The use of laser scanning in civil and earthquake engineering

Abstract

Laser scanning technology is one of the most e cient solutions for generating three-dimensional data. Besides its use in areas such as archaeology, biology, geology, architecture, it has been used for various purposes in civil engineering. While conventional methods are limited in describing the current state of a structure as they mostly involve point speci c measurements, the geometry of a structure can be rapidly described by analyzing three-dimensional point clouds to a high precision. Laser scanners can be also used as a tool for structural monitoring. Structural deformations/damage caused by earthquakes, or due to other static or dynamic mechanisms can be monitored. Moreover, realistic structural models re ecting the actual geometry can be created for engineering purposes. In this study, the results of the laser scanning survey carried out in the Edirnekap Mihrimah Sultan Mosque are presented. Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was built in the period of 1562-65 by Architect Sinan and has a special importance among his work because of its exceptional geometry. The rst laser scanning survey of the mosque was performed in 2015 and has been repeated annually since then. The current deformation/damage state is investigated with the help of the point cloud data. Three-dimensional structural model of the dome of the Mosque was created from point cloud data and results are presented. It is believed that this study will positively contribute to the use of laser scanning in civil/earthquake engineering and to the preservation of this important architectural heritage building.