Scan to BIM: Essential Tips and Key Points

Scan to BIM services Melbourne, Laser scanning, 3D point cloud — 3D Point Cloud Captured by BLK360

Point cloud is a raw data and may not consider as a final delivery product. Point clouds are an intermediate media for projects. However, 3D models like BIM (building Information Modelling) can be created via processing these point cloud. The process of converting point clouds to BIM is called “Scan to BIM. This has become an important output specially for architects, engineers, and construction (AEC) industry.

Through the laser scanning process, a 3D point cloud is generated to show the as-built conditions of a building or site, which are then converted into a BIM model. This process is essential for various purposes to enhance project efficiency, reduces errors, and support better decision-making throughout the lifecycle of a project.

Here are important tips and key points to consider in a Scan to BIM project:

1. Understand the Purpose and Scope of the project

Define Objectives: Clearly identify the aim of the project how BIM model can be used in the project. Is it for renovation, facility management, or construction planning. This defines the Level of Development (LoD) required for the project.
Scope of Work: Review the project documents and establish the areas to be scanned. This also determine the type of equipment and resources required.

2. Choose the Right Equipment

Laser Scanners: Select a suitable laser scanner that can provide required details in point clouds. Laser scanners have a wide range and work differently. For example, laser scanners can be divided into terrestrial laser scanners (TLS) and mobile laser scanners (MLS). Depending on the project, you may need to use a drone or car to capture data from the top or on the road.

3. Plan the Scanning Process

Site Assessment: Review the available documents and check the site to identify any challenges for the scanning project.
Scanning Strategy: Write a detailed plan to include the number of scans, scanner positions, and resolutions required for the project to cover the area.

4. Data Collection and Registering

Capture Point Cloud: Start capturing the space to ensure all areas are covered. Check the lighting condition to ensure the area is covered with the point cloud and required quality.
Register Scans: Registering point clouds and create one single cohesive point cloud. This is an important step as the quality of the final point cloud is highly related to the quality of registration.

5. Convert Point Cloud to BIM Model

Software Selection: After you finished registration, you need to export the point cloud to data format. This depends on the software you will use for converting the point cloud to BIM.
Modelling Workflow: You need to choose a software for converting point cloud data into a BIM model. These software packages can have manual, semi-automatic, or automatic workflow for this process. There are several of these products available.

6. Quality Control and Validation

Accuracy Checks: After creating a BIM model from point cloud, the quality of the model needs to be checked against the original point cloud data. Ensure that critical dimensions and details match the as-built conditions.

7. Documentation and Deliverables

Detailed Reports: You need to provide a comprehensive report explaining the process including scanning, processing, and final BIM model. This is crucial for future reference and project transparency.
Deliverables: Ensure the final BIM model is delivered in a format compatible with the stakeholders' software and workflows.

xpatial

By following these tips and key points, professionals can effectively implement Scan to BIM processes, resulting in accurate, reliable, and useful BIM models that enhance project outcomes and support long-term building management. At Xpatial we have established a robust workflow of scan to BIM to achieve the required accuracy in a limited time frame. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance with your Scan to BIM projects!

Services