Scan to BIM

How is a Scan to BIM Used in Construction?

January 29, 2025

Construction projects often face challenges like outdated plans, inaccurate measurements, or unexpected site conditions. To overcome these issues, many companies are turning to Scan to BIM (Building Information Modelling). It’s a modern approach that helps create accurate, digital 3D models of existing buildings or sites. This process benefits project planning, design, and execution. But what is it, and how does it work?

In this blog, we’ll explain Scan to BIM in simple terms, show its benefits, and explore how it’s used in construction projects worldwide.

What is Scan to BIM?

Scan to BIM is a procedure that uses a laser scan, also known as a point cloud, to construct a digital twin of the building, which is a BIM model with the appropriate parameters connected to its components. The procedure might be likened to creating a BIM model from CAD drawings; however, Point Cloud data is far more accurate and shows the object’s measurements in three dimensions. Thus, a modeller can physically model an item “on top of the” point cloud by measuring it directly in the modelling program. Using the 3D cloud of points makes it much simpler to compare the produced model with the “as-built” condition than it is with the 2D drawings.

The Scan to BIM method also includes filling up the necessary item information. For example, the model may be updated to include information about manufacturers of equipment or wall materials, if necessary. In this way, the generated BIM model saves all the data required for later usage, such as for maintenance and operation.

How Does Scan to BIM Work?

The process involves the following steps:

The first stage is to use a laser scanner to make the laser scan “on-site.”
The laser scan data is then uploaded to the specialised software (often supplied by the laser scanner manufacturer) after being moved from the laser scan to the computer.
This software automatically or manually stitches together individual laser scans taken from various locations. The term “registration” refers to this procedure. For the point cloud to be properly found in space and shared with other project models later, it must be located using the correct coordinates if necessary.
The point cloud may then undergo optimisation and editing. In this stage, superfluous points are removed, the point cloud is divided into distinct files, and if necessary, distinct scan regions and locations are created.

The Point Cloud must be exported to the file format that the modelling program supports (RCP or RCS for Revit) as the last step before the modelling process begins.
Revit imports RCP or RCS files. The point cloud data is used to generate objects in Revit with the precision and level of information that the customer or the project BIM standard requires. The BIM objects are updated with the required data.

This process ensures that the digital representation matches the physical structure perfectly.

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How is Scan to BIM Used in Construction?

Scan to BIM is used throughout a construction project to improve accuracy and efficiency. Here’s how it helps:

1. Renovations and Retrofits

When upgrading older buildings, having an accurate model is crucial. With Scan to BIM, teams can create a precise digital representation of the structure. This makes it easier to plan renovations, identify problem areas, and ensure new additions fit seamlessly.

2. Clash Detection

Construction often involves multiple systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. A Scan to BIM model can detect clashes between these systems before work begins. For example, it can highlight if a pipe might interfere with a ventilation duct, saving time and money on-site.

3. Quality Assurance

Scan to BIM allows for frequent checks during construction. By comparing the model to the actual work completed, teams can ensure everything is built correctly. This reduces errors and ensures the project stays on track.

4. Historical Preservation

For heritage buildings, Scan to BIM provides a detailed record of the structure. This helps preserve the original design while making necessary repairs or upgrades.

5. Facility Management

After construction, the BIM model serves as a valuable tool for managing the building. It includes details about materials, systems, and layouts, making maintenance easier for facility managers. Now that we’ve explored how Scan to BIM is applied in various construction scenarios, let’s look at the broader benefits it offers across the industry.

Benefits of Scan to BIM

Speed

A scan can cover 100,000 square feet of space in a day, depending on the amount of detail needed. After being taken, the point cloud can be processed in a matter of hours using cloud computing.

Accuracy

In scan-to-BIM methods, the highest levels of detail provide a tolerance range of one millimetre or less. This measurement is accurate enough to create carbon copies of the scanned building feature when metadata is embedded.

Enhanced Project Visualization and Communication

Visualisation of projects is enhanced by realistic 3D BIM models enhanced with scanned data. By making it simpler for stakeholders to comprehend design intent, these models promote improved cooperation and more efficient communication.

Creation of a Digital Twin

A digital twin is an extremely intricate and precise virtual model of a building or object. Connected sensors around the building gather data, which is then projected onto this virtual model. With maximum accuracy, the digital twin model aids in forecasting and charting a building’s whole lifecycle, from design to demolition. Scan to BIM facilitates the development of a digital twin.

Reduces Health and Safety Hazards

Laser scanners can gather data from hazardous or difficult-to-reach areas without endangering surveyors. For instance, rather than putting a person’s life in danger, laser scanners can be dropped into dangerous places like sewers.

Tackles Complex Shapes and Forms

With Scan to BIM, professionals can tackle enormous and complex shapes and sizes with ease.

Project Efficiency

Scan to BIM increases project efficiency through the simplification of workflows and the reduction of rework. It greatly lowers material waste, delays.

Overcoming Challenges in As-Built Documentation

Scan to BIM resolves common challenges related to inaccurate or incomplete as-built documentation. It ensures that the digital model matches real-world conditions, reducing risks and improving overall project reliability.

Supports Sustainability

Scan to BIM helps promote environmentally friendly building methods by streamlining designs and cutting down on resource usage. It reduces waste and aids in achieving projects’ sustainability objectives.

Conclusion

Scan to BIM is changing the way construction projects are planned and executed. By providing accurate, up-to-date information, it minimizes errors, saves time, and ensures high-quality results. Whether you’re managing a small renovation or a large commercial project, this technology can make your job easier.

If you’re looking for a reliable partner to help you with Scan to BIM services, feel free to reach out to our team. Our team is ready to assist you in making your next project a success. Contact us today.