As mentioned in the previous article, SCAN to BIM process for the benefit of clients, the first stage of this process is 3D laser scanning, a method that has brought about a radical change in the way construction is approached.

With the application of the Scan to BIM method by the Popp & Associații BIM Technologies team, our collaboration with Graitec Romania has also advanced to a new stage. With the help of Autodesk solutions provided by Graitec Romania, we have increased productivity, improved communication between team members and collaboration between specialties, and our clients have benefited from efficient and accurate results in a short time, with real-time access to the project progress.

We’ll now explain what 3D laser scanning is, what the advantages of this method are, and what types of work it can be used for.

3D laser scanning is the non-invasive technology for measuring an existing or under-construction building, an area of land, or an object, regardless of size or complexity. Compared to the traditional method of measurement, the results obtained have a maximum degree of accuracy after only one scanning session of the target, making it the appropriate solution for any type of space, including those that are difficult to access.

Our team, coordinated by Eng. Marius Ștefan, team leader of field works, has the experience of more than 100.000 sqm scanned in just one year of activity. Every corner and every detail is meticulously recorded, safely and without affecting the work of those in the building if it is operational. Using 3D laser scanning, our colleagues have accurately captured the reality for targets such as airports, medical facilities, educational or cultural institutions, and residential buildings, some of which are listed as historical monuments or located in protected areas.

For data collection, our team uses one of the most powerful devices on the market today. With exceptional data capture efficiency, quality, and accuracy, the equipment used has a scanning range of up to 70m, can be remotely controlled using your smartphone, and includes a stable and fast wireless workflow.

Advantages of 3D laser scanning in the process of collecting and interpreting field data compared to traditional data collection and processing:

– Reduction of time spent on measurements (for example, for a residential building with a total floor area of 36,240 sqm, comprising 523 apartments on the upper floors and several commercial spaces on the ground floor, the Scan to BIM method consumed three times less resources);

– Cost reduction;

– Avoiding human error;

– Accuracy and precision of the information obtained;

– Compatibility with computer software (reduced time for importing data into computer software for analytical modeling);

– The ability to access any space, remotely, without any danger to the scanner and without interrupting the work of those working in the building;

– 3D view of the scanned object or building (virtual tour);

– Early correction of errors that may occur in the execution;

– Better management of resources and reduction of losses;

– Getting the Digital Twin model.

As mentioned, 3D laser scanning has revolutionized how building documentation is carried out and how renovation and restoration projects, cultural heritage conservation, or facility management work is approached. The whole Scan to BIM process has multiple applications and is useful to architects, engineers, researchers, restorers, and other building professionals.

They rely on the information model resulting from 3D laser scanning for the planning of renovations, space or whole building conversions, restoration, and renovation of existing buildings, including the conservation and restoration of historic buildings, with faithful reproduction of complex architectural details, sculptures, and ornamental elements.

The data obtained from 3D laser scanning is also useful for documenting the work stages for buildings under construction and generating the As-Built model, thus ensuring that the project was completed according to the approved plans.

Moreover, the resulting Digital Twin model is extremely useful in the facility management process. Once a building is built or renovated, the 3D laser scan data continues to be used for its management and maintenance, streamlining maintenance activities and reducing costs in the long run.

In short, 3D laser scanning provides accurate data in less time than the traditional collection method. As the first step in the Scan to BIM process, 3D laser scanning lays the foundation for informed decision-making and increases the effectiveness of the different stages in the lifecycle of a building.