What is Scan to BIM?
Scan to BIM is the process of digitally capturing a site with a 3D laser scanner and using the data to create a BIM model.
What is Laser Scanning?
Laser scanning is a fast and accurate method to collecting as-built site data and three-dimensional imagery. 3D laser scanners use LiDAR to measure and record precise locations and distances, ultimately producing a point cloud file. The technology enables the user to produce highly accurate digital measurements and images quickly and easily for use in construction and engineering projects.
What is BIM?
Building information modeling (BIM) is an intelligent software modeling process that engineers, contractors, and architects can use to collaborate on a building’s design, construction, and operation. It’s more than just a model. It’s a process of collecting and managing data throughout a building’s entire life cycle.
BIM encompasses not only geometry and spatial relationships, but it also documents building features, such as specific information about the type of materials used, the quantity used, and how those characteristics impact the building as a whole. BIM can be thought of as a database of information ranging from project materials and cost – to the 3D model after construction – to operation of the facility. This information can be used to actively manage a project every step of the way.
What are the Benefits of BIM?
BIM enables engineers, contractors, and architects to work on a single project from anywhere in the world. It condenses a plethora of information about every detail into a workable format. It makes for easier design, simpler coordination between team members, and easier structure maintenance across the entire built environment — and this is just the beginning. Some benefits of using scan to BIM include:
- Real-time access to building information
- Accurate project planning
- Improved communication across project teams
- Model-based cost estimation
- Visualization of projects in pre-construction
- Identification and mitigation of clashes
- Improved scheduling and sequencing
- Precise prefabrication of building components
- Reduced errors and rework
Is BIM Just for Large Projects?
No. BIM should not be restricted to large and complex projects. Comprehensive site information brings value to every project. BIM will expedite planning, improve workflows, and increase collaboration — which means that implementing BIM will lead to cost and time savings, regardless of the project scale and complexity.
Who Uses BIM?
75% of AEC companies use BIM to some extent. A study from Dodge Data and Analytics, “Measuring the Impact of BIM on Complex Buildings,” Found these results from AEC pros:
- 93% said BIM improved the quality/function of the final design.
- 88% said BIM led to an accelerated job completion
- 85% said BIM resulted in a reduction in the final construction cost.
AEC companies are realizing that planning virtually before beginning construction brings huge cost and time savings. The AEC industry is going through a digital transformation, trending to digital twins, and this means data rich 3D BIM models are a must. Plant managers are using scan to BIM for asset management and upgrades. General contractors are using scan to BIM for virtual design planning and fabrication. Architects are using scan to BIM to document and restore historic buildings. And, the list goes on and on.
The benefits of BIM are being realized by many AEC companies. It is a technical evolution in construction that facilitates project success.
