Project Overview


The WV Virtual Environments Lab is developing a tool that will integrate multimedia files in a central database to allow engineers to access the various file formats when analyzing a physical structure. The database will incorporate 3D laser scanning data, digital video, still photography, and additional metadata such as economic or cost analysis spreadsheets.

The user will interact with an off the shelf CAD software package from Cyra Technologies called Manage and the WV Virtual Environments Lab will develop the database which Manage will use to extract data for analysis within the Manage application. Cyra also manufacturers the scanner that WV Virtual Environments Lab will use to collect the data.

The proof of concept design and implementation of this tool will be using data collected at Cascade General. The database will contain 3D point cloud data, video and stills collected on site by Bob Campbell, and additional spreadsheet / cost analysis information provided by Cascade General. The intent is to use this tool for other scanning projects such as the current effort with Metro Machines in Philadelphia.


Short History of the Portland Wooden Dry Docks


* Five wooden dry docks were acquired in 2001 by Cascade General of Portland, OR.

* The wooden dry docks were built between 1920 and 1921 at the request of the City of Portland, OR.

* The contractor that built the wooden dry docks was the private firm Cornfoot and McIntosh of Portland, and the total value of the job was $761,345.

* The five wooden dry docks were built following detailed plans and specifications laid down by the Commission of Public Docks of Portland.

* The quantity of processed wood used for the job was 4,500,000 BF (~11,000 m3).

* The job was finished in the Summer 1921, and since then the wooden dry docks were employed for repairing vessels.

* The material used for building the docks was old-growth coastal Douglas Fir, over 150 years old. Part of the wood was preserved using Carbolineum Arrow, and the resulting timber and lumber were thoroughly inspected at the mills and by the Commission of Public Docks of Portland Engineer so as to be free of defects and sound.

* The timber used in building the docks was harvested from ancient Coastal forests from Oregon State.

* The timber and lumber were fastened using quality bolts, spikes and rod irons.

* The floating dry docks were partially immersed using a network of pipes, valves and pumps driven by motors.

* The wooden docks were thoroughly tested so as to be watertight.