Real movement or systematic errors? – TLS-based deformation analysis of a concrete wall

Abstract Performing deformation analyses with high accuracy demands using terrestrial laser scanners is very challenging due to insufficient knowledge about the error budget and correlations. Terrestrial scans suffer from random systematic errors that degrade quality of point cloud. Even though vast majority can be calibrated, remaining or vary time temperature influence spatially neighboring points in same way. Hence, correlations between measurements exist. Considering area-based analyses, these have two effects: On one hand, they reduce effective number cloud, which mainly influences decision whether movement significant not. other caused by scanner lead a misinterpretation as object. Within this study, we analyze concrete wall (9.50 m height, 50 width), develop workflow avoids correlated deformations Therefore, first calibrate errors. Afterwards, use average two-face several stations eliminate measurements. This study demonstrates effects few millimeters are likely interpreted small deformations, it provides strategy avoid misinterpretation. inevitable either model while performing precise analysis magnitude millimeters.