The AEC industry has become well-versed with the terms Scan-To-BIM, 3D Scanning Services or Point Cloud Modeling. If there’s structure that needs to be scanned for rework or captured before demolition, it can be done with Point Cloud Services. The adoption of advanced surveying techniques like Point Cloud Scanning Services or photogrammetry have transformed the way the AEC industry needs to visualize construction projects for design and deliverables. The entire process can be integrated with BIM technology to create precise information-rich models that can be shared with the entire team.

2019 will look at Point Clouds or Scan-to-BIM in various phases of the building lifecycle

Reality capture will go beyond 3D models and BIM, it can be absolutely leveraged in the AEC industry to determine accurate scheduling, costing, and maintenance protocols of a project lifecycle. There has been an increased focus on reality capture technology and solutions with Point Cloud Modeling. There are multiple enterprises that use technology or scanners like Faro Focus, Trimble, Geo Slam Zeb Revo, Paracosm, and more to determine spatial analysis, lend clear visualization, greater accuracy, quantity estimation, and reduced faults.

How do you define Scan-to-BIM?

Scan to BIM or Point Cloud Services are referred to as scanning a physical space or infrastructure in 3D space. This builds a precise representation of the structure with a Point Cloud with BIM software. This software representation is leveraged to design, assess, and evaluate project progress and success.

Scan to BIM is Quick

Point Cloud Scanning Services are a modern breakthrough in the AEC industry as it captures every minute dimension of the structure and delivers a faster, yet highly detailed representation of the actual structure for restoration or retro-fitting existing structures.

Point cloud data is extremely useful for project analysis as it is done through various processes. Multiple scans are taken various angles and stations, whilst secondly, each point cloud data is combined for post-processing requirements, and in the third step, a BIM authoring software is used to create information-rich models, also known as Point Cloud Modeling.

Scan to BIM is backed by modern technology

Point Cloud Scanning Services are useful for new projects as well, as it helps stakeholders create and maintain important records of the building or other structures around the new project. When it comes to time savings for complex projects, Scan to BIM technology can be record large interior and exterior spaces, or even electrical and plumbing installations, etc.

Surveyors are increasingly turning to the above-mentioned 3D scanning services or instruments that capture extremely detailed visuals and convert them into a point cloud. The magnitude of scanning in terms of area per day could be around 90,000sq.ft. to 120,000 sq. ft. depending on the complexity of the project(s). This technology is very helpful for buildings that are still in use, as terrestrial or mobile scanners can be used to cover or scan hard-reaching spaces or map true distances, and create an accurate master data-set of the project at hand.

How does it all happen?

When all the Point Cloud Scanning Services or activities are done, and all the point clouds are linked together, they are taken into software like Autodesk Revit or any other algorithm -based authoring tools that identify each point cloud and transform them into 3D objects. This helps designers and modelers with detailed information for floor plans, elevations, and even complex building sections.

The scan to BIM process can begin at any point of the building lifecycle, and it has proved to be extremely helpful to renovate older structures with enhanced precision and information transparency through Building Information Modeling.

Benefits of Point Cloud Scanning Services

The AEC industry operates at strict budget timelines; thus, it requires great accuracy and transparency for contractors as it reduces the risk factor in terms of time and budget, whilst it increases the probability for bidders to win the bid for a certain project(s). Scan to BIM is extremely compelling for long-term project savings through exhaustive collaboration and intelligent, information-rich 3D models.

Final thoughts on Point Cloud Scanning Services

By using 3D Scanning Servicescoupled with BIM technology, the entire information flow becomes seamless for all the stakeholders. It creates a great impact on every trade; be it onsite or office. Scan to BIM is transforming the way AEC professionals or contractors connect all the dots.