3D laser scanning – digital twins as the basis for modern planning
Why laser scanning has become indispensable
Today, conversions, extensions or retrofit projects in plant construction and existing buildings require a planning basis that is more precise than any conventional measurement. Errors in measurements later lead to disruptions in the construction process, additional costs and improvised solutions – especially in mature existing structures.
This is precisely where 3D laser scanning comes in.
Modern laser technology allows structural features to be captured completely digitally and mapped as an exact 1:1 twin. This digital twin then becomes the basis for all planning, design and execution processes.
Generation of a precise point cloud
With our FARO laser scanner, we capture the building structures in high density and accuracy.
Several scan positions – inside and outside – are merged into a coherent point cloud. This creates a complete image of the actual condition, regardless of:
- complex geometries
- areas that are difficult to access
- varying lighting conditions
- Extensive technical installations
The point cloud realistically depicts every wall, every component, every deviation and every unevenness.
Further processing in the CAD system
The point cloud is imported into our CAD systems and serves as a digital basis for:
- Reference modeling of components, systems and machines
- Derivation of exact 2D as-built drawings
- Creating sections, views and elevations
- Collision detection for new designs
- Dimensional checks and tolerance analyses
- Export for BIM or other planning environments
This means that the real environment is fully integrated into the digital planning process.
Working with large point clouds
To work efficiently with extensive point clouds, we use:
- Clipping functions to keep only relevant areas visible
- 3D region filter for structuring large amounts of data
- Freely defined cutting planes for targeted design
- Modular work areas for plant construction, architecture and interior design
This means that even large industrial plants can be processed digitally without the amount of data burdening the workflow.
BIM and digital project coordination
Point clouds can be integrated directly into BIM projects as part of larger projects.
Advantages:
- All trades work on a common, error-free data basis
- Consistency from planning to operation
- Avoidance of geometric conflicts at an early stage
- Better decision-making through complete transparency
For international projects, this digital twin is often the central link between different teams and disciplines.
Areas of application
3D laser scanning is used in:
- industrial retrofit projects
- Mechanical and plant engineering
- Architecture and building construction
- Halls and buildings
- Conversions during operation
- precise measurement situations with complex geometry
Wherever precise inventory data is crucial, the scan forms the basis for reliable planning.
Conclusion
Using modern 3D laser scanning technology, we create a precise data basis for industry, plant engineering and construction.
The digital twin reduces planning errors, accelerates decisions and enables smooth collaboration between all project participants – regardless of location.
In this document, we show examples of how we use 3D laser scanning in industrial plant construction – from as-built surveys and BIM coordination to as-built models.
The download is intended to give interested parties a transparent insight into how we work, what advantages arise and what added value modern scanning technology delivers in real projects
