Processing Workflows After 3D Laser Scanning

Understanding the Workflow of Existing Conditions Data: Processing, Modeling, and Delivery

The workflow for delivering accurate and reliable existing conditions data involves a meticulous process. From on-site 3D laser scanning to the final project delivery, a coordinated team effort ensures every step aligns with our client’s needs and expectations.

Philip Smith, Existing Conditions Technology Solutions Lead, helped us to understand the processing of 3D laser scan data, workflows, and methodologies utilized by his team to ensure accurate data registration and precise deliverables.

Below, we explore key aspects of this workflow, including data registration, deliverables, and delivery methods.

How is 3D laser scan data processed?

After 3D laser scanning a project site, the next step is to process the raw point cloud data by registering the individual scans together, cleaning up any noise, and then converting it into a usable format like a 3D model or 2D drawing. The processing of point cloud data can be for tasks ranging from simple visualization to detailed 3D modeling, depending on the project's requirements.

The Existing Conditions' processing workflow was developed with an understanding of the importance of precision, collaboration, and planning in architecture, engineering and construction projects. By leveraging 3D laser scanning equipment and software, and a well-structured team approach, Existing Conditions ensures efficient project execution and high-quality deliverables tailored to each client’s needs.

How do we confirm pre-project planning and scope definition?

Clear and precise scope definitions are vital for a project’s success. Understanding the area to be scanned, purpose of scanning, deliverables needed, and level of detail required ensure the delivery of successful 3D laser scanning projects that meet our clients’ expectations. Before creating deliverables, we review the project with our team.

• Sales to Execution Transition: The project scope is reviewed by the Existing Conditions sales and processing team. This step clarifies ambiguities and outlines site and deliverable requirements.
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• Flagging Special Conditions: Specific project needs, such as higher resolution scans for reflected ceiling plans or survey control integration, are flagged early.
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• Scanning Requirements: For example, distinguishing between color and grayscale scans ensures the correct mode is used on-site, avoiding the need for rescanning.

Do we need to place targets during 3D laser scanning?

Smith outlined that the team primarily uses targetless scanners, though they deploy targets in specific scenarios:

• Survey Control: Targets are used when tying into survey control provided by the client.
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• Integration of Multiple Equipment: For instance, when integrating data from the NavVis VLX with other laser scanners, targets help align multiple datasets.

Targets allow laser scan data to be aligned with survey control points or a global coordinate system and will aid in registering (aligning) data from multiple 3D laser scanners accurately.

How is the 3D laser scan data transferred from the field to the office?

At Existing Conditions, the captured data follows a structured transfer process:

• Initial Handling: Field crews offload scanner data to local machines, zip the files, and upload them to a Google Drive folder corresponding to the project.
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• Data Backup: Data remains archived on external drives for six months to troubleshoot potential issues.
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• Synchronization: Once uploaded, the data syncs to the processing team’s server, allowing them immediate access to begin registration.

The import process alone can take hours or days, depending on the project size.

How is 3D laser scan data registered?

The registration process is a collaborative effort, our team consists of two full-time registration specialists.

Registering a 3D laser scan point cloud involves aligning multiple scans of the same area taken from different positions into a single, coherent point cloud. Registering the individual scans together typically involves using a specialized software like Autodesk Recap to import the data and align the scans. To align the scans, the processing team uses the software to find overlapping areas between different scans where the same physical features are captured from slightly different angles, allowing the software to identify corresponding points.

Smith says unwanted “noise” can be cleaned or deleted from the point cloud. Autodesk Recap software can isolate and delete extraneous data or noise, such as reflections, moving objects, or background clutter, leaving behind a refined point cloud representing the desired project area.

A proper registration ensures that measurements taken from the 3D laser scans are accurate and the data can be exported for use in CAD or BIM applications like Revit or AutoCAD.

“Some clients desire only the registered point cloud, they do their own modeling, so they will ask us to scan something, register the point cloud and deliver the data,” says Smith.

“After registering the point cloud, we can also separate the floors into different views, so that clients can have a first, second, third, fourth, basement, exterior, etc. view to drill down into the data they need first.”

How are deliverables defined in projects?

A crucial part of any 3D laser scanning project is understanding the deliverables. Smith explained that before site teams begin their work, a detailed scope of work is established.

Smith emphasized the importance of understanding what the client truly needs, “sometimes clients request a model without knowing exactly what it entails. We guide them through their options and conduct review meetings to manage expectations.”

These review meetings often occur after scanning but before modeling, allowing clients to see preliminary data and refine their requirements. During review meetings the client's needs are translated into actionable tasks for the registration and modeling teams. For example, if a client requests a reflected ceiling plan, the team clarifies what specific details they need: lighting, equipment, fire sprinkler lines, MEP ducts, or exposed structures. "This ensures that we're not over-modeling or including unnecessary details, helping us tailor the deliverables and costs to the client's exact needs," Smith noted.

The Existing Conditions workflow contains clear task statuses to ensure the processing team can proceed without delays. Deliverables are prepared per client specifications, ensuring alignment with project goals.

Should clients utilize 2D CAD or 3D Modeling?

The question of whether to create 2D sheets directly from point clouds or rely on 3D modeling often arises. Smith highlighted the advantages of 3D modeling, particularly for quality control (QC). "QC is much harder with 2D drawings because ensuring they match the point cloud data is challenging," he said. By using a 3D model, the team can ensure accuracy and provide a foundation for other potential uses, like exporting 2D sheets or further 3D integration. However, he acknowledged exceptions for clients requiring native CAD drawings.

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What software do clients utilize?

Revit and AutoCAD dominate client preferences, with Smith estimating that 90–95% of clients request deliverables in these formats. ArchiCAD, though less common, poses additional complexities due to software interoperability. Smith explained, "Clients using ArchiCAD often require virtual site visits because their tools may not support traditional viewing formats like TrueView."

MicroStation, Rhino, and SketchUp are sometimes requested by clients for projects, these programs are generally not the primary platforms used for processing or creating designs from 3D laser scan data. Instead, they are used as secondary tools for specific tasks, often requiring add-on software to visualize or manipulate the designs created elsewhere.

How do we tailor our workflow to client’s needs?

Smith emphasized the importance of understanding client-specific workflows. "We track client preferences in our CRM," he said, "so we know their standards and can deliver accordingly." This attention to detail ensures that clients receive deliverables that align with their workflows, whether they work with Revit, ArchiCAD, or other platforms.

What if the client already has 3D laser scan data?

Clients typically fall into two categories: those with no as-built data and those with existing data that needs verification. According to Smith, most clients start from scratch or come with inaccurate data.

“A small percentage have existing data, but often it’s unreliable. In those cases, we’re careful to avoid pointing fingers and focus on delivering accurate scans,” Smith says.

When clients provide existing scan data, Existing Conditions evaluates it before use. If deemed usable, the team models from it but includes disclaimers noting the data’s unverified status to avoid liability.

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How is the data delivered?

Clients’ needs vary widely, from point clouds to intelligent 3D BIM models. Smith notes that some clients handle their own modeling and only require raw scan data, while others depend on Existing Conditions for complete solutions.

“We tailor our deliverables based on client requirements,” Smith explains. “For example, smaller jobs might only require scanning, but larger projects often involve 2D plans and 3D BIM models.”

Delivery typically occurs by uploading data, drawings, and models to a client-accessible folder on Google Drive, leveraging unlimited storage to share datasets. This approach allows clients to access data easily and forward links to project stakeholders without additional account setup. We can also use secure file sharing platforms to ensure files are shared only with authorized users.

Deliverables often include:

• Revit models or AutoCAD files
• PDFs of plans
• TrueView virtual walkthroughs
• Point clouds for integration with design software

View our portfolio of completed projects.

The excitement of digital representation

3D laser scanning and modeling of buildings bring excitement and value to clients, offering unparalleled insights into their projects.

“Seeing their buildings digitally is a game-changer for many clients. It’s incredibly rewarding to deliver such impactful solutions.”

Through a combination of advanced 3D laser scan technology and coordinated client-team effort, the process of delivering Existing Conditions data has become a refined art, delivering accurate point clouds, 2D CAD drawings, and 3D BIM models for every project.

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Existing Conditions 3D Laser Scanning Services

Over the past 27 years, we have measured, documented, and modeled over 10,000 buildings spanning over 700 million square feet across the United States, establishing ourselves as an industry leader in 3D laser scanning. Building professionals trust us to deliver digital representations of the as-built environment with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. Our dedicated Project Managers provide fast and accurate 3D laser scanning services and drone imagery services, and expert CAD and BIM technicians create custom, detailed deliverables. Our greatest reward remains delivering superior-quality scan-to-BIM work and knowing we played a vital role in our clients’ unique and historic projects.

How can we help you?

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