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3D Scanning & BIM Glossary

79 essential terms from the AEC, 3D scanning, and geospatial technology industries — explained clearly for architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers.

Use the A-Z navigation or search bar below to find any term instantly.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Accuracy
The degree to which a measurement or 3D scan data point conforms to the true real-world value. In laser scanning, accuracy is typically expressed in millimeters (e.g., ±1-2mm) and depends on scanner hardware, environmental conditions, and registration quality. Learn more →
As-Built Documentation
The process of creating precise records of a building or structure as it was actually constructed, as opposed to the original design drawings. 3D laser scanning is the modern standard for capturing as-built conditions, producing point clouds that document every surface. Learn more →
As-Built Drawings
Technical drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections) that depict a structure's actual constructed dimensions and layout. These are generated from as-built survey data, often derived from 3D laser scanning and point cloud processing. Learn more →
Autodesk Revit
The industry-standard Building Information Modeling (BIM) software developed by Autodesk. Revit is used to create intelligent 3D building models from point cloud data in Scan-to-BIM workflows, supporting architecture, structural, and MEP disciplines. Learn more →
B
BIM (Building Information Modeling)
A digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility. BIM models contain intelligent, parametric 3D elements (walls, doors, ducts) linked to data such as materials, costs, and scheduling. BIM is central to modern AEC project delivery. Learn more →
BLK2GO
A handheld imaging laser scanner by Leica Geosystems that uses SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology. The BLK2GO captures point clouds while walking through a space, making it ideal for rapid interior documentation where traditional tripod-based scanning is impractical. Learn more →
Breadcrumb (Navigation)
A secondary navigation element on a webpage showing the user's location within the site hierarchy (e.g., Home > Learn > Glossary). Breadcrumbs improve user experience and help search engines understand site structure via BreadcrumbList schema markup.
C
CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
Software technology used to create 2D drawings and 3D models for engineering, architecture, and construction. Common CAD formats include DWG, DXF, and DGN. Point cloud data can be imported into CAD software to create accurate as-built drawings. Learn more →
Clash Detection
The automated process of checking a BIM model for conflicts between building systems — such as a duct intersecting a beam, or piping running through a wall. Clash detection uses software like Navisworks or Solibri to identify and resolve coordination issues before construction. Learn more →
Cloud-to-Cloud Registration
A point cloud alignment technique that matches overlapping scan positions by comparing the geometry of the point clouds themselves, without requiring physical survey targets. Algorithms such as ICP (Iterative Closest Point) iteratively refine the alignment between adjacent scans. Learn more →
Colorized Point Cloud
A point cloud in which each 3D data point is assigned an RGB color value captured by the scanner's built-in camera or a separate photographic sensor. Colorization makes point clouds visually intuitive and helps professionals identify materials, finishes, and conditions. Learn more →
Construction Documentation
The collection of drawings, specifications, models, and records that define a construction project. 3D scanning enhances construction documentation by providing millimeter-accurate as-built records, progress tracking data, and clash-free coordination models. Learn more →
Coordinate System
A reference framework used to define the position of points in 3D space. In scanning, common coordinate systems include local project coordinates, state plane coordinates (NAD83), and global coordinates (WGS84). Proper coordinate system setup ensures scan data aligns with existing project and survey data.
D
Data Processing
The set of operations applied to raw scan data after field capture, including registration (aligning individual scans), noise filtering, decimation, colorization, and export to deliverable formats such as E57, RCP, or LAS. Processing transforms raw data into usable point clouds.
Decimation
The controlled reduction of point cloud density by removing points at a specified interval or distance threshold. Decimation reduces file size and processing demands while preserving the geometric integrity of the data at a chosen resolution.
Dense Point Cloud
A point cloud with a high point density (typically millions to billions of points), capturing fine surface detail. Dense point clouds are produced by photogrammetry and high-resolution laser scanners and are necessary for modeling complex geometry. Learn more →
Digital Twin
A dynamic, data-rich virtual replica of a physical asset, space, or system. Unlike a static 3D model, a digital twin is connected to real-time or regularly updated data sources (IoT sensors, BIM, maintenance records) and mirrors the current state of its physical counterpart throughout its lifecycle. Learn more →
DJI
The world's largest manufacturer of commercial and consumer drones (unmanned aerial vehicles). DJI platforms such as the Matrice 350 RTK, Mavic 3 Enterprise, and Zenmuse L2 payload are industry standards for aerial photogrammetry, LiDAR surveying, and drone inspections. Learn more →
Drone Photogrammetry
The process of capturing overlapping aerial photographs from a drone (UAV) and processing them with photogrammetry software to produce orthomosaics, 3D meshes, digital elevation models, and point clouds. Used extensively for site surveys, topographic mapping, and construction monitoring. Learn more →
DWG
The native file format of Autodesk AutoCAD, widely used for 2D and 3D CAD drawings across architecture, engineering, and construction. Point cloud data can be exported to DWG for integration with existing CAD workflows. Learn more →
E
E57
An open, vendor-neutral file format for storing 3D point cloud data, images, and metadata. Defined by the ASTM E2807 standard, E57 is the recommended interchange format for sharing scan data between different software platforms (Revit, ReCap, CloudCompare, etc.). Learn more →
Elevation Drawing
A 2D orthographic projection of a building facade or interior wall, drawn to scale. Elevation drawings can be generated from registered point cloud data by slicing the cloud at the desired plane and tracing the geometry in CAD or BIM software.
EMLID
A manufacturer of affordable, high-accuracy GNSS/RTK receivers (Reach RS4) and PPK/RTK solutions for surveying and drone mapping. EMLID equipment is popular for establishing ground control points and georeferencing aerial survey data. Learn more →
F
Facility Management
The professional discipline of managing and maintaining buildings, infrastructure, and real estate. 3D scanning and digital twins support facility management by providing accurate spatial data for space planning, renovation, maintenance scheduling, and emergency preparedness.
FAR Part 107
The Federal Aviation Administration regulation governing commercial drone (small UAS) operations in the United States. Part 107 certification is required for pilots conducting commercial drone photogrammetry, LiDAR surveys, and aerial inspections. Learn more →
FARO
A leading manufacturer of 3D measurement and imaging technology. FARO scanners, including the Focus Premium and Focus Swift, are widely used for terrestrial laser scanning in construction, forensics, manufacturing, and heritage documentation. Learn more →
Floor Plan
A scaled 2D drawing showing the layout of rooms, walls, doors, and windows as viewed from above. Accurate floor plans are generated from 3D scan data by taking a horizontal cross-section of the point cloud at a specified height (typically 4 feet above finished floor). Learn more →
Flyover
An aerial video or 3D visualization simulating a bird's-eye view flight path over a site, building, or terrain model. Flyovers are created from drone photogrammetry data or 3D scan models and are used for presentations, marketing, and project planning. Learn more →
G
GCP (Ground Control Point)
A precisely surveyed point on the ground with known coordinates (X, Y, Z) used to georeference aerial photogrammetry and drone mapping data. GCPs are typically established with RTK/PPK GNSS receivers and marked with high-contrast targets visible in aerial imagery. Learn more →
Georeference
The process of assigning real-world geographic coordinates (latitude, longitude, elevation) to spatial data such as point clouds, orthomosaics, or 3D models. Georeferencing ensures scan data aligns accurately with existing site surveys, maps, and GIS systems. Learn more →
GIS (Geographic Information System)
A framework for capturing, storing, analyzing, and visualizing geographically referenced data. LiDAR point clouds and drone survey outputs (orthomosaics, DEMs) are frequently integrated into GIS platforms like ArcGIS or QGIS for spatial analysis and decision-making.
GPS/GNSS
GPS (Global Positioning System) is the U.S. satellite navigation system; GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is the broader term encompassing GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. GNSS receivers provide the positioning data used for georeferencing scans, establishing GCPs, and RTK/PPK drone surveys. Learn more →
Ground Sampling Distance (GSD)
The distance between the centers of two consecutive pixel footprints on the ground in aerial imagery. Lower GSD values (e.g., 1 cm/pixel) mean higher spatial resolution. GSD is a key quality metric in drone photogrammetry, determined by flight altitude and camera sensor specifications. Learn more →
H
HBIM (Heritage BIM)
The application of Building Information Modeling techniques to historic and heritage structures. HBIM workflows use 3D laser scanning to capture complex, irregular geometries of existing heritage buildings and model them in BIM software for preservation, restoration, and documentation purposes. Learn more →
I
IFC (Industry Foundation Classes)
An open, international standard (ISO 16739) for exchanging BIM data between different software platforms. IFC files enable interoperability — a Revit model can be shared with ArchiCAD, Tekla, or other BIM-authoring tools without data loss. Learn more →
IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit)
A sensor module that measures acceleration and angular velocity to track the position and orientation of a device. IMUs are integral to mobile mapping systems (NavVis, BLK2GO), drone autopilots, and SLAM-based scanners, providing real-time positioning between GNSS fixes.
L
LAS/LAZ
LAS is the standard binary file format for storing airborne and terrestrial LiDAR point cloud data, defined by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS). LAZ is its compressed variant, reducing file sizes by 7-20x with lossless compression. Learn more →
Leica
A Swiss manufacturer of precision measurement instruments, including terrestrial laser scanners (RTC360, BLK360, P50), GNSS receivers, and total stations. Leica Geosystems is a division of Hexagon AB and a leader in the scanning and surveying industry. Learn more →
Level of Detail (LOD)
A specification that defines the completeness and reliability of BIM model elements at various stages. LOD ranges from LOD 100 (conceptual massing) through LOD 200 (generic elements), LOD 300 (specific, accurate geometry), LOD 400 (fabrication-ready), to LOD 500 (verified as-built). Most Scan-to-BIM projects target LOD 300. Learn more →
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)
A remote sensing technology that measures distances by illuminating targets with pulsed laser light and analyzing the reflected pulses. LiDAR is the core technology behind terrestrial laser scanners and aerial mapping payloads (DJI Zenmuse L2, Trimble MX50), producing dense, accurate 3D point clouds. Learn more →
Line of Sight
The unobstructed path between a laser scanner and the surface being measured. LiDAR and laser scanning are line-of-sight technologies — the scanner can only capture surfaces it can directly see. Occluded areas require additional scan positions or alternative capture methods.
M
Matterport
A spatial data platform and camera manufacturer (Pro3, Pro2) that creates immersive 3D virtual tours, floor plans, and digital twins. Matterport's cloud-based processing automatically generates dollhouse views, measurement tools, and shareable virtual walkthroughs from 360-degree captures. Learn more →
Mesh
A 3D surface model composed of connected polygons (typically triangles) that represent the exterior surface of an object or environment. Meshes are generated from point clouds or photogrammetry data and are used for visualization, 3D printing, and analysis. Common mesh formats include OBJ, STL, and FBX.
Mobile Mapping
The process of collecting geospatial data from sensors (LiDAR, cameras, GNSS, IMU) mounted on a moving platform such as a vehicle, trolley, or handheld device. Systems like NavVis VLX3, Leica BLK2GO, and vehicle-mounted arrays enable rapid, large-area data capture. Learn more →
Modeling
In the context of 3D scanning, modeling refers to the process of creating structured, intelligent 3D geometry (BIM elements, CAD drawings, meshes) from raw point cloud data. Modeling transforms raw scan data into usable deliverables such as Revit models, floor plans, or fabrication drawings. Learn more →
N
Nadir
The point on the ground directly below the camera or sensor. In drone photogrammetry, nadir images are captured with the camera pointing straight down, producing optimal data for orthomosaic and DEM generation. Learn more →
NavVis
A manufacturer of indoor mobile mapping systems, including the VLX3 wearable scanner. NavVis devices combine LiDAR, cameras, and SLAM technology to rapidly capture building interiors while walking, producing point clouds and 360-degree panoramic imagery. Learn more →
Noise (Point Cloud)
Erroneous or stray points in a point cloud that do not represent actual surfaces. Noise can result from reflective or transparent materials, edge effects, multipath reflections, or environmental interference (rain, dust). Noise is removed during data processing through statistical filtering.
Normal (Surface Normal)
A vector perpendicular to a surface at a given point. Surface normals are computed for each point in a point cloud to define surface orientation, which is essential for meshing, rendering, and understanding the geometry of scanned objects.
O
OBJ
A widely supported 3D geometry file format that stores vertex positions, texture coordinates, normals, and polygon faces. OBJ files are commonly used to exchange 3D meshes between scanning software, modeling applications, and visualization platforms. Learn more →
Orthomosaic
A geometrically corrected aerial image composite in which perspective distortion has been removed, so every pixel represents a consistent ground scale. Orthomosaics are produced from overlapping drone photographs and are used as accurately scaled base maps for measurement, planning, and GIS analysis. Learn more →
Outlier
A data point that lies significantly outside the expected range of values in a point cloud. Outliers are caused by sensor errors, reflective surfaces, or environmental interference and are removed during quality assurance processing to improve data integrity.
P
Photogrammetry
The science of making precise measurements from photographs. In 3D scanning, photogrammetry uses overlapping images captured from multiple viewpoints — by drones, handheld cameras, or structured rigs — to reconstruct accurate 3D models, point clouds, orthomosaics, and digital elevation models. Learn more →
PLY (Polygon File Format)
A file format for storing 3D data, including point positions, colors, normals, and polygon faces. PLY supports both ASCII and binary encoding and is commonly used in research, 3D printing, and point cloud visualization applications. Learn more →
Point Cloud
A large set of data points in 3D space (X, Y, Z coordinates), each representing a measured position on a surface. Point clouds are the primary output of laser scanning and photogrammetry, containing millions to billions of points that collectively represent the geometry of the scanned environment. Learn more →
Point Density
The number of measured points per unit area (typically points per square meter) in a point cloud. Higher point density captures finer detail but generates larger files. Typical densities range from 10,000 pts/m2 for building interiors to 100+ pts/m2 for large-area aerial LiDAR surveys. Learn more →
PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic)
A GNSS positioning technique where satellite observation data is recorded during flight or survey and processed after the mission against a base station or CORS reference. PPK achieves centimeter-level accuracy without requiring a real-time radio link, making it more flexible than RTK for aerial surveys. Learn more →
PTS/PTX
ASCII-based point cloud file formats originated by Leica Geosystems. PTS stores XYZ coordinates with optional intensity and RGB values. PTX extends PTS with scanner position and orientation metadata. Both formats are widely supported but produce large file sizes compared to binary alternatives. Learn more →
Q
Quality Assurance (QA)
The systematic process of verifying that scan data, point clouds, and derived deliverables meet specified accuracy, completeness, and quality standards. QA procedures include registration error checks, coverage verification, noise analysis, and comparison against control points.
R
RCP/RCS
Autodesk's point cloud file formats. RCS (Reality Capture Scan) files contain individual scan data, while RCP (Reality Capture Project) files reference multiple RCS files as a unified project. These formats are optimized for use in Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks. Learn more →
Reality Capture
The broad practice of capturing the physical world in digital form using 3D scanning, photogrammetry, LiDAR, or 360-degree imagery. Reality capture technologies produce point clouds, meshes, and immersive models that serve as the foundation for BIM, digital twins, and virtual tours. Learn more →
Registration
The process of aligning multiple individual scans into a single, unified coordinate system. Registration can use physical survey targets, cloud-to-cloud matching (ICP algorithm), or a combination of both. Registration accuracy directly impacts the quality of the final deliverable. Learn more →
Resolution
In laser scanning, resolution refers to the angular spacing between measured points. Higher resolution settings produce denser point clouds with finer detail. Scanner resolution is typically expressed as point spacing at a given distance (e.g., 3mm @ 10m).
Revit
See Autodesk Revit. The industry-standard BIM software for architecture, structure, and MEP modeling. Revit imports point clouds (RCP/RCS format) for Scan-to-BIM workflows and produces intelligent parametric building models. Learn more →
RGB
The Red-Green-Blue color model used to assign color values to point cloud data. Each point can carry an RGB value captured by the scanner's camera, creating a colorized point cloud that visually represents the scanned environment.
RTK (Real-Time Kinematic)
A GNSS positioning technique that uses real-time correction data transmitted from a base station or network (e.g., NTRIP) to achieve centimeter-level accuracy in the field. RTK is used for establishing ground control points, staking out survey points, and real-time drone positioning. Learn more →
S
Scan Position
The physical location where a tripod-mounted laser scanner is set up to capture data. Each scan position produces a 360-degree point cloud from that vantage point. Multiple scan positions are registered together to provide complete coverage of a space, with typical overlap of 30-50% between adjacent positions.
Scan-to-BIM
The workflow of converting 3D laser scan data (point clouds) into intelligent Building Information Models. The process involves field scanning, point cloud registration and processing, and then BIM modeling in Revit by a BIM provider. Scan-to-BIM is essential for renovation, retrofit, and facility management projects. Learn more →
Scan-to-CAD
The process of converting 3D laser scan data (point clouds) into 2D CAD drawings (DWG/DXF) or 3D CAD models. Scan-to-CAD produces floor plans, elevations, sections, and details from as-built scan data and is used when full BIM modeling is not required. Learn more →
Section Drawing
A 2D drawing showing a vertical cut through a building or structure, revealing interior construction, floor-to-floor heights, and structural relationships. Section drawings are extracted from registered point clouds by slicing through the 3D data at a defined plane.
SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping)
An algorithm that simultaneously builds a map of an unknown environment while tracking the device's position within it. SLAM is the core technology behind mobile mapping devices (NavVis VLX3, Leica BLK2GO, GeoSLAM) that capture point clouds while moving through a space. Learn more →
Structured Light Scanning
A 3D scanning technique that projects a known pattern (stripes, grids) onto a surface and measures the deformation of the pattern with cameras to calculate 3D surface geometry. Structured light scanners are commonly used for small-to-medium object scanning and quality inspection, offering high detail at close range.
T
Target (Survey Target)
A physical marker (sphere, checkerboard pattern, or tilt-and-turn target) placed in a scene before scanning. Targets provide identifiable reference points that scanning software uses for precise registration of multiple scans and for tying scan data to a known coordinate system. Learn more →
Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS)
Ground-based 3D laser scanning performed from a stationary tripod position. TLS systems (Trimble X12, FARO Focus Premium, Leica RTC360) capture 360-degree point clouds of their surroundings and are the standard method for documenting building interiors, facades, and infrastructure. Learn more →
Time-of-Flight
A distance measurement principle used in laser scanners that calculates the distance to a surface by measuring the time it takes for a laser pulse to travel from the scanner to the surface and back. Time-of-flight scanners are effective for long-range measurements (up to 300+ meters). Learn more →
Trimble
A global manufacturer of positioning, modeling, and data analytics solutions. Trimble's scanning products include the X12 and X7 terrestrial laser scanners, TX6/TX8 legacy scanners, and GNSS receivers. Trimble RealWorks is their point cloud registration and processing software. Learn more →
V
Virtual Tour
An immersive, interactive digital experience that allows users to navigate and explore a space remotely through 360-degree panoramic imagery. Matterport and other platforms create virtual tours from 3D scans, providing dollhouse views, measurement tools, and embedded media for real estate, hospitality, and facility management. Learn more →
Voxel
A volumetric pixel — the 3D equivalent of a 2D pixel. In point cloud processing, voxelization divides 3D space into a regular grid of cubes (voxels). Each voxel retains a single representative point, providing uniform spatial downsampling for analysis, visualization, or machine learning workflows.
X
XYZ (Point Cloud Format)
A simple ASCII text file format for point cloud data where each line contains the X, Y, and Z coordinates of a single point, optionally followed by intensity, RGB color, or normal values. XYZ is universally readable but produces very large files and lacks metadata support. Learn more →

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