The number of scan positions depends on the scanning method, space layout, and required detail level.
Tripod Scanner Positions (Trimble X12, FARO Focus, Leica RTC360)
Tripod scanners capture a 360-degree scan from each position. Positions must overlap for proper registration (alignment). General guidelines:
| Space Type | Positions per SF | 10,000 SF Example |
|---|---|---|
| Open floor plan (warehouse, office) | 1 per 250-350 SF | 30-40 positions |
| Standard rooms (residential, hotel) | 1 per 150-250 SF | 40-65 positions |
| Complex layout (hospital, data center) | 1 per 100-150 SF | 65-100 positions |
| Industrial MEP-heavy | 1 per 80-120 SF | 85-125 positions |
| Historic with ornate detail | 1 per 60-100 SF | 100-165 positions |
Additional positions needed for:
- Every doorway and corridor transition (+2-4 per floor)
- Stairwells (+2-3 per stairwell)
- Elevator lobbies (+1 per floor)
- Exterior facades (+10-20 for a typical building)
Mobile Scanner (NavVis VLX3, Leica BLK2GO)
Mobile scanners do not use fixed positions — the operator walks through the space at normal pace. Coverage rate is approximately 6,000 SF per hour. Mobile scanning is recommended for spaces over 20,000 SF where tripod scanning would require hundreds of positions.
How Scan Positions Affect Cost
Each tripod scan position takes 3-8 minutes (depending on resolution settings). More positions = more field time = higher cost. However, too few positions create gaps in coverage that cannot be fixed without returning to the site.
A professional scanning company will plan scan positions based on your floor plans before arriving on site. THE FUTURE 3D provides a scan position plan as part of every project proposal.
Pro Tips
- Always scan from BOTH sides of doorways for clean transitions
- Ceiling-mounted equipment (HVAC, sprinklers) requires positions directly below
- Glass walls and mirrors cause reflection artifacts — plan positions to minimize these
- Outdoor-to-indoor transitions need extra positions for proper registration
Contact us for a free scan position estimate for your specific project.