In the dynamic construction landscape, digitisation and the implementation of BIM methodologies are revolutionising the way projects are planned, executed and managed. The integration of cutting-edge technologies, together with the Scan to BIM process, ushers in a new era of efficiency, accuracy and collaboration.

We will explain below the steps and advantages of the Scan to BIM process, as carried out by Popp & Associții BIM Technologies team using Autodesk solutions provided by Graitec Romania. Scan to BIM is the process of digitally capturing an existing building/site using a 3D laser scanner and using the information to create a BIM model.

So, the first step in this process is gathering the information from the field using 3D laser scanning, a non-invasive technology for measuring a building, area of land or object that provides fast and accurate results for any type of space, including those that are difficult to access.

For capturing the data, our team uses one of the most powerful devices on the market today. A timely solution so that a large volume of information is accessible in a relatively short time, significantly reducing the resources needed for this step compared to the traditional method of measurement.

After collecting the point clouds, they are processed and interpreted by our team of engineers and architects using FaroScene, Recap and Autodesk Revit software, resulting in an information model of the scanned building. Modelling in Autodesk Revit simplifies this process, as it is a tool that supports collaborative working and multidisciplinary modelling, reducing potential errors that can occur between specialties, another advantage for the clients.

Depending on the requirements and the level of detail desired, the client is provided with: 2D plans, 2D cross or longitudinal sections, facade details, 3D views, 3D geometric model or BIM/Digital Twin model.

Also, with the help of Graitec Romania we offer our clients access on the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform, with a personal account; they have the opportunity to view the 3D information model and actively engage in the process, benefiting permanently from the advice of our specialists.

Information Management is carried out under the coordination of one of the accredited BIM managers in our team, using the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform, where specific working procedures are created for the Scan to BIM process.

The final product of the process is the BIM model which includes, in addition to the 3D geometric representation, information about architectural and structural elements: quantities dimensions and their properties, building materials used, quantities and properties, architectural details.

Depending on the Use Case of the project, the model can also be used as a basis for creating a Record Model, Digital Twin. Once created, the data can be updated, ensuring traceability of changes throughout the lifecycle.

The data we provide in the BIM model brings advantages to our clients, from reducing the time and cost assigned to the project to making energy consumption more efficient, reducing the carbon footprint of the building in question. Whether it’s for refurbishment, consolidation, renovation or performance monitoring, having a model resulting from the Scan to BIM process guarantees the authenticity of the building data and the accuracy of the decisions made. Moreover, the digital representation of buildings as BIM models brings advantages in the exploitation of the whole built heritage and the city.