Clash detection

Clash Detection is a powerful tool for the designer. It allows entire AutoCAD design files to be clashed against the point cloud data. The result of this Clash Detection process is a detailed and structured report which lists each interference. By selecting each result in the list, Point Cloud Manager shows the specific object interfering with the point cloud data. Clash Detection functions in both AutoCAD, MEP, CADWorx and AutoPlant environments. It is also fully compatible with design files which contain XREFs.

Clash Evaluation Overview

When the Clash button is pressed in AutoCAD, Point Cloud Manager receives the entire design file from AutoCAD. Bounding boxes relating to each of the modelled elements are sent across the link into the Point Cloud Manager environment. These are then analyzed for collisions within the point cloud data.

The modeled objects are viewable in Point Cloud Manager, and clashes are visually highlighted for the operator to review. Clashes can be assessed in turn and actioned. Clashes can be reviewed in the 3D point cloud, or in the BubbleView.

Clashing objects will appear in red.

The operator may turn off the clashed objects for clarity by toggling the CAD Objects button on the Visualisation menu in Point Cloud Manager.

Clash Detection in AutoCAD - Workflow

There are two options when clashing with AutoCAD. These are:

• Clash the whole Dataset. For more information, see Clash Evaluation Overview.

• Clash only the selected volume. See Running a reduced volume clash check.

Both these options can be used in conjunction with the Quick Clash function.

To access the clash options:

1. Select and hold the icon, then drag and release over the desired selection in the sub-menu which is opened.

Running a Reduced Volume Clash Check

This option will only clash the AutoCAD drawing against the volume selected, allowing smaller areas of interest to be clashed individually for added clarity.

Some points to remember:

• The volume must be selected before the clash is started.

• Reduced volume clash check performs a tentative check and is not saved for future examination.

• Existing clashes will not be displayed with the Reduced Volume clash results.

Quick Clash Evaluation

Ensuring that each proposed new element of a brownfield re-design is quickly found to be clash-free against the on-site conditions is of critical importance. Conversely, once a clash is located against a proposed design object, designers need to know exactly where the clashes would be located against the laser scan data. Swift action then needs to be taken to resolve this.

For a rapid tentative clash check, use the AutoCAD element selection tool to select object(s) to clash check against the point cloud, and then select the Clash Detection icon.

Run the clash check. When the clash check procedure is initiated, Point Cloud Manager will first check to see if any elements of the drawing are selected.

If Point Cloud Manager detects any selected items within the AutoCAD drawing, the user will be prompted to accept the clash check will be performed against the selected objects only. Select No if you want to cancel the clash check procedure.

Clearing the Clash List

To clear the clash list in the Clash Manager:

2. Expand the clashing sub-menu within AutoCAD by clicking and holding the left mouse button over the clash icon.

   

3. Move over Clear Clash List and release the left mouse button. A confirmation dialog appears asking you if you wish to proceed.

4. Select Yes to clear the clash manager within the Point Cloud Manager interface.