This guide offers an overview of the benefits 3D

scanners directly offer to MEP professionals

to help your business stay at the forefront of

3D SCANNING innovation and ride the next wave of technology.

AT A
AT A GLANCE
GLANCE

TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS

SCANNING ADVICE | V.2
 As requests for as-built information become more
prevalent, having a 3D laser scanner that can
provide quick and consistently accurate point
CONTENTS clouds of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC
or other project conditions can save time and
1 - Introduction
greatly improve accuracy.
2 - Background and history

3 - Workflow - scan, register, detail

4 - Choosing the right scanner

5 – Location, location, location

6 – The future of 3D scanning

Trimble Global
Locations

TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS

 As requests for as-built information become more
prevalent, having a 3D laser scanner that can
provide quick and consistently accurate point
CONTENTS clouds of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC
or other project conditions can save time and
1 - Introduction
greatly improve accuracy.
2 - Background and history

3 - Workflow - scan, register, detail

4 - Choosing the right scanner

5 – Location, location, location

6 – The future of 3D scanning

Trimble Global
Locations

TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS

1 INTODUCTION
As BIM is becoming more prevalent globally and pinpoint accuracy increasingly becomes an industry standard, more and
more people are talking about 3D laser scanning to achieve these new project requirements. 3D scanners provide a fast
and accurate way to collect large amounts of measurement data to be used in both the design and construction process.
This data can then be used to assist design, be applied to 3D model coordination or provide as-built documentation either
as point cloud data or 3D modelled objects.
Detailed MEP installations require a high level of scanning accuracy. Whether it’s a new-build project or a refit or
refurbishment job, the importance of this increases with the complexity and detail of a building’s layout.
3D scanning technology continues to evolve and is becoming more accessible across the AEC industry. This guide offers
an overview of the benefits 3D scanners directly offer to MEP professionals to help your business stay at the forefront of
innovation and ride the next wave of technology.
2
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
Although 3D laser scanning is at the forefront of innovation in the AEC industry, scanning technology has been in use in a
variety of sectors for decades, most commonly used in geospatial or surveying applications. The first instruments actually
came to market in the late 1980’s with the 1990’s seeing the debut of the first integrated commercial systems for 3D
scanning.
Since then, adoption has been rapid and growth unstoppable as both software and computer processing capabilities have
improved to make the technology more accessible to the public.
The first uses were predominantly to capture existing conditions in industrial plant applications where there were no
existing or poor plans, rendering retrofits and maintenance difficult. Over time, the quality and accuracy of scanning has
improved rapidly and data storage and processing speeds have also increased. As the technology continues to evolve
and develop, 3D laser scanners are now becoming more integrated in delivering project excellence throughout design,
construction and facilities management.
TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS
3 WORKFLOW
SCAN: The first step involves the collection of data and places a 3D scanning instrument in the field to collect millions
of measurement points quickly and accurately. The measurement technology is similar to the measurements taken by
a robotic total station where points are recorded with an X, Y, and Z value. The instrument will rotate 360° horizontally,
collecting multiple measurements in a 300° vertical window. Once measured, these points resemble a “cloud” and provide
an accurate 3D representation of the area that was scanned. The laser scanner is a line-of-sight device and will only capture
what it can “see” from one station setup. In typical applications, multiple scans are collected by placing the instrument in
different locations so that measurement data is gathered from various angles to provide an accurate representation of the
space being scanned. When all measurements of an area have been taken the next step of the scanning process is to register
the data.
REGISTER: The second step of the scanning workflow is to register the data. During the scanning process, two types of
targets are placed in the area to be scanned. These objects are either free-standing spheres or checkerboard targets
attached to a surface. The targets help to align the multiple scans in to one composite model by linking common targets
found in each individual image. A minimum of three common targets in each individual scan is needed.
In recent years, new applications have been introduced to eliminate the need for physical targets while scanning through the
use of planar-based (target-less) registration or cloud-to-cloud registration. Scanning software that is designed to register
point cloud data can then detect either the physical targets or perform the target-less registration to automatically “stitch”
together the individual scans into one composite 3D point cloud model. The detection of targets can also be done manually
using the point cloud software to “fine tune” the overall registration results. Once registered, the composite 3D point cloud
model can be either exported to other applications as-is or detailed using modelling software to create intelligent modelled
objects.
DETAIL: The last step in the scanning workflow is to detail, or model, the registered 3D point cloud data to create deliverables
for the project. Using modelling software, individual elements of the point cloud data can be isolated and 3D objects can be
modelled from the information. An entire model can be created using the registered data and attributes can be assigned to
the modelled elements to make them intelligent. The 3D representation can then be used to design, detail and understand
how new elements will connect to existing conditions. The main goal of the detailing phase is to determine how much of the
scan data needs to be turned into an intelligent model and only spend the time modelling what is needed.
1 INTODUCTION
As BIM is becoming more prevalent globally and pinpoint accuracy increasingly becomes an industry standard, more and
more people are talking about 3D laser scanning to achieve these new project requirements. 3D scanners provide a fast
and accurate way to collect large amounts of measurement data to be used in both the design and construction process.
This data can then be used to assist design, be applied to 3D model coordination or provide as-built documentation either
as point cloud data or 3D modelled objects.
Detailed MEP installations require a high level of scanning accuracy. Whether it’s a new-build project or a refit or
refurbishment job, the importance of this increases with the complexity and detail of a building’s layout.
3D scanning technology continues to evolve and is becoming more accessible across the AEC industry. This guide offers
an overview of the benefits 3D scanners directly offer to MEP professionals to help your business stay at the forefront of
innovation and ride the next wave of technology.
2
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
Although 3D laser scanning is at the forefront of innovation in the AEC industry, scanning technology has been in use in a
variety of sectors for decades, most commonly used in geospatial or surveying applications. The first instruments actually
came to market in the late 1980’s with the 1990’s seeing the debut of the first integrated commercial systems for 3D
scanning.
Since then, adoption has been rapid and growth unstoppable as both software and computer processing capabilities have
improved to make the technology more accessible to the public.
The first uses were predominantly to capture existing conditions in industrial plant applications where there were no
existing or poor plans, rendering retrofits and maintenance difficult. Over time, the quality and accuracy of scanning has
improved rapidly and data storage and processing speeds have also increased. As the technology continues to evolve
and develop, 3D laser scanners are now becoming more integrated in delivering project excellence throughout design,
construction and facilities management.
TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS
3 WORKFLOW
SCAN: The first step involves the collection of data and places a 3D scanning instrument in the field to collect millions
of measurement points quickly and accurately. The measurement technology is similar to the measurements taken by
a robotic total station where points are recorded with an X, Y, and Z value. The instrument will rotate 360° horizontally,
collecting multiple measurements in a 300° vertical window. Once measured, these points resemble a “cloud” and provide
an accurate 3D representation of the area that was scanned. The laser scanner is a line-of-sight device and will only capture
what it can “see” from one station setup. In typical applications, multiple scans are collected by placing the instrument in
different locations so that measurement data is gathered from various angles to provide an accurate representation of the
space being scanned. When all measurements of an area have been taken the next step of the scanning process is to register
the data.
REGISTER: The second step of the scanning workflow is to register the data. During the scanning process, two types of
targets are placed in the area to be scanned. These objects are either free-standing spheres or checkerboard targets
attached to a surface. The targets help to align the multiple scans in to one composite model by linking common targets
found in each individual image. A minimum of three common targets in each individual scan is needed.
In recent years, new applications have been introduced to eliminate the need for physical targets while scanning through the
use of planar-based (target-less) registration or cloud-to-cloud registration. Scanning software that is designed to register
point cloud data can then detect either the physical targets or perform the target-less registration to automatically “stitch”
together the individual scans into one composite 3D point cloud model. The detection of targets can also be done manually
using the point cloud software to “fine tune” the overall registration results. Once registered, the composite 3D point cloud
model can be either exported to other applications as-is or detailed using modelling software to create intelligent modelled
objects.
DETAIL: The last step in the scanning workflow is to detail, or model, the registered 3D point cloud data to create deliverables
for the project. Using modelling software, individual elements of the point cloud data can be isolated and 3D objects can be
modelled from the information. An entire model can be created using the registered data and attributes can be assigned to
the modelled elements to make them intelligent. The 3D representation can then be used to design, detail and understand
how new elements will connect to existing conditions. The main goal of the detailing phase is to determine how much of the
scan data needs to be turned into an intelligent model and only spend the time modelling what is needed.
4 CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCANNER
It may sound rudimentary but ascertaining exactly what it is you want to scan will determine what features and capabilities
are most important in a laser scanner. There are two 3D scanning solutions readily available in the marketplace today: a
If you want to scan large spaces
exclusively then a tripod-based
solution would be an ideal match
tripod-based scanner for scanning large areas and a hand-held device for small spaces and short range capture. In small
spaces, such as a plant room, or areas with limited access a hand-held scanner may be best. You can, for example, hold the
scanner up to a valve that needs to be modelled and quickly capture only the necessary data that is needed for a model.
for your requirements.
Similarly, if you’re working at height or scanning complex MEP installations with limited access, a hand-held scanner may
be your best choice. In the first scenario, a ground positioned scanner may miss hidden elements such as pipework running
above a duct and, in the second, the object you want to scan might be obscured by other equipment.

However, if you want to scan large spaces exclusively then a tripod-based solution would be an ideal match for your
requirements. In many cases, both a tripod-based scanner and a hand-held scanner are used together to ensure that a
robust and accurate composite point cloud is captured and produced. Don’t hesitate to ask for specialist advice before
investing in a 3D scanning solution. In addition to hardware and software, expertise should always be part of the package.

5 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Whether you’re using a hand-held scanner, a tripod-based scanner or a combination of both, it’s important that construction
teams capture scans, or station setups, from multiple locations in a room to ensure quality data is captured. In some
instances, only one scan is necessary to accurately capture a space; however, in most instances, multiple factors will
determine what constitutes the number of station setups. Factors including space size, complexity and accessibility are
primary considerations and even the technical capability of the 3D scanner can contribute. With this in mind, it may be wise
to evaluate an outlay on initial training, alongside hardware and software, as part of an original investment.

6 THE FUTURE OF 3D LASER SCANNING

As design and construction professionals gain access to 3D scanning technology through both software and hardware
innovations, the future of 3D scanning is exciting with limitless applications to the AEC industry. Two areas that are
positioned to grow rapidly are centred on virtual reality and construction verification. With virtual reality, companies are
collecting small area scans using a hand-held 3D scanner and then importing the scan data into a headset device for
visualization. The scan data is being used in the virtual environment to educate and inform both the design and construction
teams by immersing the project team in the “as-is” condition.

As this workflow evolves, look for larger sets of scanning data (i.e. entire buildings) to be visualized in a virtual environment
during both design and construction. For construction verification, scanning software is being introduced to the industry
that starts to compare scan data captured on a construction site with the 3D coordination model being used to coordinate
the building systems. The idea behind construction verification is to capture project conditions on a daily basis through 3D
laser scanning and identify what is missing, what has been installed and whether or not the installed systems meet project
tolerances. This type of verification can then inform project teams for billing purposes and to confirm the accuracy of the
construction schedule. As the 3D scanning technology evolves, the tools will become more accessible to both design and
project teams. The end result will be further innovation to transform the way buildings are designed and built.

TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS

4 CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCANNER
It may sound rudimentary but ascertaining exactly what it is you want to scan will determine what features and capabilities
are most important in a laser scanner. There are two 3D scanning solutions readily available in the marketplace today: a
If you want to scan large spaces
exclusively then a tripod-based
solution would be an ideal match
tripod-based scanner for scanning large areas and a hand-held device for small spaces and short range capture. In small
spaces, such as a plant room, or areas with limited access a hand-held scanner may be best. You can, for example, hold the
scanner up to a valve that needs to be modelled and quickly capture only the necessary data that is needed for a model.
for your requirements.
Similarly, if you’re working at height or scanning complex MEP installations with limited access, a hand-held scanner may
be your best choice. In the first scenario, a ground positioned scanner may miss hidden elements such as pipework running
above a duct and, in the second, the object you want to scan might be obscured by other equipment.

However, if you want to scan large spaces exclusively then a tripod-based solution would be an ideal match for your
requirements. In many cases, both a tripod-based scanner and a hand-held scanner are used together to ensure that a
robust and accurate composite point cloud is captured and produced. Don’t hesitate to ask for specialist advice before
investing in a 3D scanning solution. In addition to hardware and software, expertise should always be part of the package.

5 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Whether you’re using a hand-held scanner, a tripod-based scanner or a combination of both, it’s important that construction
teams capture scans, or station setups, from multiple locations in a room to ensure quality data is captured. In some
instances, only one scan is necessary to accurately capture a space; however, in most instances, multiple factors will
determine what constitutes the number of station setups. Factors including space size, complexity and accessibility are
primary considerations and even the technical capability of the 3D scanner can contribute. With this in mind, it may be wise
to evaluate an outlay on initial training, alongside hardware and software, as part of an original investment.

6 THE FUTURE OF 3D LASER SCANNING

As design and construction professionals gain access to 3D scanning technology through both software and hardware
innovations, the future of 3D scanning is exciting with limitless applications to the AEC industry. Two areas that are
positioned to grow rapidly are centred on virtual reality and construction verification. With virtual reality, companies are
collecting small area scans using a hand-held 3D scanner and then importing the scan data into a headset device for
visualization. The scan data is being used in the virtual environment to educate and inform both the design and construction
teams by immersing the project team in the “as-is” condition.

As this workflow evolves, look for larger sets of scanning data (i.e. entire buildings) to be visualized in a virtual environment
during both design and construction. For construction verification, scanning software is being introduced to the industry
that starts to compare scan data captured on a construction site with the 3D coordination model being used to coordinate
the building systems. The idea behind construction verification is to capture project conditions on a daily basis through 3D
laser scanning and identify what is missing, what has been installed and whether or not the installed systems meet project
tolerances. This type of verification can then inform project teams for billing purposes and to confirm the accuracy of the
construction schedule. As the 3D scanning technology evolves, the tools will become more accessible to both design and
project teams. The end result will be further innovation to transform the way buildings are designed and built.

TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS

 TRIMBLE LASER SCANNING
High speed 3D scanner for the detailed measurement and
documentation of large objects, spaces and buildings.

Trimble offer highly versatile 3D scanning solutions for the

detailed measurement and documentation of large objects,
spaces and buildings. Trimble’s TX8 and TX6 scanners
deliver the power, flexibilty and accuracy to tackle even your
most demanding projects. Designed for performance on the
construction site, the TX8 and TX6 enable you to complete 3D
laser scanning projects faster than ever.

Data from the scanners loads directly into Trimble RealWorks,

our point cloud modeling software. When paired with Trimble
RealWorks and Trimble EdgeWise the TX8 and TX6 provide an
efficient data flow into popular CAD programs.

FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION ON TRIMBLE LASER SCANNING BY VISITING:

MEP.TRIMBLE.COM

US CANADA
TRIMBLE TRIMBLE CANADA
10368 WESTMOOR DR. 9131 KEELE ST, SUITE A7,
WESTMINSTER, CO VAUGHAN, ON
80211 L4K 0G7
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Triangle logo, and eCognition are trademarks of Trimble Navigation Limited,
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are the property of their respective owners.
1-800-234-3758
PN 022516-217 (01/16) MEPI@BUILDINGS.TRIMBLE.
COM

TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS