Abstract

Planning construction and estimating costs with Python, ArcGIS and LiDAR
Track: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Authors: Lindsay Giles, Joseph Pack

Construction of industrial facilities and access roads requires accurate estimations of material volumes to be excavated and placed. Traditional methods for calculating cut/fill volumes frequently involve detailed engineering for complex shapes and this process can be costly and time-consuming. To solve this, a toolbox was developed that uses Python scripting and the new raster modules in ArcGIS 10 to automate the process. The integration of the toolbox with LiDAR has enabled easier construction volumetric estimations and greater accuracies for construction planning and design as compared to traditional baseline cut/fill estimations. The toolbox has the capability to easily design slopes and incorporate modeled construction surfaces with cut/fill functionality, allowing true estimations of actual material movement and excavation requirements. Stockpiles, sumps, laydown areas, pads, access roads and other features can be created from 2D vector shapes and developed directly on a LiDAR surface, greatly reducing planning costs and improving cut/fill estimates.