Introduction
In 2021, L.O.D. 600 Construction Technology Services undertook a significant project that combined modern technology with historical preservation. We provided LiDAR scanning services for the Great Falls Civic Center, a registered historical building constructed in the 1930s. This project highlights the critical role of advanced scanning and modeling technologies in renovating historical buildings while preserving their original charm.
The Project
The Great Falls Civic Center, with its beautiful façade and intricate stone panels, required extensive repairs to restore its former glory. Our team was brought in to scan the entire exterior of the building, capturing every detail necessary for the restoration. The LiDAR scanning data was used to create fabrication-level drawings for all the stone panels, ensuring precision in the renovation process.
LiDAR Scanning and Historical Preservation
LiDAR scanning proved to be an invaluable tool in this project. The high-resolution scans allowed us to capture intricate details of the building’s exterior, which was crucial for maintaining the historical look. The data collected enabled us to build an accurate as-built model of the existing panels, which served as the foundation for our renovation plans.
Fabrication and Modular Construction
One of the primary goals of this project was to facilitate modular construction. By keeping the stone panels consistent in size and cleaning up panel joints to ensure uniformity, we were able to streamline the installation process. The panels were fabricated out of state, shipped to the project site, and installed with meticulous attention to detail. Our shop drawings clearly illustrated the differences between the existing and new panels, ensuring that the historical aesthetics were preserved while implementing modern construction techniques.
The Importance of BIM and LOD 450
Building Information Modeling (BIM) played a pivotal role in this project. By integrating the LiDAR scan data into our BIM systems, we were able to create detailed models that informed every step of the renovation. The Level of Development (LOD) 450 models provided a high level of detail, essential for the fabrication and installation of the stone panels. This approach not only ensured accuracy but also enhanced the efficiency of the entire process.
Conclusion
The renovation of the Great Falls Civic Center is a testament to the power of combining historical preservation with modern technology. At L.O.D. 600 Construction Technology Services, we are proud to leverage LiDAR scanning, BIM, and LOD 450 to deliver exceptional results for historical renovation projects. Our work on this project showcases our commitment to maintaining the integrity of historical buildings while employing innovative solutions to meet contemporary construction standards.