Evolve the BIM Workflow: A 3D Scan to Change the Game

We are living in the Information Age, where everything relies on information to advance and progress. Even in the fields of construction and architecture, information can be the key to keeping a project on track and within budget. With so many different teams working and interacting together, it is crucial that everyone starts from the same point. For this reason, professionals use BIM to gather and maintain all the necessary information about a project in one place. By using 3D scanning to create an accurate ‘As-Is’ model of the project before work begins, all teams have immediate access to the correct information to make informed decisions.

What is BIM?

Building Information Modeling or in short, BIM, is a way for the same 3D model to be created, managed, and viewed by multiple teams working together. While the initial idea of BIM was implemented on physical technical drawings, current BIM offers cloud-based collaborative spaces for holistic management across a project’s lifecycle.

How the Game is Changing

In the past, BIM depended on individuals to accurately document and update aspects of their work to reflect the current conditions of the project.  Faulty or missing documentation leaves gaps which could lead to issues in downstream development.  By implementing a 3D scan, the designed model can be quickly updated to reflect the actual physical structure at the project site.  This ‘As-Built’ information can be vital to prevent issues and ensuring project accuracy.

Key Benefits of a 3D Scan for BIM

A few key benefits of using 3D scans in your BIM include the following:

  • Precision: Minor details can be captured using 3D scanning which traditional measurement tools may miss.  This ensures that the BIM model stays accurate regardless of who measures it.
  • Timesaving: A single 3D scan can encompass multiple individual dimensions in it, saving time.  For measurements in precarious locations, a long-range scanner can save time and be a safer option for workers as well.
  • Clash Detection: Accurate scans can help teams detect potential design conflicts early, minimizing costly on-site errors.
  • Efficiency in Rework: For any renovations or retrofitting rework, starting from a precise digital model based on a 3D scan can help keep the project running without delays

Applications of 3D Scanning for BIM

By implementing 3D scanning into your BIM workflow, various project aspects are improved.

  • Documentation: A 3D scan can capture every detail of a site’s existing conditions.  With accurate documentation like this, architects and engineers can make decisions with confidence.
  • Progress Monitoring: Project managers can have regular intervals of the construction 3D scans to compare and update the BIM model, comparing planned construction time to actual construction time, and making sure the project stays on track and meets quality standards.
  • Asset Management: Once a building is completed, the BIM model can serve as an ongoing resource for facilities management.  This digital twin, created by BIM and 3D scans, provides a dynamic tool for monitoring and maintaining a building throughout its lifecycle.

BIM through Digital Scan 3D

As projects require more detailed information, 3D scanning is becoming an essential tool in BIM.  The data accuracy and ease of capture allow digital twin models to be easily updated, and augmented reality (AR) tools can allow people to experience an ‘as-is’ version overlaid with a designed final version.

Here at Digital Scan 3D, we specialize in providing cutting-edge 3D scanning services to enhance your BIM process.  Our capabilities range from capturing intricate architectural details to conducting comprehensive site scans.  We ensure that your BIM models are founded on precision and reliability

Conclusion

Combining BIM with Digital Scan 3D is a game-changer for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. Whether you’re working on a new build or retrofitting an existing structure, 3D scanning ensures that your models are accurate, efficient, and reliable.

Contact us today to learn how our advanced 3D scanning services can help transform your BIM process.