Game on with laser scanning

Gaming in 3D

Using a Leica ScanStation P20, TetraVision collected hundreds of millions of points in more than 30 different scans of the 2 ha space. Combined with Leica Cyclone Register and Model software, the point clouds were registered and georeferenced to create an accurate 3D model of the area. Leica Cyclone Object Exchange (COE) was then used to transfer the data to Blender3D modelling applications. The game environment was created in TetraVision’s own software application based on the Unity3D game engine to provide the functionality requested by the electricity distribution company.

“This was our first project where the customer wanted not only a CAD model for producing a set of 2D documentation, as was usually the case, but a realistic and interactive 3D model with a special gamelike functionality,” said Mikhail Anikushkin, TetraVision general director. “Though we scanned the area in the summer, the customer took into account future projects and requested a reliable laser scanning solution. As the ScanStation P-Series is capable of working in a wide range of temperatures from 20 °C to + 50 °C, it can handle the severe Siberian conditions in winter, too.”

Based on the data received, TetraVision created a precise geometrical 3D model that was then optimised for real time interactive visualisation. Some 3D meshes were merged and others were simplified to decrease the total polygon count. The size of the final deliverable was only about 300 megabytes, and provided fast and smooth visualisation even on lowend computers.

Despite the simplification, the accuracy of the final geometry stayed high enough for all requested purposes. Global accuracy of the optimised 3D model was 2 centimetres across the substation, and local accuracy was less than 1 cm for a separate unit.

The “as built” geometry of the substation was complemented by 3D models of electrical danger zones according to current standards and regulations. All types of danger zones were modelled and visualised in the game as semi-transparent tubes around the conductors. Crossing over danger zone causes an alarm like screen flashing, tool tip and/or sound signals in the game.

Several 3D models of typical vehicles and workers were also added to the game. Players can move them arbitrarily across the substation to form any necessary configuration. With an avatar, players can conduct process steps to better understand how an activity should be performed. For example, in fire emergency scenarios, the player needs to perform special actions in the game to pass to the next level.

The game is also automatically updated to reflect the actual state of electrical switches. For example, a section of the substation can be switched off for repair, and the configuration of switches and danger zones will be changed in the 3D model appropriately. The actual state of electrical scheme can, therefore, be visualised in real time in the 3D model, including visualisation of danger zones and current location of personnel. Such as the case for the execution of repair works and the safety of operations that can be controlled remotely in real time based on the telemetry data.

Explore next chapter: Proving GBL for training

Story: Game on with laser scanning
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Gaming in 3D
Chapter 3: Proving GBL for training