ADVANTAGES OF SCAN TO BIM
- Collecting data with a 3D laser scanner;
- Bringing this data back to the design office;
- Using it in the BIM process.
WHY DO CONTRACTORS USE 3D LASER SCANNING?
3D laser scanning allows contractors to collect the as-is conditions on a project site quickly to provide both accurate and up-to-date data that is valuable throughout the different design and construction stages. It is then used to verify as-built models, monitor progress on a project, create as-built models for existing structures or to augment missing design data. Many projects now require a contractor to deliver a point cloud as a final project deliverable to document the location of new construction for the building owner.
HOW DOES SCAN TO BIM WORK?
Thanks to modern 3D scanning technology, contractors are able to collect field data with high speed and accuracy. The 3D laser scanner is placed on a tripod and contains an eye-safe laser rotating at high speed. As the laser beam hits a solid surface, the position relative to the scanner is recorded as a X,Y,Z coordinate (also known as a “point”). Millions of these points together make up a highly accurate digital picture, commonly referred to as a point cloud. After the scanner collects points, it will capture color images that are used to colorize the scan to create a realistic 3D representation.
THREE IMPORTANT STEPS OF THE SCANNING PROCESS ARE
COLLECTING DATA WITH A 3D LASER SCANNER
Send someone to the project site to conduct the scanning.The person conducting the scan needs to set up the scanner and enter some parameters such as the scan density or the number of measurement points to take with each scan.
BRINGING THIS DATA BACK TO THE DESIGN OFFICE
Before sharing the scan data with others, the individual scans need to be registered into one composite point cloud. Use point cloud modeling software to register, analyse and model your data.
USING IT IN THE BIM PROCESS
By using the accuracy and speed of 3D laser scanning in a BIM process, information flows (almost) seamlessly from field to office, allowing contractors to create constructible models in no time.There is no doubt that Scan to BIM is transforming the way contractors work today, putting both data and connected content into the heart of the construction process.
