Large-diameter pipeline spatial modeling method based on three-dimensional scanning of total station

By using total station 3D scanning and error correction technology, the problems of low accuracy and efficiency in complex pipeline measurement have been solved, enabling high-precision pipeline modeling and drawing, and supporting the smooth progress of engineering design and construction.

CN121982193APending Publication Date: 2026-05-05BAOTOU IRON & STEEL (GROUP) CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
BAOTOU IRON & STEEL (GROUP) CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-12-17
Publication Date
2026-05-05

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional pipeline measurement and mapping methods suffer from low accuracy and inefficiency when dealing with complex pipelines, making it difficult to accurately obtain the coordinates of the pipeline in space, which affects engineering design and construction.

Method used

Using total station 3D scanning technology, combined with continuous and segmented scanning methods, the 3D coordinates of the scanning points are calculated using trigonometric formulas, and the least squares fitting algorithm is used for error correction to generate a 3D model and draw a drawing.

Benefits of technology

It improves the measurement accuracy and drawing efficiency of pipeline spatial location information, resulting in more accurate and detailed drawings, which supports the smooth progress of engineering design and construction.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a large-diameter pipeline spatial modeling method based on three-dimensional scanning of a total station, and the method comprises the steps: erecting the total station at a preset position, and enabling the total station to scan target pipelines with different angles; planning a scanning path according to the distribution range and shape of the pipeline; scanning the target pipeline according to the planned scanning path to obtain scanning points; calculating a three-dimensional coordinate of each scanning point under the coordinate system of the total station, and converting the coordinate under the coordinate system of the total station into a coordinate under a unified coordinate system for practical engineering application through a coordinate conversion algorithm to obtain processed coordinate data; and importing the processed coordinate data into a three-dimensional modeling tool to complete construction of a pipeline three-dimensional model. According to the method, through high-precision measurement of the total station and a rigorous coordinate calculation and error correction method, the coordinates of all point positions of the pipeline can be accurately obtained, the measurement precision of the spatial position information of the pipeline is greatly improved, and a reliable data basis is provided for subsequent modeling and drawing.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of engineering surveying and modeling technology, and in particular to a method for spatial modeling of large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in pipeline engineering construction, maintenance, and the management of related industrial facilities, accurately obtaining the spatial location information of pipelines and drawing detailed drawings is crucial. Traditional pipeline measurement and drawing methods often suffer from low measurement accuracy and inefficiency when dealing with complex pipelines with varying angles. Manual measurement not only consumes a significant amount of manpower and time but also struggles to accurately obtain the pipeline's coordinates in space, leading to discrepancies between the generated drawings and the actual pipeline conditions, thus affecting subsequent engineering design, construction, and maintenance work. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the aforementioned problems, the purpose of this invention is to provide a spatial modeling method for large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning.

[0004] A spatial modeling method for large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning includes:

[0005] Step 1: Set up the total station at the preset position and make the total station scan the target pipe with different angles;

[0006] Step 2: Plan the scanning path based on the distribution range and shape of the pipelines;

[0007] Step 3: Scan the target pipeline according to the planned scanning path to obtain the scan points;

[0008] Step 4: Calculate the three-dimensional coordinates of each scanning point in the total station coordinate system, and convert the coordinates in the total station coordinate system to the coordinates in the unified coordinate system for actual engineering applications through a coordinate transformation algorithm to obtain the processed coordinate data;

[0009] Step 5: Import the processed coordinate data into a 3D modeling tool to complete the construction of the pipeline 3D model.

[0010] Preferably, in step 2, the scanning path is planned by combining continuous scanning and segmented scanning. Continuous scanning is performed on straight pipe sections, while segmented scanning is performed on curved and branch pipe sections.

[0011] Preferably, for straight sections of the pipeline, a scanning point is collected every 0.5 meters for continuous scanning; for curved and branch sections of the pipeline, segmented scanning is performed at 0.1-0.2 meters.

[0012] Preferably, in step 4, the three-dimensional coordinates of each scanning point in the total station coordinate system are calculated using trigonometric formulas; wherein, the trigonometric formulas are:

[0013] X1 = X0 + S × cos(H)

[0014] Y1 = Y0 + S × sin(H)

[0015] Z1=Z0+S×tan(V)+ir

[0016] Where (X1, Y1, Z1) are the three-dimensional coordinates of the scanning point in the total station coordinate system, (X0, Y0, Z0) are the original scanning point coordinates, S is the slope distance, V is the vertical angle, H is the horizontal angle, i is the instrument height, and r is the prism height.

[0017] Preferably, in step 4, the least squares fitting algorithm is used to correct the errors in the processed coordinates.

[0018] Preferably, in step 5, the model drawing paper is generated using the three-dimensional model of the pipeline in four view directions: front view, top view, side view, and isometric view. In each view, the pipeline model is dimensioned. The dimension annotation includes the length of the pipeline, the diameter of the pipe, and the bend angle.

[0019] According to specific embodiments provided by the present invention, the present invention discloses the following technical effects:

[0020] This invention relates to a spatial modeling method for large-diameter pipelines based on total station 3D scanning. Compared with existing technologies, this invention can accurately obtain the coordinates of each point on the pipeline through the high-precision measurement of the total station and rigorous coordinate calculation and error correction methods, which greatly improves the measurement accuracy of the pipeline's spatial location information and provides a reliable data foundation for subsequent modeling and drawing.

[0021] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows the principle of the large-diameter pipe spatial modeling method based on total station 3D scanning provided by this invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0025] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0026] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0027] Please see Figure 1 A spatial modeling method for large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning includes:

[0028] Step 1: Total Station Pipe Scanning: Set up the total station in a suitable location to ensure comprehensive scanning of the target pipe at different angles. Initialize the total station settings, including station coordinates, backsight coordinates, instrument height, prism height, and measurement accuracy parameters.

[0029] Step 2: Plan the scanning path based on the distribution and shape of the pipeline. A combination of continuous and segmented scanning is used. Straight pipeline sections are scanned continuously, while curved and branch sections with significant angle changes are scanned in detail to ensure a sufficient number of evenly distributed scanning points are collected. During the scanning process, the measurement data for each scanning point, including horizontal angle, vertical angle, and slope distance, are recorded in real time.

[0030] Step 3: Extract Point Coordinates: Based on the horizontal angles, vertical angles, and slope distances obtained from the total station measurement, calculate the three-dimensional coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) of each scanning point in the total station coordinate system using the principles of triangulation. Transform the coordinates from the total station coordinate system to the unified coordinate system (X, Y, Z) used in practical engineering applications using a coordinate transformation algorithm. Considering potential errors during the measurement process, perform error correction and data filtering on the transformed coordinates. Employ methods such as least squares fitting to remove noise points that significantly deviate from the normal data range, improving the accuracy and reliability of the coordinate data.

[0031] Step 4: Generate a 3D Model Using Coordinates: Import the processed coordinate data into professional 3D modeling software. In the software, construct a 3D geometric model of the pipeline using coordinate points, based on the actual connection relationships and routing of the pipes. For pipe sections with different diameters and angles, model them separately, generating accurate 3D models by defining parameters such as the pipe's centerline and radius. Smooth and optimize the generated 3D model to make it closer to the actual appearance and shape of the pipe. Add material and texture attributes to enhance the model's visualization and more intuitively display the spatial form of the pipeline. Draw Drawings Using the Generated Model: In 3D modeling, set different view orientations, such as front view, top view, side view, and isometric view. Based on engineering drawing standards and actual needs, set the layout and annotations for each view, including dimensions, pipe numbers, and technical specifications. Export the set views as 2D graphic files for further drawing editing and refinement. Add elements such as title blocks and title blocks to ensure the drawings comply with relevant industry specifications and standards.

[0032] The working principle of this invention will be further explained below with reference to specific application scenarios:

[0033] Set up the total station in an open location with good visibility, approximately 20-50 meters from the target pipeline. Based on the site conditions, set the station coordinates to (0, 0, 0). Select a distant, fixed, and clearly marked control point as the backsight point. Set the instrument height to 1.5 meters and the prism height to 0.3 meters. Set the measurement accuracy to ±2″ for angles and ±(2mm+) for distances.

[0034] (2ppm×D). For a complex pipeline approximately 500 meters long, containing multiple 90° bends or other angled branch pipes, a scanning path was planned. Starting from the pipeline's origin, a scanning point was continuously scanned every 0.5 meters along the straight sections; at bends and branch pipes, segmented scanning was performed at smaller intervals (0.1-0.2 meters) to ensure complete acquisition of the pipeline's feature points. During the scanning process, the total station automatically recorded the horizontal angle, vertical angle, and slant distance data for each scanning point, acquiring over 5000 scanning point data points in total.

[0035] 1. Extract point coordinates: Based on the recorded measurement data, use trigonometric formulas:

[0036] X1 = X0 + S × cos(H)

[0037] Y1 = Y0 + S × sin(H)

[0038] Z1=Z0+S×tan(V)+ir

[0039] Where S is the slope distance, V is the vertical angle, H is the horizontal angle, i is the instrument height, and r is the prism height, the three-dimensional coordinates (X1, Y1, Z1) of each scanning point in the total station coordinate system are calculated. Using pre-determined transformation parameters, the coordinates are converted to coordinates (X, Y, Z) in the unified engineering coordinate system. Then, a least squares fitting algorithm is used to correct the errors in the converted coordinates. After processing, the coordinate error is controlled within ±5mm.

[0040] 2. Generating a 3D Model Using Coordinates: Import the processed coordinate data into the 3D modeling tool. Then, by creating splines, the centerline of the pipe is drawn using the imported coordinate points. For pipe sections with different diameters, corresponding radius parameters are set, and the 3D geometric model of the pipe is generated using modeling tools. For elbow sections, control points and curve curvature are adjusted to ensure a smooth transition. Metal materials and appropriate textures are added to the model to enhance its realism. The model is rendered, observed from different angles, and any modeling defects are checked and corrected, ultimately generating a clear and accurate 3D model of the pipe.

[0041] 3. Draw drawings using the generated model: Set up four view orientations: front view, top view, side view, and isometric view. In each view, dimension the pipe model according to engineering drawing standards, including key information such as pipe length, diameter, and bend angle. Add numbers to the pipes, such as P-1, P-2, etc., and add technical descriptions to the views, such as pipe material and connection method. Export the four views as DWG format files. Add a title block and drawing frame; the title block size should be selected according to the drawing scale and content. Fill in the project name, drawing number, drawing date, and other information in the title block. Perform a final check and proofreading of the drawings to ensure accuracy and standardization, ultimately completing the piping drawing.

[0042] According to specific embodiments provided by the present invention, the present invention discloses the following technical effects:

[0043] 1. Improve measurement accuracy: Through the high-precision measurement of the total station and the rigorous coordinate calculation and error correction methods, the coordinates of each point on the pipeline can be accurately obtained, which greatly improves the measurement accuracy of the pipeline's spatial location information and provides a reliable data foundation for subsequent modeling and drawing.

[0044] 2. Improved drawing efficiency: The automated coordinate extraction, model generation, and drawing process greatly shortens working time and improves work efficiency compared to traditional manual measurement and drawing methods, and can quickly meet the drawing needs of engineering construction and maintenance.

[0045] 3. Enhanced visualization: The generated 3D model can intuitively display the spatial form of the pipeline, making it easier for engineers to understand the pipeline layout and direction more clearly. The drawings drawn based on the model are also more accurate and detailed, which is conducive to the smooth progress of the design, construction and maintenance of the project.

[0046] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A spatial modeling method for large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning, characterized in that, include: Step 1: Set up the total station at the preset position and make the total station scan the target pipe with different angles; Step 2: Plan the scanning path based on the distribution range and shape of the pipelines; Step 3: Scan the target pipeline according to the planned scanning path to obtain the scan points; Step 4: Calculate the three-dimensional coordinates of each scanning point in the total station coordinate system, and convert the coordinates in the total station coordinate system to the coordinates in the unified coordinate system for actual engineering applications through a coordinate transformation algorithm to obtain the processed coordinate data; Step 5: Import the processed coordinate data into a 3D modeling tool to complete the construction of the pipeline 3D model.

2. The method for spatial modeling of large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step 2, a combination of continuous scanning and segmented scanning is used to plan the scanning path. Continuous scanning is performed on straight pipe sections, while segmented scanning is performed on curved and branch pipe sections.

3. The method for spatial modeling of large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning according to claim 2, characterized in that, For straight sections of the pipeline, a scanning point is collected every 0.5 meters for continuous scanning; for curved and branch sections of the pipeline, segmented scanning is performed at intervals of 0.1-0.2 meters.

4. The method for spatial modeling of large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step 4, the three-dimensional coordinates of each scanning point in the total station coordinate system are calculated using trigonometric formulas; wherein the trigonometric formulas are: X1 = X0 + S × cos(H) Y1 = Y0 + S × sin(H) Z1=Z0+S×tan(V)+ir Where (X1, Y1, Z1) are the three-dimensional coordinates of the scanning point in the total station coordinate system, (X0, Y0, Z0) are the original scanning point coordinates, S is the slope distance, V is the vertical angle, H is the horizontal angle, i is the instrument height, and r is the prism height.

5. The method for spatial modeling of large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step 4, the least squares fitting algorithm is used to correct the errors in the processed coordinates.

6. The method for spatial modeling of large-diameter pipes based on total station 3D scanning according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step 5, the pipe model is used to generate model drawing drawings in four view directions: front view, top view, side view and isometric view. In each view, the pipe model is dimensioned. The dimensions specified include: pipe length, pipe diameter, and bend angle.