Looking to save time, energy, and money? Here's the ultimate scanning guide of everything you need to know about 3D laser scanning in construction. Every Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) professional would significantly benefit from 3D laser scanning services. The use of laser scanning has slowly taken over the AEC industry. With the integration of BIM software and 3D scanning services, it seems like the perfect solution for many problems encountered in the profession.
As every AEC professional knows, accurate as-built building information is critical to any project's success. This information extracted from a 3D laser scanning service helps all parties involved significantly expedite the design processes, as it uses highly accurate, baseline information. It's even able to reduce rework/change orders, as it's able to detect clashes. It keeps projects on schedule and saves significant time and money.
3D Scanning in Construction
Real estate 3D scanning services capture a three-dimensional image of an object in the form of a point cloud. Shape components are recorded, as millions of digital points are virtually plotted, generating a point cloud. After the scan on site is complete, the point cloud data extracted is translated into a 2D or 3D format, depending on the clients' needs.
BIM, an acronym for Building Information Modeling, is a modern approach to architectural design where a 3D model facilitates the construction process for design efficiency. Architectural BIM Modeling makes it possible to visualize a building and foresee its appearance before the construction, thus, allowing for improved decision-making on the project.
Majority of firms in the AEC industry opt to use BIM programs, like AutoDesk Revit, for their projects. After the site is scanned, the data is registered and then detailed. The point cloud generated serves as an underlay for an as-built BIM.
The latest advancement in 3D scanning technology is becoming more accessible everywhere. They're already becoming critical tools for construction companies. Integrating a scan-to-BIM service provider, like Robotic Imaging, guarantees more efficiency and faster decision making. AEC professionals are better equipped to handle whatever conflict arises in these projects.
How Does LiDAR Scanning Work in Relation to 3D Modeling Software Like Revit?
LiDAR scanning is a technology that uses lasers to create a 3D model of an environment. LiDAR stands for light detection and ranging, and it works by sending out a laser beam and measuring the time it takes for the beam to bounce back. This information is then used to create a highly detailed 3D model. LiDAR scanning is often used in surveying and mapping, but it can also be used for 3D modeling.
For example, Autodesk Revit is a popular 3D modeling software that can use LiDAR data to create accurate models of buildings and other structures. LiDAR scanning is an increasingly popular technology due to its accuracy and ability to capture fine details. As 3D modeling software becomes more sophisticated, LiDAR scanning will likely play an even bigger role in the field.
How Can You Use LiDAR Data To Improve Your 3D Modeling Workflows in Revit?
As any Revit user knows, workflows are essential to keeping a project on track. One way to improve workflows is to use LiDAR data to create more accurate 3D models. LiDAR data can be used to quickly and easily create point clouds, which can then be imported into Revit.
This allows for more accurate coordination between different disciplines, as well as a better understanding of the site. In addition, LiDAR data can be used to create photoscanned textures, which can add realism to your models. As a result, using LiDAR data can significantly improve your workflows and help you create more accurate and realistic models.
Benefits of 3D Laser Scanning
There are several benefits to using 3D laser scanning services. Hand measuring is the traditional methodology that dominated the field, just due to lack of technology. The process can be very laborious and calculation errors are common. Also, multiple site visits are required to get dimensions, extending the process. But, let's just list a few benefits of 3D laser scanning:
Extremely Accurate Data Collection
The Scan-to-BIM service will be extremely precise and will provide you with the correct measurements the first time. Laser scanning is highly accurate as it makes the built environment using laser beams to capture measurements and even color.
Save Significant Cost / Expenses
Because laser scanning is incredibly accurate, you are able to detect clashes and other significant building problems upon receiving the BIM file. Because every component is modeled to your preferred level of accuracy, you are able to find discrepancies quickly and early on.
Eliminate Costly Site Visits
Because you are receiving an accurate model from a service provider, like Robotic Imaging, you can eliminate the need to visit the site entirely - which can be extremely tedious and expensive. We enable designers and professionals to spend their precious time in their respective offices doing less of this busy work.
Save Time
Robotic Imaging's quick turnaround time enables you to save time as well! What might take one person 4 site visits, 20 pages of measurements, and 2 weeks of modeling, Robotic Imaging's professional team can do within a week's time (depending on the project's scale and location). Let us handle the workload for you.
Improved Coordination
Because everyone on the project team is able to use a singular model from the beginning, this enables all involved parties to use the same information
Return On Investment
First, the ROI on your 3D laser scanning investment depends on the company you're approaching. For instance, if you are using Robotic Imaging laser scanning services, it can turn out great! Several other factors decide the ROI of 3D laser scanning, like the complexity and size of your construction project.
However, LiDAR can help you save costs through offsite monitoring and inspection, project planning, better administrative strategies, and tracking different project stages. All such processes otherwise require unnecessary trips to the project site, enhancing costs.
Poor management and inaccuracy in the construction world can cause potential bankruptcy no one wants. Fortunately, Robotic Imaging laser point clouds and scan-to-BIM services can help improve project accuracy and save thousands of dollars. Robotic Imaging is an experienced laser scan service provider that will guide you throughout the construction projects and help digitize them in the best possible way.
