Enhancing utility visualization: Techniques for better understanding subsurface utilities

Visualizing the underground utilities is important before starting any excavation, be it for a construction project, municipal repair work, or subsurface excavation. The utility lines that have been laid underground should always remain intact. Companies need subsurface utility mapping to get a clear visualization of the utilities underneath to plan the excavation work. This blog explains how to improve the visualization of underground utilities and discusses the different techniques involved.

The importance of enhancing subsurface utility visualization

Excavation workers may start excavating without technology and solely depend on hearsay. However, the consequences could be devastating if they strike a utility line. Getting an enhanced visualization of the underground utilities is recommended to minimize the risk of a utility strike. Utility mapping software can be used to achieve a visual representation of utilities. Enhancing utility visualization can also help with the following:

Safety and risk mitigation

A good reference to the location of utilities helps to reduce on-site risks and prevent accidents. It also ensures that the excavation is carried out according to safety regulations.

Cost efficiency and project management

Excavation works can reduce delays by better visualizing the utilities and planning accordingly. Better visualization enables digging in the right place, which also helps avoid unnecessary cost overruns.

Regulatory compliance

Any excavation work must be performed according to legal and regulatory requirements. To comply with different regulatory standards, the team should have a clear view of the underground utilities. The excavation can be planned based on the utility visualization to ensure that the utilities are not damaged.

Enhancing visualization using utility mapping

Subsurface utility engineering mapping helps to understand the underground utilities. The mapping software informs the excavation workers on the site about all the underground utilities and helps them visualize the accurate and up-to-date location. The application can be integrated with GPS and GNSS devices and a wide range of cable and piping locators. This system works together to provide a comprehensive view of the subsurface utilities, while also providing a standard and shareable data format.

3D visualization and modeling

Utility mapping tools provide a 3D view of the subsurface utilities and offer a detailed analysis of the utility coordinates and the distances between them. It helps the excavation personnel understand the underground networks and ensure they do not strike them. In addition, the 3D models of the utilities enable the site engineers to plan and execute the tasks efficiently.

Real-time data integration

Utility mapping tools show the real-time visualization of the underground utilities. They integrate GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) data and different locator data in real time. The data integration helps to get an accurate and up-to-date visualization of the utilities.

Collaborative subsurface utility data management

Utility mapping platforms enable a collaborative data management solution using cloud technology. Different stakeholders, such as engineers, supervisors, and contractors, can use the platforms to store and manage all utility data in one place. The updated utility data then helps to provide an enhanced visualization of the utilities. Field agents can verify the utility details and use the latest data to make informed decisions.

Techniques for better visualizing underground utilities

Different techniques can be utilized to enhance utility detection and utility visualization. Utility mapping tools are closely integrated with different systems and technologies to provide the right information on the subsurface utilities.

GPS integration

Subsurface utility locating and mapping use GPS technology to precisely locate the subsurface utilities. The real-time GPS data combined with the underground utility mapping offers an up-to-date visualization of the utilities. In addition, mapping software can be integrated with GPS receivers, GPR, and Electromagnetic (EM) locating devices to determine the depth of utilities. As a result, the risk of errors and costly repair work can be minimized.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) integration

Utility mapping tools integrate with GIS to enhance utility visualization. It enables a layered analysis of the ground to identify the different utility lines at different locations. It also enables utility companies to manage all the data in a centralized repository. The centralized data management ensures accuracy, consistency, and easy access to utility data for all the stakeholders.

Electromagnetic Locators (EML)

Subsurface utility engineering mapping combined with electromagnetic locators (EML) helps visualize electric cables and metallic pipes better. It is an effective technology for locating metallic utilities, finding their precise location coordinates, and visualizing them effectively. The utility mapping tool can visualize those utilities in both 2D and 3D space. The 3D models help understand the spatial relationships between different utilities, their depth, and any potential conflicts with nearby infrastructure.

Best practices for enhancing utility visualization

There are many methods for achieving a good utility visualization. However, to improve the visualization experience, here are some best practices to be followed.

Drill-down capabilities and data filtering

Too much utility data on a single visualization screen could be difficult to understand. Instead, an aggregated data view could be created where users can drill down into the specific details. They can see the necessary data, gain quick insights, and take timely, data-informed actions.

Users can also visualize utility data better by using different data filters. Some of them include adjusting date ranges and filtering by location. These methods help save time looking for data, enabling faster decision-making.

Visual hierarchy

Visualizing the underground utilities is necessary before doing any excavation work. To improve utility visualization, it is a good practice to ensure visual hierarchy and add the necessary visual indicators. For example, we can highlight high-risk utilities like gas mains to help excavation professionals focus first on critical utilities.

Improving utility visualization with PointMan

PointMan is a leading provider of subsurface utility mapping software. The software maps underground utilities such as water pipes, gas lines, and electrical cables. It accurately maps utility lines and enables better utility visualization. The high data accuracy and intuitive visualizations help reduce the risk of striking a utility line during excavation. Construction companies can also avoid costly reworks and save time and money.

PointMan’s integration with GPS, GIS, and EML technologies helps pinpoint the utility’s location and create a layered view. The spatial visualization enables a better understanding of utility lines so the excavation engineers can plan their work accordingly. A better visualization also allows the site engineers to identify the distance between each utility line and assess the excavation risk levels.

PointMan enhances utility visualization by combining accurate utility mapping, real-time data integration, and cloud accessibility. PointMan is a great tool for minimizing risks and planning excavation operations. Want to know more? Contact us for a demo today.