Solution

3D Laser Scanning for Staircase Documentation

Project info

Project Name:

Staircase Design Firm based in Europe

Location:

Boston, MA

Objective:

Capture precise dimensions of the staircase for accurate modeling and fabrication

Project Size:

2,000 Sqft

LOD:

350

Technology Used:

Leica RTC360, TruView Virtual, Autodesk Revit

Category:

Architecture

Project overview

Client Overview

The client required a highly detailed 3D scan of an existing staircase for renovation and design verification.

Accurate measurements were crucial to ensure modifications fit seamlessly and to prevent errors during construction.

Project Highlights

1 Staircase Scanned with Precision
2 Skilled 3D Modeling Engineers
5,000+ Data Points Collected
Detailed 3D Model Created for Planning

Process & Execution

Initial
Scanning

The process began with the Leica RTC360 laser scanner which is a high-precision laser scanner that captures the staircase’s exact dimensions, angles, and spatial layout.

Data Processing &
Registration

Once the scans were completed, the collected data was processed in TruView Virtual and converted into a detailed 3D model using Revit ensuring a highly accurate digital representation.

Final Validation & Integration

Using an LOD 350 model, every aspect of the facility was reviewed for accuracy and alignment, making it ready for seamless integration into automation and expansion plans.

Challenges

Complex Curved Design: Capturing the intricate curves required high-density point cloud data for accuracy.
Limited Space: Narrow and obstructed areas made scanner positioning difficult requiring strategic placement.
Structural Inconsistencies: The staircase had slight deviations from its original design making precise scanning crucial for accurate modifications.
Unpredictable On-Site Conditions: Variations in staircase footings and alignment required a detailed scan to ensure the new handrails would fit seamlessly

Solutions
How the Result Was Achieved

Site Preparation – Highly reflective surfaces of the footing were covered with masking tape.
Tripod-based 3D Laser Scanning – 10-20 laser scans were taken to capture the stairs and surrounding area.
Scan Registration – The scans were carefully processed to create a detailed, accurate 3D point cloud in Autodesk ReCap format.
Scan to BIM – From the scan, an as-built 3D Autodesk Revit model was created, serving as a reference for designing the new rails.

Results & Benefits

Accurate Measurements: Eliminated manual errors and inconsistencies.
Seamless Design Integration: Ensured smooth collaboration with contractors and designers.
Cost and Time Savings: Reduced the risk of fabrication errors and on-site modifications.

Highlights

Staircase Project Execution

Solution

Key Insight

Nothing is ever built exactly to plan. Even though this staircase was designed with perfect curves and arches, real-world construction always introduces flaws. If you look closely, you’ll find misalignments, uneven footings or small deviations that can cause major issues later.

Since handrails are installed toward the end of a project, staircase companies often have to adapt to whatever condition they inherit. We’ve seen footings so out of shape that last-minute adjustments were the only option.

But with laser scanning and modern manufacturing, those issues can be solved upfront. High-precision scans capture every detail allowing handrails to be custom-fitted to warped surfaces seamlessly and accurately.

3D Laser Scanning for Staircase Documentation