EDUCATION

What is Point Cloud Scanning?

A quick overview of what we do and how we do it.

What is a Point Cloud

A point cloud is a set of millions of data points plotted three-dimensionally. These points create a precise reference of real-world objects or environments by capturing their surfaces. Each point carries x, y, and z coordinates, and often includes extra information such as color or reflectivity.

For projects involving existing buildings - such as renovations, retrofits, or historical preservation - having an accurate record of current conditions is often one of the most critical steps in planning and design.

A large theater auditorium with red seats arranged in tiers, ornate architecture, and a stage at the front.
An empty theater stage with maroon curtains and elaborate gold, pink, and purple decor, stage lighting, and a large speaker system on either side. Rows of red velvet seats extend toward the stage.

How it works

The scanner sends out a laser and times how long it takes to bounce back, which tells it the exact distance to each surface. We capture the space from multiple positions, and the resulting scans are stitched together into one model.

We use a high-performance 3D laser scanner designed for rapid, accurate, and automated reality capture, featuring speeds up to 2 million points per second and under-two-minute scan times. It utilizes Visual Inertial System (VIS) technology for automatic, real-time field registration, significantly speeding up workflows in construction, engineering, and surveying

OUR PROCESS

What a project looks like

1
Scan on site
We capture the building
2
Process & register
Align the scans into one
3
Check accuracy
Verify against tolerance
4
Deliver
In the format you need

FROM SCAN TO DELIVERABLES

The same scan becomes three outputs

The outline of a home made of dots representing a point cloud, with a horizontal line representing scanning

Point Cloud Scanning

A comprehensive three-dimensional scan of an existing building.

Line work representing a floor plan. Dots make up the top left corner, representing a point cloud

Scan to Plan

Transform point cloud scans to a set of two-dimensional drawings.

An illustration of a 3D cube with dotted lines showing its edges.

Scan to Digital Model

Transform point cloud scans to a 3D digital model.

Questions we’re asked

COMMON QUESTIONS

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime.

Have a building in mind?

Tell us about it and we can explain what a scan can do for you