Reality Capture: How Schemmer Uses Scan to BIM

Reality Capture: How Schemmer Uses Scan to BIM

The construction industry is undergoing a revolution, and Schemmer is at the forefront. We leverage cutting-edge technology like scan to BIM to transform how projects are planned, designed, built, and managed.

What is Scan to BIM?

Scan to BIM is a workflow that takes laser-scanned buildings or sites and transforms them into 3D models usable in Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms. These platforms interpret the scan data and create a digital, information-rich model that can be used by design and construction teams throughout a project.

Capturing Reality with Lasers:

The process starts with a high-tech tool: a 3D laser scanner. These scanners can be mounted on drones, tripods, or even backpacks, meticulously recording millions of data points as they scan the environment. Each point represents a specific location in space, building a digital picture of the real world.

A Point Cloud is Born:

The result of this laser dance is a point cloud: a massive dataset containing the x, y, and z coordinates of every point scanned. Think of it as a giant point-to-point map of the entire building or site. Some scanners can collect hundreds of millions of points in minutes, creating an incredibly detailed picture.

Lidar and SLAM:

So how do these scanners know where everything is? Most rely on lidar, a technology that measures the time it takes for a light beam to bounce back, pinpointing the location of each point. Some scanners take it a step further with SLAM algorithms, which not only map the environment but also track the scanner's location in real-time.

Schemmer: Your BIM Partner

At Schemmer, we understand the power of BIM and how it can enhance your project. Our team utilizes BIM software like Revit to create information-rich 3D models that can be seamlessly integrated with scan data. This allows for:

  • Real-time Collaboration: Our design teams (architecture, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering) can collaborate within the same BIM model, fostering better communication and project coordination.
  • Enhanced Design Capabilities: BIM allows for increased design efficiency and the ability to visualize your project in 3D. This fosters better decision-making and ensures your vision becomes a reality.
  • Clash Detection and Resolution: We use software like Navisworks and Revit to identify potential conflicts (clashes) between different building components before construction begins. This saves time and money by resolving these issues upfront.
  • Improved Project Management: A single BIM model integrates design and construction data, providing a central source of truth for improved project management and decision-making.

Schemmer in Action: The University of Nebraska's Memorial Stadium Renovation

Schemmer is proud to be a leader in applying scan to BIM technology for real-world projects. A shining example is our work on the renovation of the University of Nebraska's historic Memorial Stadium.

Here, we utilized scan to BIM services to capture the existing stadium with high-fidelity 3D scans. We scanned 7 floors and 500,000 square feet of the stadium, meticulously documenting every detail for use by the design team. We then worked closely with surveyors to create a precise ground control, ensuring the accuracy of the digital model. This BIM model, generated from scan data, provided the foundation for informed design decisions and efficient construction planning for this important renovation project. It was a complex undertaking, and one that allowed us to learn a tremendous amount about the power of scan to BIM.

Scan to BIM for Feasibility Studies and Existing Conditions Analysis

Scan to BIM isn't just for renovation projects. This powerful technology can also be used for feasibility studies and existing conditions analysis. By scanning a site, we can create a highly accurate digital model that can be used to:

  • Measure Square Footage (Gross and Net): The detailed point cloud data allows for precise calculations of a building's or site's total and usable square footage.
  • Analyze Floor and Ceiling Heights: Scan to BIM can identify variations in floor and ceiling heights throughout a structure, crucial information for renovation or adaptive reuse projects.
  • Evaluate Height Differentials: Thinking about building an addition or connecting to an existing structure? Scan to BIM can accurately measure height differences between key points, like a mine entrance and a nearby railroad or road.

The Missouri Mine Feasibility Study:

Schemmer's expertise in scan to BIM extends beyond traditional building projects. A prime example is our feasibility study for a large mine located in a remote area of Missouri.

 

Access to the 400,000 square foot site was a challenge. However, by utilizing cutting-edge mobile scanning technology (BLK2GO) along with RTC360 software, our team was able to efficiently scan a remarkable 200,000 square feet per day. The resulting point cloud data provided the foundation for a comprehensive feasibility study, including details like gross and net square footage, floor and ceiling heights, and the critical height differential between the mine entrance and surrounding transportation infrastructure. This information proved invaluable in determining the feasibility of the project and informing future development plans.

Schemmer's BIM expertise, coupled with scan to BIM technology, offers a powerful solution for your next project. Whether you're building new, renovating existing structures, or conducting feasibility studies, we can help you gather crucial data, make informed decisions, and achieve your project goals.