3D LiDAR Scans for Bridge Damage Evaluations

High resolution ground-based optical-photonic images generated from laser scans provide detailed geometric information about a structure and simple algorithms can be used to retrieve damage information from the geometric point cloud data. Also called terrestrial 3D LiDAR, the laser scanning technology has great potential for bridge condition assessment, in particular, for damage evaluations. This paper describes several studies on quantification of concrete material damages using 3D LiDAR including mass losses due to vehicle collisions, reinforcement corrosion and surface erosions. The computed information can provide engineers critical measurements for further damage analysis, which is not previously available using photogrammetry or plan photographic techniques.