What you need to know about using Point cloud in Revit?

One of the major questions that is being asked right now is that, Is laser scanning for point cloud data a good proposition for your project?

There are lots of things that have been said and written on this topic but the answer is very subjective. Note that it is very simple to efficiently assimilate Point clouds into the workflow of the industry and the AEC community as eventually Autodesk and Revit is strongly faithful to it.

It is possible to compare new building construction with its certified design to categorize, document and correct their inconsistencies with the help of Point Clouds. Hence, BIM models in Revit from Point cloud data have become a norm nowadays. In this write-up, we will discuss about certain beliefs, pertaining to the use of Point Cloud for Revit BIM.

There are different benefits associated with working unswervingly with raw point clouds in the 3D space. With the help of Point Cloud it is possible to characterize 3D sensor output and there is no presumption of accessible connectivity data or core topology. It is also accustomed for dynamic applications that need data integration and deformation. In the near past, we have observed that there are graphic communities which are accepting the use of point clouds as an option to rendering.

It also evades the requirement for intricate mesh construction methods. In addition to that, point cloud in Revit is a more data effective option when the accessible point data compactness surpasses the viewing screen tenacity since there is no requirement to preserve, stock, and solidify the triangles connected with each edge of a mesh.

Let us now look at the myths associated with Point Cloud to Revit BIM:

Point Cloud Data is Always Error Free

Reality: This is hardly true. About 45% of BIM professionals claim that there are bound to be dimensional errors in the Point Cloud data. Now the impetus lies on BIM experts to identify and correct these dimensional and alignment errors in order to achieve a flawless 3D model.

It’s Easy

Reality: The process of scanning for point clouds is complicated and so is converting these point clouds into building information models. Approximately 35% of BIM professionals claim that there are lot of technologies that need to be taken into consideration first the hardware / scanner, import / export to Revit to utilize the background to model over. There are lots of technologies each having their own strengths and weaknesses hence it depends on the decision making power of the individual at each and every step. There is no easy and a simple way out to create a model from a PointCloud.

Scan to BIM Process is Cheap

Reality: Now this is the biggest misconception. Point Cloud to Revit BIM is not economical. There are lots of costs associated with it. Nearly 25% of BIM professionals claim that a scanning crew if utilized on board costs around $ 3000 to $ 4000 and that is just to get the exterior part of the building with the assistance of Point Cloud.

For a two day job the cost would be $ 6000 to $ 8000 and in the end you get only Point Cloud and not a Revit model. So an archetypal house modeled with Point Cloud costs completely approximately $ 8000 to $ 10,000 while a 12 storey commercial office building may cost more than $ 50,000 and so on.

If you want to start up with a project, do not just go by your beliefs, evaluate first and do a complete cost benefit analysis. If your project truly demands that, you use a scan to BIM technology for the same then go for it.

It is very significant to initiate with the meekest model as per your requirement that is dimensionally precise, volumetrically exact by utilizing different technologies that you can procure through cost-effective ways.  Accumulating particulars to the model should be done relying on range and requirement. Always remember that scanning is very important when done with exact precision and after getting complete details. Evaluate your alternatives and then take the decision.

About the Author: Gaurang Trivedi is engineering consultant at TrueCADD. Besides, donning multiple hats, as a website manager and marketing in charge, he also oversees the editorial content, coordinating and managing the website, its news sections, blogs and social media promotions as well.