid building condition measurements

In the diagnostic measurement of buildings and engineering structures, precise measurements are essential, particularly for detecting defects that, despite their small size, can significantly impact the safety of the structure. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is a well-established measurement technology for buildings and structures. However, TLS has limitations in accurately measuring very small defects, such as cracks narrower than 1 mm, which necessitates the use of supplementary technologies. This paper presents an innovative approach to the comprehensive measurement of small cracks and defects by integrating a handheld 3D laser scanner (HLS) and high-resolution handheld digital microscope (HDM) as complementary tools for TLS measurements. Combining these technologies enables the collection of comprehensive data across multiple scales with varying levels of accuracy, from large areas to microscopic details, thereby enhancing diagnostic precision and efficiency in civil engineering applications. To address the mobility limitations of HLS measurements, a custom-designed backpack was developed and manufactured to facilitate such studies. The proposed hybrid approach to surveying building structures proved to be efficient, precise, reliable, and fast, ultimately offering a robust solution for advanced building diagnostics in civil engineering.