How 3D Scanning Works

Phase 1: Project Planning

Before any scanning begins, proper planning ensures success.

• Define project scope and deliverables
• Review existing documentation (drawings, specs)
• Plan scan positions for complete coverage
• Identify access requirements and constraints
• Establish control network if needed
• Coordinate with site contacts

Phase 2: Field Capture

On-site scanning is where data collection happens. Scanners are positioned throughout the space, capturing millions of points from each location. Scan positions typically overlap by 30-40% to ensure complete coverage and enable registration.

• Set up scanner on tripod at planned positions
• Configure scan settings (resolution, quality)
• Execute scan (2-5 minutes per position)
• Move to next position with appropriate overlap
• Place targets for registration if needed
• Document site conditions and access

Phase 3: Registration

Registration aligns individual scans into a unified coordinate system. This can be done using physical targets, cloud-to-cloud matching, or a combination. Quality registration is critical—errors compound throughout the dataset.

Phase 4: Processing

Raw point clouds undergo cleaning and optimization. Noise, outliers, and unwanted objects are removed. The data may be decimated for manageable file sizes while preserving accuracy. Color information from scanner cameras is applied.

Phase 5: Deliverable Creation

The processed point cloud becomes the foundation for client deliverables: 2D drawings, 3D BIM models, measurements, visualizations, or simply the cleaned point cloud itself. This phase varies significantly based on project requirements.