LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a technology that measures distances using laser pulses. The result of scanning is a point cloud: a large number of points with X, Y, Z coordinates, often also with colour or reflection intensity, which together form an accurate 3D image of a space.
How scanning works
The scanner emits laser pulses and determines the distance to objects from the return time of the reflection. When moving around equipment or scanning from several positions, millions to billions of points are captured. Accuracy depends on the device and the procedure; for common scanners it is in the order of millimetres to centimetres. The points form a faithful image of the actual condition, including wiring, piping and machinery.
What it is useful for
In the point cloud you can measure distances, check for collisions during a rebuild, plan new equipment and maintain a surveyed as-built record for documentation. For energy management, it is useful to have the location of meters, switchboards and energy sources directly in 3D and link them with data. The point cloud can be converted into a BIM model.
Example from manufacturing
Before a new line is installed, the production hall is scanned. In the point cloud, you check where the utilities will run and whether the equipment will fit. Our 3D LiDAR scan and BIM model service uses a viewer that opens point clouds directly in a web browser and lets you draw zones, tasks and markers and take measurements.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is a LiDAR scan?
It depends on the type of scanner and the measurement method. It is typically in the range of millimetres to centimetres, which is sufficient for documenting halls and utility routes.
What is the difference between a point cloud and a BIM model?
A point cloud is a 3D “photograph” made up of points. BIM is a structured model with elements (walls, pipes, machines) and their properties. A BIM model is created from the point cloud.