Renovating a building can be tedious. What if we made the process easier with an as-built model of your building? Then, you and your architect can make better design decisions with accuracy. This as-built model can be created with a pioneering technology in the AEC industry: 3D laser scanning. This technology enables reality capture of existing buildings with high precision for the creation of 3D BIM Models and Digital Twins. These 3D models can then be used for the documentation, renovation, and remodeling of existing buildings. This can help in improved decision-making and increased efficiency in case of renovation of buildings. For architecture and civil engineering professionals, 3D laser scanning has become an important tool to capture high-precision point cloud data of the buildings they want to survey and document. This comprehensive guide explains everything about 3D laser scanning services, its process, applications, and everything you need to know about this groundbreaking technology.
What is 3D Laser Scanning?
To obtain precise measurements of a building, 3D laser scanning equipment uses laser beams, making it a safe, non-contact technology for both surveyors and the sensitive structures they are documenting. The point cloud data which is then obtained using 3D laser scanning is then processed using point cloud to BIM software like Autodesk ReCap to create precise BIM models. This technology enhances accuracy and efficiency in the Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) Industry, reducing errors and saving time.
From multiple positions of a building, laser scans are taken. Millions of data points of the building are captured and processed into a point cloud, creating an accurate 3D as-built model of the building. The speed of reality capture by 3D laser scanners is quick. Our scanner Leica RTC 360 can capture 2 million points per second with 2-4mm accuracy.
How Does a 3D Laser Scanner Work?
To ensure accurate and efficient reality capture with 3D laser scanners, the building surveyor must ensure the following steps for the 3D laser scanning process:
Planning & Preparation
Project requirements and scanning objectives are defined and agreed upon between the surveyor and client before the scanning process. This includes the reason for documentation, 3D laser scanning equipment, best positions for scanning, and required density of point cloud data.
For example, a historical building might require high-density point cloud data for its documentation, because of the high detail of the building, while the documentation of simple room might not require that much point cloud density.
Data Capture
After the selection of a 3D laser scanner and the positions of scanning are determined, from the scanner, laser beams are emitted to capture point cloud data. Terrestrial, mobile, or aerial laser scanning techniques can be used for this process, depending on the requirement.
Data Processing & Point Cloud Optimization
Captured raw point cloud data is processed to align multiple scans into a single, cohesive point cloud model. A filtering-out process is carried out to refine the point cloud, ensuring a cleaner and more accurate point cloud model of the building.
Point Cloud to BIM Model Generation & Analysis
The optimized point cloud data is converted into a 3D model, which can be integrated into design or construction workflows using BIM software like Autodesk Revit, for building documentation, renovation, remodeling, and digital twin creation for facility management.
Final Documentation & Delivery
The final 3D BIM model is documented and delivered in required formats for use in architecture, engineering, construction, and other applications.
Want to explore how 3D laser scanning can revolutionize your project? Contact our experts today for a free consultation
Type of 3D Scanning Technology
| Feature | Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) | Mobile Laser Scanning (MLS) | Aerial Laser Scanning (ALS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Uses ground-based stationary scanners to capture detailed 3D data of structures. | Uses vehicle-mounted or handheld scanners for rapid 3D data collection along a path. | Uses drones, helicopters, or planes to scan large areas from the air. |
| Data Collection Method | Stationary tripod-based scanning from multiple fixed points. | Scanners are mounted on moving vehicles such as cars, boats, or backpacks. | Laser scanners are attached to aerial platforms like UAVs (drones), helicopters, or planes. |
| Best Suited For | Buildings, industrial plants, historical monuments, and interiors. | Roads, railways, tunnels, bridges, and cityscapes. | Large-scale topographic mapping, forest monitoring, and infrastructure surveys. |
| Precision | Very high precision with millimetre accuracy. | High accuracy but slightly lower than TLS. | Moderate accuracy due to altitude variations. |
| Speed | Comparatively slower lower, requires multiple setups and scanning positions. | Faster data collection due to mobility. | Very fast, can scan large areas in a short time. |
| Limitations | Comparatively time-consuming, requires line-of-sight, limited to ground-level data. | Affected by vehicle movement, may have obstructions. | Weather-dependent, limited resolution for small objects. |
| Example Use Case | Documenting historical buildings, interior scans of factories, and other buildings. | Mapping road networks, railway monitoring, underground tunnel surveys. | Creating digital elevation models (DEMs), urban planning, and floodplain analysis. |
| Examples | Leica RTC360, Trimble X7, FARO Focus Premium, RIEGL VZ-400i | Leica Pegasus: Two Ultimate, Trimble MX50, Topcon IP-S3, NavVis VLX 3 | Leica ALS80, RIEGL VQ-1560 II-S, Teledyne Optech Galaxy PRIME, DJI Zenmuse L1 |
Applications of 3D Laser Scanning in Construction
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Integration:
In Building Information Modeling, 3D laser scanning plays an important role in the creation of as-built models. The scanned point cloud data is used to create as-built 3D BIM models for further design.
Structural Analysis & Safety Assessment:
Civil engineers and construction managers can detect structural defects with the help of laser surveying services. Hazardous locations of industrial buildings can also be documented with the help of Ariel laser Scanning technology.
Renovation & Remodeling:
Accurate as-built models are required to proceed with the renovation and remodeling of an existing building. With traditional surveying methods, inaccuracies can happen. Laser scanning provides fast, accurate, and cheap building documentation for renovation and remodeling.
Clash Detection & Quality Control
By identifying design discrepancies early in the construction process by 3D laser scanning, quality control can be enhanced and project delays can be reduced, thus saving time and money.
Land Surveys & Topographic Surveying:
Mapping and analyzing terrain for land development projects, and creating detailed topographic maps for engineering and construction can be done with the help of 3D laser scanning.
6. Historical Building Conservation:
Highly precise building documentation is required for the conservation of historical buildings. And these buildings can be highly sensitive to touch. So a non-contact technology like 3D laser scanning is important for historical building documentation for conservation.
7. Digital Twining:
As-built conditions of buildings can be documented with 3D laser scanning and converted to Digital Twin for facility management with the help of the Scan to BIM process. This technology enables facility management for predictive maintenance and asset tracking for improved decision-making with accurate digital replicas.
3D Laser Scanning and BIM
3D laser scanning and Building Information Modeling (BIM) work hand in hand to ensure that accurate as-built models of buildings are created. This helps in creating as-built models for renovation and remodeling, and digital twins for facility management. Laser scanning captures detailed as-built data in the form of a point cloud, which is integrated into BIM software like Autodesk Revit. BIM software converts this point cloud data into an as-built 3D BIM model that represents the building’s existing conditions.
As-built model created with the help of Revit BIM software can be used for the renovation and remodeling phase to ensure that the new elements that are created in the structure, fit perfectly. It also helps in clash detection of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) as well as structural services between the new design and the as-built conditions. The BIM model created with the help of laser surveying enhances visualization, analysis, and documentation, making it a valuable asset for construction, renovation, and facility management.
Software’s for 3D laser scanning
The success of the 3D laser scanning in construction does not only depend on the scanner used but also on the software used for processing and analyzing the point cloud data received. Some of the most widely used software solutions include:
Autodesk Recap: Used for converting point cloud data into 3D models and integrating with BIM workflows.
FARO Scene: Designed for processing and managing scanned data from FARO laser scanners.
Leica Cyclone: A powerful solution for point cloud processing, visualization, and analysis.
Trimble RealWorks: Used for 3D laser scanning registration, modeling, and advanced analysis.
CloudCompare: An open-source software for point cloud visualization and analysis.
Choosing the Right 3D Laser Surveying Services for Buildings
According to the project requirements, accuracy, and budget, appropriate 3D laser scanning equipment for buildings should be selected. Following are the factors you should consider while selecting the best 3D laser scanning services for you:
• Scanning Range: Make sure that the scanner covers the required area efficiently.
• Point Cloud Density: Higher point cloud density scans offer more detailed 3D models.
• Portability: Lightweight and compact scanners are easier to use.
• Software Compatibility: Ensure seamless integration with existing design and BIM software.
Arrival 3D ensures accurate and best 3D laser scanning services with Scan to BIM integration and software compatibility. With cost-efficacy, time-efficacy, accuracy, and precision, our 3D scanning has ensured the documentation of various residential, commercial, industrial, and historical buildings in USA.
Arrival 3D – Precision Scanning & Construction Solution Provider
Looking for high-accuracy 3D laser scanning and Scan to BIM for your next project? Discover how Arrival 3D can bring your vision to life—contact us today!
