Client
SDA Consulting on behalf of the University of Manchester
Case Study - Lovell Telescope
Reaching New Heights: A Precision Survey of the Lovell Telescope
SDA Consulting LLP specialises in providing consultancy services for construction and surveying projects, often involving complex and high-profile structures. On this occasion, their overall objective was to capture comprehensive data on the Lovell Telescope to enable future works and commissioned Plowman Craven to undertake the complex task.
The project involved scanning both the external and internal structures of the telescope, including the dish and any additional rooms. The goal was to provide a topographical survey, a Level of Detail (LOD) 2/3 model, and 2D unannotated views for plans, sections, and elevations.
The data was required to serve various purposes, including supporting planning applications and potentially benefiting the university with valuable data for future projects.
Navigating High-Risk Challenges
The Lovell Telescope is a fully operational and continuously active scientific structure, subject to high operational demands due to its ongoing use in research and data collection. Its design and purpose require it to be maintained and serviced regularly, often under challenging and hazardous conditions. The site is particularly exposed to a variety of high-risk factors, most notably the requirement to work at extreme heights—reaching up to 85 to 90 meters on the outer dish of the telescope.
This presents a significant danger to workers, especially when compounded by environmental challenges such as high winds, narrow walkways, and limited space on platforms. As a result, the worksite necessitated the implementation of strict and comprehensive Health & Safety protocols. These included the use of safety harnesses and secure attachment of tools and equipment for all team members working externally at height.
Delivering Precision: Advanced Surveying Solutions
To meet the client’s needs, Plowman Craven delivered the following:
- Laser Scanning: The entirety of the Lovell Telescope, including the dish and internal rooms, was laser scanned using P40 and RTC laser scanners. The scan captured full-colour data, supported by 360° photography to provide a detailed, high-resolution representation of the structure.
- Topographical Survey: A survey was conducted up to the fence line around the telescope site, providing detailed ground-level data.
- Point Cloud and GPS Tied Data: The point cloud data was aligned to the Ordnance Survey grid and datum using GPS to ensure accurate positioning.
- Revit Model: A comprehensive Level of Detail 2/3 (LOD2/3) Revit model was developed for the telescope and its supporting structure, incorporating key features such as the ground-level track, telescope roller, internal lift, and control room spaces on the support arms.
- 360° Photography: The digital model was complemented by 360° photography and point cloud data, providing an accurate and visually rich representation of the telescope and its surrounding environment for enhanced visualisation and planning.
Delivering Long-Term Value Through Collaboration
Plowman Craven delivered the exact survey data requested by the client, fulfilling all aspects of the project. From initial deployment to site to final delivery of the model took just 12 weeks.
The client received a high-quality set of deliverables, including a detailed 3D model, topographical survey, and annotated visual representations of the Lovell Telescope, helping them meet their objectives for planning applications and future use.
One of the key strengths of this project was the collaboration between the survey team and the client. Understanding the client's requirements was crucial in ensuring that the data captured met all expectations.
The clear communication and right-first-time approach ensured that the deliverables were in line with the client's specifications.
Plowman Craven’s expertise and ethos contributed to the success of our project, while the comprehensive nature of the deliverables will help to ensure Manchester University’s long-term needs can be met. Plowman Craven’s ability to provide a "one-stop shop" for all surveying needs made the process efficient and seamless, and we now have the essential data we need for planning applications moving forward.
Jonathan Turner, Partner - SDA Consulting
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Plowman Craven has more than 50 years’ experience, we provide integrated measurement and consultancy services.
