Knowledge Base

Resource for Laser Scanning & BIM Documentation
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Orthogonal v. True Geometry

We can model to your specifications

As you probably know, no floor is perfectly flat, and no wall is perfectly straight. While our highly accurate 3D laser scanners can pick up these imperfections, our clients rarely expect us to model or draw them. In fact, the vast majority of our clients ask that we represent these elements as orthogonal, so they can have a more workable file that does not slow them down.

An orthogonal representation means that we show these elements as "straightened out" in the model or drawings. The files are still accurate, they just have a different tolerance than the scan data. This tolerance varies by client, project, and field condition. In the Revit files we deliver, a point cloud is embedded which our clients can turn on or off at their discretion. This gives our clients two sets of references at the same time - the point cloud and the model.

In some rare cases we are asked to model to true geometry. For these projects, our clients understand that the modeling costs will be higher due to the increased modeling time required.

Our work is driven by your scope. Please let our team know your specific modeling/drawing requirements before the project begins.

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.

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