Point cloud surveys in Australia
- Australian point cloud survey service
- Surveyors available in every state
- Latest technology & equipment
- Full range of scanning and document creation services
- Creation of models for Revit & BIM implementation
- 20+ years of experience in retail, commercial & industrial
Realserve have a qualified team of surveyors based in our offices in each capital city of Australia who can deliver a range of Point Cloud survey services. Point Cloud Surveys are fast becoming the industry norm for surveying buildings with a high degree of precision to capture spatial data quickly. Our surveyors specialise in laser scanning commercial office buildings, retail sites, factories, warehouses or industrial sites. We enable the efficient planning and management of things like leasing, property sales, refurbishments or even heritage listing preservation.
Benefits of Point Cloud surveys vs traditional methods in Australia
A Point Cloud survey is a surveying technique that involves the collection of data points from a real-world environment using 3D laser scanning. This raw point cloud data is then calibrated in a BIM software program, such as Revit, to create a 3D construct. It is made possible by unifying the data from the scanning process. A point cloud survey can then be used to create traditional surveying documentation including 2D plans, elevations, sections, reflected ceiling plans, site plans
A point cloud can be used for the latest digital workflows including Building Information Management (BIM), as a 3D view that can provide visual context at any time or being converted into a Revit model as well as creating Digital Twin models.
Up to date building or site plans
So many retail, commercial or industrial buildings have site plans that were produced when it was first built. These are often not updated and therefore do not reflect the existing conditions. It renders them almost useless when it comes to renovating, refurbishments or developments of any type of property. Getting a 3D laser scan completed means a surveyor can quickly produce brand new documentation that is not only millimetre accurate, but in a digital format that can be manipulated, shared and quickly accessible by multiple stakeholders.
Speed & accuracy
Traditional analogue surveying methods can take a long time to complete, are manually labour intensive and can produce errors depending on the complexity of what is being surveyed. Using the latest laser scanning equipment means a site can be scanned in 3D with millimetre perfect accuracy & in a shorter time period. This method of surveying is therefore more accurate, more efficient & delivers a greater volume of data to work with.
Safe access
The other consideration is the ease of access, some sites have unusual layouts, and uneven topography or would require weeks to survey with traditional methods. 3D scanning can map any type of area, terrain or interior quickly & efficiently with very little complication involved, including high traffic thoroughfares, retail store interiors or even a factory.
Volume of data collected
It is fairly common for conventional surveying techniques to miss or incorrectly collect data points. This would require a revisit to the site which can add to the overall surveying cost & delivery timeline. Laser scanning in practical terms captures everything, the first time, with the data available for access at any point in time, even sharable electronically across different locations.
Land and aerial surveying options
While most surveying is done at ground level there are situations where an aerial view can be very useful. Realserve has licensed surveyors who can operate drones that are equipped with surveying hardware. The data collected can be used to prepare documentation as you would a land based survey. Aerial surveying can provide highly accurate and detailed data which can be useful in a variety of industries, including retail, agriculture, and construction. Aerial surveying can also provide 3D models of the land, which can be useful in planning and design
Easy to digest information
The point clouds are a 3D representation of a space or object that is visually intuitive and easy to understand, they can be viewed and analyzed using various software tools and techniques that make it simple to extract helpful information and insights. The large volume of data collected is simple to understand and visualise exactly what has been captured onsite.
360 Photos
Combined with a Point Cloud survey, 360 Photos provide an immersive experience that allows the viewer to look around and explore the entire scene, capturing details that a traditional photo might miss and helps the viewer get a better sense of a space. As 360 Photos are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, it makes it easier for clients to view a space at their convenience. This is especially beneficial for clients who are unable to physically visit a space due to distance or other constraints.
Point cloud scanning for buildings & infrastructure in Australia
Point Cloud Surveys in Australia are fast becoming the industry norm for surveying buildings with a high degree of precision. If you need to produce survey documentation for a building or its surrounding infrastructure like a road, car park or loading area then engaging a surveyor that can conduct a laser scanning to produce a Point Cloud is your most efficient choice. Our surveying team in Australia is equipped with the latest 3D laser scanning equipment with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) which can capture large sites or areas very efficiently no matter how complex it is.
This method of rapid volume of data collection is also extremely accurate with an unprecedented ability to document very complex geometric shapes, intricate design details or existing conditions down to the last millimetre. All of this not only creates a virtual view that can be looked at in 3D but the data can be manipulated to be used for different forms of documentation creation as well as used by different job functions.
Architects, designers, builders, steel detailing companies can all use a Point Cloud, especially via BIM, to either construct, refurbish or remodel an existing building or block of land.
Point cloud scanning for commercial & retail sites in Australia
Using a Point Cloud to present the exterior of a building is a very well known practice in Australia. Although when it comes to retail or commercial property this method of surveying can be extremely powerful especially when dealing with the interior spaces that are used all the time for tenancy purposes.
There are a number of uses for a Point Cloud that is created from a 3D laser scan of places like a commercial office, call centre, retail store, shopping centre or In a retail environment;
- Store layout and design: Point cloud scanning can be used to create a highly accurate 3D model of a store’s interior, which can be used in the design and planning of new store layouts, refits or new retail tenant changeovers. A 3D scan will capture all the existing conditions to enable the production of a Revit model, reflected ceiling plan, retail tenancy plan and more.
- Retail refurbishment programs: For an existing retail tenancy there will be a requirement at some point to rejuvenate the space or refurb a store that is perhaps undergoing a brand refresh for example. A Point Cloud can be created to then create the necessary documentation to plan for new walls, fixtures or fitting to be constructed and installed by a shop fit out team.
- Repurposing commercial offices: If a commercial tenancy is being used for offices sometimes it might be necessary to alter the layout to suit different styles of operation. So a call centre may have desks, power, lighting and seating layed out in a compact arrangement. On the other hand a corporate office may require larger desk areas, meeting areas, boardroom, presentation room etc. A 3D scan of the floor area can help plan the layout changes and 3D models could even be used to help secure a new tenant by showing different usage ideas.
Converting a Point Cloud survey into a Revit model in Australia
Each Realserve office in Australia has the equipment, software and skilled staff to take all of the data captured by our surveying team anywhere in Australia and then carefully convert this into a Revit model. A 3D Point Cloud survey has such accurate information that a Revit model can be created with great efficiency, ready for use by architects, engineers, construction professionals, building owners or retail shop fitting teams. It enables any of these job functions to easily manage a building and its surrounding infrastructure with the digital representation on hand 24/7 on any device.
Collaboration is facilitated as part of the building information modelling (BIM) process to deliver;
- Building Design: Revit models can be used to design buildings and structures in 3D, allowing architects and engineers to visualise and test different design options and simulate the performance of the building before construction.
- Construction Planning and Management: Revit models can be used to plan and manage construction projects, including estimating costs, scheduling tasks, and identifying potential clashes between different building systems.
- Facility Management: Revit models can be used to manage the operation and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure, including tracking maintenance schedules, updating equipment and systems, and managing space utilisation.
- Efficient Communication: Revit models can be shared and collaborated on by different stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners, allowing for improved communication and coordination throughout the project lifecycle.
How does our company deliver point cloud surveys in Australia?
We utilise the latest surveying technology to capture data to produce our point cloud survey outputs. Using the latest software programs everything is captured and processed accurately to start producing the required visual outputs. The equipment we use is state of the art including the latest RPA (drones) tools. We only use the latest software tools.
Multiple scans of the subject site may be required. These scans are then merged into a single three-dimensional representation of the area and post-processed within various software packages. From there you can utilise the data as a point cloud model by directly inserting it into a CAD drawing or Revit model. Point cloud scans can be utilised to create traditional 2D drawing sets or create 3D REVIT models.
Once our plans are drafted they go through an intensive QA process via an independent audit to ensure that what we have captured is delivered to the highest levels of accuracy possible. This service includes;
- Initial consultation to ensure we can meet your needs.
- Agree on a scope of work.
- A site visit is organised with one of our qualified technicians with the necessary equipment.
- All data is then processed via our team located in one of our offices around the Country.
- All plans or drawings are then independently reviewed via our QA process.
- All deliverables are then created for viewing.
We can deliver all building surveys as CAD or REVIT models, making the transition to BIM workflows simple.
Realserve have a team of experienced CAD technicians to create these drawings and 3D models from a point cloud.
Point cloud survey costs in Australia
Point cloud survey costs in Australia will vary based on a combination of factors which include;
- Location of the site being surveyed.
- How easy or difficult is site access?
- How large is the area that needs to be scanned either land, building exterior or interior floor area?
- How complex is the site either externally or internally?
- The estimated time it will take to 3D scan all the required areas
- How many point clouds need to be created to fulfil the brief given to the surveyor?
- Whether any other models or documentation needs to be created.
The best way to calculate your point cloud survey costs is to complete an online quote request or call our 1300 number so that our team can assess what is required and provide a written quotation. We can then provide a suggested scope of work, list of inclusions and proposed pricing to produce the point cloud survey/s you require.
Point cloud survey service locations in Australia
Realserve has the ability to deliver 3D laser scanning and building modelling across Australia. We have offices in each capital city that have trained 3D laser scanning technicians available to visit any type of site as well as a supporting team that can create models and other 2D documentation as required.
If you have multiple sites that are spread across a region or interstate we can also co-ordinate for our team to conduct the required 3D laser scanning at each location & then co-ordinate all the data to be processed centrally.
This essentially means we are able to provide national service coverage for 3D laser scanning as well as a very strict consistency in terms of the point cloud, revit model or other documentation that needs to be produced.
Australian point cloud survey case studies
3D Building Scanning to upgrade supermarket loading docks
A national supermarket brand needed to upgrade their loading docks with multiple sites around Australia. See how we used 3D building scanning to help achieve this
Point cloud created by a surveyor for a national hotel refurbishment program
In today’s modern era, the practice of relying on paper-based drawings and floor plans for a hotel refurbishment has become obsolete, with architects increasingly turning to modern workflows to maximise on the benefits that 3D scanning and modelling can offer
3D scanning of shopping centre amenities in Noarlunga, SA
To assist with the planning of a refurbishment program aimed at enhancing visitors’ experience at a shopping centre, Realserve survey technicians provided 3D building scanning services in Adelaide’s south.
3D scanning of a free standing restaurant building in Adelaide
Realserve routinely engages in the practice of 3D scanning buildings that are used for retail tenancies. Our surveyors in Adelaide were engaged to produce a Revit Model and Point Cloud for a free standing restaurant in a shopping centre car park
Using 3D scanning to create a new retail tenancy plan in Sydney
The Realserve surveyors in Sydney were engaged by Lendlease to create new retail tenancy documentation in their shopping centre at Erina Fair. Instead of using traditional survey methods we used a Leica BLK to create a 3D scan of the 130 square metre area.
3D Revit Model of a heritage building in Launceston
Realserve sent a team of surveyors to Launceston to create a 3D Revit Model for a heritage building in the city to help facilitate a refurbishment program.
Frequently asked questions about point cloud surveys in Australia
What is a point cloud survey
A point cloud survey is a type of surveying technique that involves the collection of data points from a real-world environment using laser scanning. The resulting data is a three-dimensional (3D) representation of the environment, consisting of a dense collection of individual data points. These points can be viewed as a cloud of coordinates in space, hence the name “point cloud.”
The data is usually collected using specialised equipment to capture the environment. In the case of laser scanning, the equipment sends out a laser beam that bounces back when it hits an object, and the time taken for the beam to return is used to calculate the distance to the object. The result is a point cloud that consists of millions of points with X, Y, and Z coordinates, each representing a small portion of the buildings surface either inside or outside.
Once the data has been collected, it can be processed using software to create a 3D model of the environment. This model can be used for various applications, including design and engineering, construction, urban planning, and retail site development. For example, in construction, a point cloud survey can be used to create a 3D model of an existing building or site, which can be used to plan renovations or additions. In urban planning, a point cloud survey can be used to create a 3D model of a city block, which can be used to plan transportation routes or assess the impact of new construction.
One of the advantages of a point cloud survey is its high level of accuracy. Since the data is collected using laser scanning it is possible to capture details that would be difficult or impossible to measure using traditional surveying techniques. For example, a point cloud survey can capture the shape of a curved exterior surface or the location of a small feature, which would be challenging to measure using a tape measure or level.
Another advantage of a point cloud survey is its flexibility. The resulting point cloud can be used for a wide range of applications, and the data can be easily manipulated and analysed using specialised software. For example, the point cloud can be used to create a 3D model of an environment, which can be rotated and viewed from different angles. The point cloud can also be used to measure distances, angles, and volumes, which can be useful for design and engineering applications.
What is point cloud technology for surveying
Point Cloud technology is used in in surveying where 3D laser scanning is used to capture millions of data points from a real-world environment. The resulting data points then create a three-dimensional (3D) representation of the environment. These points can be viewed as a cloud of coordinates in space, hence the name “point cloud” that can be viewed from different angles & then converted into other documentation as needed. It replaces traditional analogue or manual surveying techniques.
How is a point cloud used for building surveying?
Point cloud technology can be used for building surveying to provide detailed and accurate information about the structure of a building, including its dimensions, layout, and relative position vs its environment. This can be done either externally or internally to capture all existing conditions or to report changes over time if done at intervals;
Examples of its use include;
Building Reconstruction: Point cloud data can be used to reconstruct a 3D model of a building, including its interior and exterior, providing a comprehensive view of the building’s structure and layout. This can be used for renovation or restoration projects, as well as for analyzing the building’s current condition.
Measuring and Dimensioning: Point cloud data can be used to accurately measure and dimension a building’s features, including walls, floors, ceilings, and other structural elements. This can be used for creating floor plans, sections, and elevation drawings.
Structural Analysis: Point cloud data can be used to perform structural analysis of a building, identifying any structural issues or deficiencies that may require attention. This can be used for assessing the safety of a building or for planning renovation or retrofitting projects.
As-built Surveys: Point cloud data can be used to create accurate as-built surveys, providing an up-to-date record of the building’s condition and layout. This can be used for facility management purposes, including planning and maintenance activities.
What can point cloud surveys be used for?
A point cloud is the output of a 3D scanning processes and are are used for many purposes, including 3D computer-aided design (CAD) models, surveying buildings or even interiors. The data points can help visualise a construction site, building or interior in 3D visual model that can then be used to produce documentation including site plans, car parking plans or existing conditions plans.
How accurate is a point cloud survey?
In our experience a point cloud survey is the most accurate interpretation you can get of any building or existing condition. It is as close to 100% accurate as you can humanly achieve due to the volume of data points the 3D laser scanning process can produce.
What is the purpose of using a point cloud in AutoCAD?
A point cloud seamlessly integrates with AutoCAD, leveraging the well-known system interface and supplementing it with high-performance point cloud tools. Advanced features assist with specific applications, such as civil engineering, measured building surveys, cultural/heritage preservation and infrastructure.
What is point cloud modelling?
Sometimes we hear the phrase point cloud modelling but what it represents in Australia is the process of creating a point cloud that has huge amounts of data points in three dimensions (with X, Y and Z coordinates). This is done using 3D laser scanning and once the data is processed is the appropriate software a ‘model’ can be created which is a visual representation of what was scanned.
What is point cloud in 3D scanning?
Point cloud is the process of using a 3D laser scanner to capture different points to measure an area or structure. You can quickly generate a point cloud to capture dimensions, size and layout data. This collection of data points is converted into a 3D model that represents a site, structure or interior.
The process of using 3D scanning is more to do with the process of using a laser scanner to capture the XYZ coordinates of each point so that afterwards they can be connected to form a digital 3D representation.
Point clouds can be used for a variety of applications, including virtual reality, producing 2D survey documentation, computer-aided design (CAD) and more.