3D Laser Scanning and BIM Modeling Helps Tufts University Renovate Data Center Without Operational Disruption

• An architecture, planning, and design firm was tasked with performing a major revitalization of the university’s primary IT hub, which had not undergone a significant renovation since 1988
• Tufts needed to improve the facility without disrupting critical IT operations and services
• The data center occupied a former school gymnasium and had little to no as-built documentation
• They needed careful 3D laser scanning to avoid disrupting sensitive equipment, as hazards such as electromagnetic pulses and the complexity of the space made manual measurement methods nearly impossible

• GPRS Project Managers used LiDAR-based 3D laser scanners to capture approximately 5,000 s.f. of the data center, both exterior and interior
• They captured above-ceiling and below-floor conditions with 3D laser scanning, equipping the design team with the data needed to assess clearances, cable pathways, and cooling distribution
• GPRS’ CADD/BIM Team delivered point clouds, an architectural 3D Revit model, floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, a roof plan, exterior elevations, sections, and on-site color images
• The architectural floor plans incorporated electrical components such as switches and outlets, along with room information, including room numbers and Tufts room-use codes

• The as-built deliverables provided an accurate existing conditions baseline that enabled the design team to plan renovations, coordinate system upgrades, and mitigate risk in a highly constrained environment
• The client replaced outdated equipment with higher-capacity, more energy-efficient technology to improve space use
• The TAB data center is now more resilient and energy-efficient, with the capacity to meet the university’s projected growth over the next 20 years
• 3D laser scanning was quick, safe, non-intrusive, and did not disrupt sensitive equipment or ongoing IT operations

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