High accuracy laser scanning and three-dimensional modeling are critical requirements of weld distortion research and ultimately to the management of weld distortion. The significance of these requirements is based on an on-going fabrication project designed to validate FEA predictions of weld distortions typical of large curved steel structures. As built 3D models of a series of 1,300 square foot test beams are measured using Coherent Laser Radar for the purpose of determining deformations caused by the thermal affects of welding, i.e.: bending, warping and buckling. This paper describes tools and techniques currently used to minimize the un-certainty of measurements and maintain accuracy during the processing of point clouds into surfaced models. Further techniques are defined for generating 3D parametric models from finite element analysis results, and utilizing these models for direct comparison to the as-built 3D modeled results.

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