A Guide to 3D Laser Scanning Technology | Multivista

A Guide to 3D Laser Scanning Technology

The future of 3D laser scanning is here

Evolution has come to construction in the form of advanced hardware and software solutions that make everyday work easier, safer, and smarter.

3D laser scanning technology is one example of a technology that has gone from the wildest dreams of builders and developers to regular use on job sites around the world in what seems like just a few years. This invaluable tool allows contractors, architects, and project managers to increase efficiency throughout the construction process.

But what exactly is 3D laser scanning, and how does it work?

The Basics of 3D Laser Scanning

Measurable 3D laser scanning is a powerful tool for construction professionals. But how does this technology work in the real world?

What is 3D laser scanning in construction?

3D laser scanning uses cutting edge technology to collect, measure and document reality. The captured data is processed using advanced software to create highly detailed 3D visualizations.

These 3D datasets are extremely accurate digital representations of buildings, infrastructure, utilities, interiors and more to drive actionable decision making based on as-built conditions. They can also help streamline permitting and quality assurance, expedite timelines, or even power up marketing initiatives by allowing buyer “walkthroughs” from anywhere in the world.

Want to learn more? Explore these popular use cases

The Basics of 3D Laser Scanning

Measurable 3D laser scanning is a powerful tool for construction professionals. But how does this technology work in the real world?

3D Laser Scanning

Mapping real conditions ensures accuracy

3D laser scanning uses a combination of imagery and laser technology to capture real-world information in the form of a point cloud. But what is a point cloud?

A point cloud is millions of data points captured when a laser, emitted by a 3D scanner, hits an object or surface and its 3D location is recorded. These millions of measurements are collected in just a few minutes and form an accurate 3D representation of as-built conditions. This is often referred to as a point cloud survey.

Once processed, this data can be used to create 2D CAD drawings, 3D models and BIM deliverables that are accurate enough to build project estimates, guide on-site work decisions, and allow for accurate remodeling on existing structures.

3D Laser Scanning
Want to learn more? Explore these popular use cases

The Basics of 3D Laser Scanning

Measurable 3D laser scanning is a powerful tool for construction professionals. But how does this technology work in the real world?

What can you create with data from 3D laser scanning?

Plans and models generated from 3D laser scanning data can power numerous visual documentation processes, including:

  • Inspection
  • Quality assurance
  • BIM
  • Remodels
  • Engineering and design
  • Retrofitting, re-engineering and reverse engineering
  • Marketing animations

Plus, it’s accurate enough to prevent unnecessary trips to the job site for re-measuring — a great time saver for contractors on a tight schedule.

Want to learn more? Explore these popular use cases
Scan to Plan

Schematic and 2D CAD Drafting

Turn your point cloud data into 2D CAD or PDF plans.

Learn more about Scan to Plan
Scan to BIM

3D Modeling Services

Turn your point cloud data into 3D as-built models.

Learn more about Scan to BIM

The Benefits of Using 3D Laser Scanning for BUILDING AND RENOVATION

3D laser scanning technology is used to quickly and accurately generate data on as-built conditions, infrastructure, site layouts, and other key features on a job site. These images and measurements can be invaluable for ensuring the timely progress and completion of a construction project.

Mapping real conditions ensures accuracy

Errors and rebuilds are costly, and missed deadlines can quickly lead to lost profit. Having accurate, real-world measurements can prevent mistakes in a number of ways:

Tracking progress: Having an accurate picture of current conditions allows a project manager to accurately assess timelines and schedule subcontractors to maximize efficiency on-site. 3D laser scanning allows you to know what’s happening without relying on the hearsay or showing up to the job yourself.

The Benefits of Using 3D Laser Scanning for BUILDING AND RENOVATION

3D laser scanning technology is used to quickly and accurately generate data on as-built conditions, infrastructure, site layouts, and other key features on a job site. These images and measurements can be invaluable for ensuring the timely progress and completion of a construction project.

Mapping real conditions ensures accuracy

Quality assurance: Rebuilds can sink a project when as-built conditions aren’t an accurate representation of the blueprint. 3D laser scanning allows builders to check vital systems — such as rebar locations, in-slab HVAC, plumbing, and electrical — against the plans before they’re covered. That way, you can assure the quality and accuracy of a build before it’s covered over and set in stone (literally).

The Benefits of Using 3D Laser Scanning for BUILDING AND RENOVATION

3D laser scanning technology is used to quickly and accurately generate data on as-built conditions, infrastructure, site layouts, and other key features on a job site. These images and measurements can be invaluable for ensuring the timely progress and completion of a construction project.

Mapping real conditions ensures accuracy

Real world renovations: Real, accurate measurements are much better than relying on blueprint drawings for renovation projects. This is especially true for older buildings that may have previous renovations, deviations from the original plan, or natural settling and shifting that may not be accounted for in the original plans.

How four construction roles are using 3D scan data on the job site

Architects & Designers

3D laser scanning creates measurable data that allows design engineers and architects to verify as-built conditions remotely. Measurable images can be used to build cloud-based interactive project plans that allow designers to “walk” the job site from within the platform, even stopping to take a detailed look at relevant sections in the plan. Two of the most valuable services Multivista provides for architects and designers are Scan to Plan and Scan to BIM, both of which give unprecedented visibility and insight to users in the design and build phases.

The 3D scans are accurate enough that architects can use them to take measurements remotely from their web browser to cross-reference against the plans.

General Contractors

Perhaps no one gets more from 3D laser scanning than leadership on the ground at the construction site. Contractors, foremen, and other decision makers can use measurable 3D images to direct field teams, document progress, and plan for next steps before crunch time starts.

Contractors who already use a construction tech stack can use integrations to connect the 3D data to their project management software, where it can fill-in valuable measurements for change orders, punch lists, RFIs, submittals, and other essential documents. 3D scan data can also be used to schedule and prep subcontractors to streamline installation for vital systems.

MEP Professionals

Complex systems require accurate measurements in order to ensure a tight, efficient fit. Many ventilation systems and heating elements need custom-built mechanical components that have to be built off-site before they can be assembled and installed. Without an accurate representation of as-built conditions, contractors rely on blueprints that may not be true to form — and could lead to a costly rebuild.

Instead, mechanical engineers can access 3D imagery of a relevant area with accurate measurements (all without going on-site to collect information). The result is faster turnaround with no wasted trips or expensive adjustments.

Owners & Developers

For owners and developers, centralizing 3D laser scanning data in a platform like Multivista means keeping all project stakeholders in the loop. Using a secure sharing feature, they can distribute accurate 3D images to connect architects, general contractors, HVAC and utilities teams, other specialty subcontractors, and investors remotely from anywhere.

At a high level, the result is incredible time and resource savings in the form of reduced timelines, risk, and rework. Stakeholders and developers can collaborate on 3D images to manage quality assurance and plan for shifting workflows as the scope of the project changes. On the ground level, it also means ensuring the landscaping team doesn’t show up on the day when the water main is being dug.

Once a project is completed, 3D images are available for facilities teams to expedite service and repairs. Hand off these accurate images to O&M teams or third-party maintenance providers to keep the property in tip top working order.

How much does 3D laser scanning cost?

The cost of self-performing 3D Laser Scanning and data management can be highly efficient if you can effectively utilize the total investment in people and equipment, but if you are new to scanning, need to supplement your team or can’t be on-site at all your project locations, Multivista has a great solution for you.

Hardware & Software
Approximately

$20K - $100K+

Reality Capture Technician
Approximately

$50,000 - $70,000/ year

VDC Technician
Approximately

$70,000 - $90,000/ year

Luckily, working with a services provider makes it very flexible, fast and cost-effective to get the data you need. Our typical quote for 3D laser scanning on a small project generally costs up to $5,000, including both equipment and expert personnel needed to get accurate measurements.

But what should you look for in a 3D laser scanning services provider?

Comprehensive Services

Don’t choose a provider who doesn’t offer a full, comprehensive suite of features. A reputable firm can handle image capture, scheduling, date and location tagging, data management, cybersecurity, and even provide advanced capabilities like scan-to-BIM.

Experience in the field

There’s a lot more to 3D laser scanning than snapping a few photos inside a building. Anyone you hire should have a proven track record in the 3D documentation field, with appropriate training and in-the-field experience on real job sites.

High-quality technology

When you’re investing in 3D laser scanning, you want the best quality results. That requires high-grade technology, including both industry-leading software and hardware systems.

Thankfully, many software providers partner with the best hardware systems to get the most from their tools. For example, Multivista, a leading software provider, uses highly accurate laser scanning devices from Leica Geosystems to power its 3D laser scanning suite.

Local presence

When choosing a 3D laser scanning provider it is important to keep in mind the geographical scalability. If your partner has local presence, “boots-on-the-ground”, in most regions they will be able to better support your projects.

What is the Future of 3D Laser Scanning

3D laser scanning is a fairly recent innovation in the construction world, but already it’s permeating throughout the industry. As with most technological advances, one can reasonably expect for 3D laser scanning to become more and more accessible, even becoming something of the norm on job sites in the near future.

Already, 3D laser scanning technology is an integral part of the larger efficiency puzzle. It’s especially valuable for feeding massive amounts of visual data into AI image recognition tools. A lot of development is underway to produce machine learning use cases to reduce labor hours, accelerate project timelines, and prevent thousands of dollars in unnecessary rework.

As construction companies adopt more efficient processes to suit their new tech-enabled workflows, 3D laser scanning will become a necessary tool to efficiently manage projects, schedule teams, and complete quality assurance in a timely manner. Companies that don’t adopt scanning technology will find it difficult to stay competitive in the long run.

Quote
Mark King
Product Manager - 3D Laser Scanning

"How we use scanning today has only scratched the surface of possibilities. Combined with AI and automated extraction solutions, point clouds will be used to provide insights into real-world conditions faster than ever before."

Multivista’s 3D Laser Scanning services

3D laser scanning technology is well positioned to transform the way builders, architects, and developers work in the years to come. Even today, advanced software and powerful laser technology can create dynamic, fully measurable 3D models of a build site — unlocking a world of transparency and efficiency that is a distinct competitive advantage.

Of course, finding the right 3D laser scanning provider is important for getting the results you want at the right price. A provider that can combine experience in the field with top-of-the-line hardware, software, and technical expertise isn’t easy to come by — but it helps to know what to look for.

Multivista offers game-changing 3D scanning technology that’s versatile and affordable. Our software is paired with the RTC360 from Leica Geosystems, our sister company, to make capturing, processing, and using 3D point clouds seamless.

Multivista solutions are designed for the construction site, and enable advanced documentation of pre-slab conditions, MEP systems, hydronic heating, underground water and gas, as-built conditions, or just about anything else you may need documented.

See what Multivista 3D laser scanning services can do for your company.

Request more information about our 3D laser scanning services