What is Scan to BIM: Benefits & How It Works 2025
- PrimaVersity
- Apr 9
- 9 min read
This article will go into great detail about Scan to BIM, including what it is, how it operates, its advantages, industry uses, and some real-world examples.
What is Scan to BIM?
The process of creating a building information model from a 3D scan is known as "scan to BIM," as the name implies. It is the process of creating, developing, and maintaining a BIM model by digitally recording a physical place or site as a point cloud.
This method can be used for facility management, as-built documentation, and project extensions and upgrades.
Additionally helpful for comparison with the original project drawings, design plans, topographic registers, and more are the 3D models created from scan to BIM. In order to get the most out of their designs and the resources at their disposal, AEC professionals worldwide are spending money on BIM modeling services.
How Scan to BIM work?
There are five steps in the "Scan to BIM" process:
1. Identification of Requirements
Determining the specifications for the intended model is crucial before beginning the scanning process. The necessary architectural components, level of detail (LOD), and non-geometric features are some factors to take into account at this point. Additionally, it should be remembered that more design detail typically means more money.
2. Scan Planning
Prior to the capture of a 3D scan, a few crucial parameters must be input into the scanner's touch screen interface. Accuracy, required resolution, coverage, position, and angular resolution are some of the aspects that must be taken into account.
3. Scanning
Following all of the project planning, the actual space or site must be scanned. A 3D laser scanner, which gathers data quickly and accurately, aids in this process. Leica, Riegl, Trimble, and Faro are well-known laser scanning devices.
When the invisible laser beam strikes any of the materials or objects on the scene, their position in relation to the scanner is captured as a digital data point called a "point." When a number of these points are gathered, they are often called a "point cloud."
It is a collection of data points in a three-dimensional coordinate system that can faithfully depict an object's exterior or internal surroundings. A very precise three-dimensional digital image of the actual area or location being scanned is created using point clouds.
It's interesting to note that 3D laser scanners may also record the building's inside structure, including hidden fire, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. Professionals that want to learn about a building's internal operations without interfering with the project will find this useful.
There are several techniques to carry out the scanning process, including:
1. 360-degree scans: Depending on the region to be photographed, the scanner can rotate a full 360 degrees or just a small portion of that.
2. Time-of-Flight Scans: This kind of scannerless LIDAR (light detection and ranging) gathers data, usually over short distances, using high strength laser pulses that last for nanoseconds.
4. Deciphering the Scanned Data
After the scan is finished, the collected data can be transferred from the scanner to a basic USB drive and then imported into a computer.
Autodesk ReCap and other 3D modeling programs are then given these point clouds. The.rcp file format will be used to store this data, which can subsequently be imported into Autodesk programs including Inventor, AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, and InfraWorks.
5. BIM Modelling
After the scan is finished, the collected data can be transferred from the scanner to a basic USB drive and then imported into a computer.
Autodesk ReCap and other 3D modeling programs are then given these point clouds.
Benefits of Scan to BIM
The following are some advantages of the process:
1. Fast data collection: In just a few seconds, 3D laser scanners can gather millions of data points. As a result, the scan to BIM procedure is the most efficient method of data collection.
2. Improved Accuracy: In the past, surveying was done using hand measurement techniques. This method was laborious, and human error frequently led to erroneous results. By removing the need for human intervention during scanning, 3D laser scanning significantly lowers human error.
3. Assists in handling intricate shapes and forms: Professionals can easily handle large and intricate shapes and sizes when using Scan to BIM.
4. Creation of a digital twin: A digital twin is an extremely intricate and precise virtual model of a building or object. Data is gathered by the building's networked sensors and projected onto this virtual model. The digital twin model aids in the most accurate prediction and mapping of a building's whole lifecycle, from design to demolition. Creating a digital twin is aided by the Scan to BIM method.
5. Creation of 3D virtual assets: 3D virtual assets that can be utilized for future feasibility studies and collision checks with impending elements are produced with the aid of point cloud 3D models. The construction simulation can also be run with them.
6. Less travel: All parties involved can comprehend and investigate the place without physically visiting thanks to a digital duplicate. It is particularly useful if the location is located far away, freeing up design professionals' time to focus on research, conceptualization, and design.
7. Cost effectiveness: Scan to BIM lowers construction costs and helps keep projects on schedule.
8. Lessens risks to health and safety: Surveyors can be protected by using laser scanners to gather data from hazardous or difficult-to-reach areas. For instance, rather than putting people's lives in danger, laser scanners can be dropped into dangerous places like sewers.
Both public and private clients can use businesses that specialize in this field to handle the Scan to BIM process. The pipes, walls, slabs, roof plans, facades, and landscaping inside and outside the building are all included in the precise and parametric as-built BIM and 2D CAD models that these services provide.
Autodesk software for scan-to-BIM projects
Professionals may transform point cloud data into precise 3D models with Autodesk's extensive suite of software solutions for Scan to BIM projects. Important instruments that are included in it:
1. Revit
One of the best BIM programs for repair and remodeling projects, it allows users to build accurate architectural, structural, and MEP models using point cloud data.
2. Recap Pro
Focuses on gathering, analyzing, and modifying laser scan data. It seamlessly integrates with Revit and other design tools by transforming raw point clouds into actionable data.
3. Navisworks
An effective technique for coordinating models and detecting clashes. In order to resolve conflicts and increase project efficiency, it enables the integration of various data types, including point clouds.
4. Civil 3D
It is crucial for complicated site development projects because it was created for civil engineering projects and allows point cloud data processing for terrain modeling, surface generation, and infrastructure design.
Challenges and Limitations
There are some restrictions with scan to BIM that must be addressed, just like with any new procedure. Let's examine the difficulties and constraints:
1. Collaboration is required: because the Scan to BIM process is iterative. Every stage of the process requires the client's involvement. Communication and teamwork are essential. To agree on a given Level of Detail (LOD), there must be frequent and open communication with the client.
2. Software limitations: The majority of BIM design technologies, such as Revit, are intended for new building design, making it challenging to use them efficiently for documenting existing structures.
3. Weather restrictions: The Scan to BIM procedure is subject to weather restrictions and cannot be carried out outside in specific weather circumstances, such as rain.
4. Challenges of vast regions: Scanning huge areas is more challenging since processing large data sets requires sufficient processing power and storage space.
5. Busy locations: The areas must be empty for scanning procedures to work. If the locations are crowded, this could be a little challenging.
Industry Applications
Various AEC disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, fire safety, structure, etc., use scan to BIM.
Inspection prior to installation, planning and space optimization, structural analysis, conservation, scanning of distant items, project supervision, volume computation, and quality control are a few examples of how the technology is used in the business.
Let's examine some practical uses for 3D laser scanning for BIM:
1. Architectural: Scan to BIM is widely used in the architectural sector for site analysis and planning, as-built model development for new or existing buildings, three-dimensional inspection prior to installation, planning and space optimization, and site inspection of existing settings.
2. Construction: Structural analysis, construction progress tracking, deformation control, repair estimates, and coordination are some of the ways that Scan to BIM is used in the construction sector.
3. Heritage preservation: The discipline of heritage preservation also benefits from the use of 3D laser scanners to record the built environment. Reconstruction, restoration, and conservation are among its uses.
4. Civil Engineering: While experts in the architectural and built environment are the ones that use Scan to BIM the most, professionals in the civil infrastructure sector can also benefit from this process. Road scanning, volume calculations, clash detection, quality assurance, and technical adjustments can all be done with the scan to BIM workflow.
5. Facility Management: Here, Scan to BIM is used for the documentation and planning of structural alterations. With the help of video fly-throughs or walkthroughs, facility managers can run through the usage options for rooms even before designing actually begins.
6. Forensics: It's interesting to note that the "Scan to BIM" method is also applied in forensics, where it aids in the prompt and precise documentation of crime and accident sites prior to their reopening to the public.
Real-life examples in the Industry
1. The St James' Church, London
Industry: Heritage conservation
Services by: BIM
Software used: Trimble Realworks
London's St. James Church is a historic structure. It was scanned using a 3D laser scanner that was fastened to a regular tripod.
Making ensuring the lasers wouldn't harm the building's fabric or building materials was a crucial factor to take into account when documenting this heritage project.
The scan was transferred into Trimble Realworks, a potent software program that allows you to register, analyze, and create a 3D model from the scan, once the scanning procedure was over.
2. Mechanical Room of a School Facility, Florida
Industry: MEP Engineering
Services by: United BIM
Software used: Revit, Recap Pro
The project's goal was to replicate an existing mechanical room's 3D model. The room was scanned from several points of reference in order to do this.
After that, a 3D Revit BIM model (of an HVAC system) was created using the point clouds. Ducting systems, HVAC components, and unique Revit families/joinery items were all included in the model.
3. World Trade Center, New York City
Industry: Architecture Documentation
Client: Global Designer and Manufacturer
Software used: Faro Scene, Autodesk Recap, Autodesk Revit
The Financial District of Lower Manhattan in New York City is home to the World Trade Center, a sizable complex of seven skyscrapers. A Faro Focus 120 was utilized for scanning in this project. Next, a Revit 3D model was made.
This aided in simulating the suggested construction sequence, representing the project spatially, and illustrating the interdependencies among the systems. BIM-based visualization interfaces were crucial tools for ensuring process transparency because the construction complex was dispersed.
Future Scope
With the development of Scan to BIM, numerous contemporary technologies have emerged. In addition to expanding their regions of use, the technologies have significantly decreased scanning times. Among the newest technologies are:
1. LIDAR
One tool that uses LIDAR technology to achieve 3D space scanning is the LiDAR 3D scanner. Multiple laser beams are emitted by it, aiding in the measurement of the object's distance from the sensor. Examining the earth's surface, evaluating data about the ground surface, building a digital twin of an object, and outlining various geographical data are some of its uses. The following categories apply to LiDAR's practical uses:
1. The Environment: These applications include coastal erosion monitoring, forestry carbon stocks, and flood risk mapping.
2. Automotive: Autonomous vehicle navigation is aided by smaller, low-range LiDAR scanners.
3. Space Travel: It's interesting to note that NASA has identified LiDAR as essential to their ability to successfully land lunar vehicles.
Benefits of LIDAR:
Weather resilient: Even under difficult weather and illumination situations, LiDAR provides accurate 3D measurement data over short to long ranges.
Resolution and Accuracy: LiDAR produces enormous volumes of measurements in a matter of seconds. As a result, it is centimeter exact.
2. Mobile Laser Scanning
A laser system installed on moving vehicles, such as buses, cars, trucks, or even unmanned aerial aircraft, is used in this land surveying technique. This scanning method is mostly used to scan infrastructure, cityscapes, landscapes, etc.
Benefits of Mobile Laser Scanning:
No GPS Needed: GPS is not necessary for the orientation or recording of contemporary mobile laser scanning devices. Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technology is used to accomplish this.
Saved time: When capturing a building with a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS), it is necessary to repeatedly arrange the scanner position, set it up, and take it down. This extra time is saved by using a mobile laser scanner. Mobile mapping devices provide a 10X speedup over terrestrial scanning in most projects.
BIM helps create 3D virtual assets using the data collected by the 3D laser scanners. Building budget overruns are less likely when an accurate Bill of Materials is calculated with the help of the BIM data. Do you want to start using BIM right away? Enroll to PrimaVersity
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