3D Laser scanning in Christchurch

  • 3D laser scanning Christchurch
  • Laser scanning surveyor for all suburbs
  • Latest scanning technology & equipment
  • Full range of scanning and document creation services
  • Creation of models for Revit & BIM implementation
  • Experienced laser scanning company

Realserve has 3D laser scanning surveyors in Christchurch that use cutting-edge scanning equipment and software to produce a wide array of survey plans, point cloud data, Revit or Digital Twin 3D models. 3D laser scanning in Christchurch can allow a surveyor to provide as-built surveys with incredible levels of detail and accuracy compared to traditional surveying methods.

Our qualified surveyors can play a pivotal role in your project with the use of 3D laser scanning technologies to improve the planning, design, construction, management, renovation or refurbishment processes for any building type. By using laser scanning, we will digitally capture an exact replica of a structure, building, shop, office or landscape to create highly accurate 3D computer models and imagery.

3D Laser scanning in Christchurch

Unlike traditional surveying techniques, the use of 3D laser scanning in Christchurch means we can quickly produce standard 2D plans with incredible accuracy using millions of points of data from a point cloud. It means your building, retail store, commercial office, warehouse or factory can be surveyed by our 3D laser scanning company in Auckland very quickly, have even the most intricate design details captured and even produce the best existing conditions documentation you have ever seen.   

It’s the best solution for as-built environments or structures that produces data with much greater detail than is possible with a traditional survey. Buildings, offices, shops, industrial sites and as-built conditions can be captured in fine detail to create rich models or documentation to drive design, leasing, building and maintenance activities.

It makes analysing and navigating any type of property, structure or retail environment simple for you to manage with an unprecedented level of manipulation and collaboration available via BIM. An architect, real estate agent, building manager, licensed builder, steel detailer, interior designer or even a shop fit out company can use the outputs from our 3D laser scanning service in Christchurch to construct new buildings, plan refurbishments, extensions or renovations. 

Realserve is often contacted by architect firms, real estate agents, property management, engineers or builders about creating survey-grade architectural and structural Revit BIM models for the management or redevelopment of a property. Getting a 3D laser scan has become the preferred choice for forward-thinking companies to get their documentation produced so architects, engineers or facility managers can accurately plan the work needed.

The reason for this is simple, 3D laser scanning accuracy is unrivalled and the plethora of possible outputs available from the data captured is as broad as it is flexible.

 

3D Laser scanning for commercial property in Christchurch

3D laser scanner measurements can be taken for any type of commercial property in Christchurch. Realserve is one of the pioneers of 3D scanning in Christchurch, our company has had a laser-like focus on producing existing condition documentation and 3D models using this breakthrough technology. For many years Realserve has provided a 3D scanning service used by commercial property owners, managers and real estate agents to manage tenancies, sell property or conduct refurbishments. 

Within minutes, our laser scanners can fully capture in 3D the shape of existing buildings, landscapes and commercial sites. Our surveying team does this by collecting thousands of 3D coordinates or points, resulting in a tightly packed point cloud ‘constellation’ that is used to create supremely accurate output that can be used for a range of purposes to help manage a property. 

The resolution, speed and intelligence of our Leica 3D laser scanner equipment is truly impressive. It can rapidly measure and map complex shapes in precise detail to specified tolerances. Realserve can now survey commercial environments once considered impractical for traditional surveying techniques to deliver, including office space, retail shops (including those within a shopping centre), industrial units, workshops, warehouses, and other non-residential property. 

The point cloud data sourced from the scan is then converted for compatibility with AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD and many other 3D CAD applications. From this CAD format we derive precise ‘as-built’ or ‘existing condition’ 2D scale drawings or virtual 3D modelling to be used for all kinds of purposes related to commercial property management.

3D Laser scanning for industrial properties in Christchurch

Realserve is an Christchurch 3D laser scanning company that can produce as-built models of large machine components or industrial plant equipment.  

As-built 3D plans can help you see things like exact wall thickness, lighting and sprinklers, mechanical fixtures, window locations, and much more. Traditional construction drawings will seldom give an accurate representation of an installation and modifications typically occur after a significant period of time has passed resulting in older archived plans bearing no resemblance to the existing as-built conditions.

Complex piping and equipment layouts are quickly and accurately captured by the 3D  laser scanning process which is why it is used in industrial properties. This allows for exact dimensions and deformations of sites and equipment to be determined. Component and plant upgrades can be planned and modelled to ensure fit first-time, reducing the need for costly shutdowns and disruption. The point cloud generated from the 3D scanning allows for the ability to find potential faults with a redesigned area through an automated Clash Detection Plan or even create Digital Twins to plan upgrades or process changes.

By hiring a 3D laser scanning service provider in Christchurch that specialises in complex industrial sites you can ensure you get the right level of problem solving on site, accuracy with the scanning and most importantly high quality outputs in 2D or 3D as needed. 

This is why Realserve is a well known 3D laser scanning company that is trusted to work on old heritage industrial sites or modern multi level commercial buildings. When choosing a 3D laser scanner measurement provider, while it’s important to consider the cost of the service, it becomes more important to think about the expertise and experience the company can provide.

Typical industrial applications for building 3D laser scanning are;

  • Plant room and equipment scanning.
  • Pipe Installations.
  • As-Built Engineering Structures.
  • Structural Steel As-Built’s.
  • Building renovations and extensions (Existing Conditions Plans)
  • New constructions (As-Built Models)
  • Plant and Processing sites
  • Façade detail
  • 3D modelling
  • Heritage preservation
  • Topographic Surveys
  • Concept visualization

3D Laser scanning for retail properties in Christchurch

The use of 3D laser scanning in Christchurch is not the exclusive domain of building exteriors. For many years Realserve has been a leading provider of existing conditions surveys for retail properties. Using our extensive expertise we quickly adapted traditional surveying methods to embrace the use of 3D laser scanning within retail environments including supermarkets, clothing stores, bulk goods retail shops and even shopping centres.

Rentable area surveys, evacuation plans or even reflected ceiling plans can now be produced in stunning detail using the latest laser scanning technology. For retail store refurbishments, renovations, floor plan changes or even franchise takeovers there has never been a more efficient way to manage a retail environment. It makes it easier than ever before to have measurements of floor space, fixtures, lighting, walls, doors and other details of a retail location which is kept in a high resolution digital format.

Converting a point cloud (created from a 3D laser scan) into a Revit model can then facilitate activities including;

  • Design and planning: detailed designs for interior and exterior features, layouts, and structural elements. Designers can also use the model to experiment with different design options and visualise how different materials and finishes will look which is crucial for presenting great retail environments.
 
  • Coordination: Revit models can be used to coordinate with other stakeholders in a retail construction project, such as engineers and interior designers. The model can be shared with team members to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that there are no conflicts between different fixtures or existing walls or posts.
 
  • Cost estimation: you can generate accurate cost estimates for new retail fit-outs or renovations. By using the model to identify and quantify the different materials and labour required, project managers can develop accurate cost projections.
 
  • Maintenance and renovation: A model can be used to identify and locate different building components, making it easier to perform repairs or upgrades for things like lighting, air conditioning, electrical points, security or other items needed in a retail store.

3D building scanning service in Christchurch

Realserve has a team of surveyors in Christchurch that can use the latest cutting-edge 3D building scanning equipment to produce a wide array of survey plans, point cloud data, Revit or Digital Twin 3D models. A 3D laser scan of a building allows surveyors to provide as-built surveys for any type of structure. Our qualified surveyors can play a pivotal role in a building project with the use of our laser scanning technologies to improve the plan, design, construction, management, renovation or refurbishment processes for any existing building structure type.

Unlike traditional surveying techniques, the use of laser scanning for a building means we can quickly produce standard 2D plans with incredible accuracy using millions of points of data from a point cloud. It means for example that a building, warehouse or factory can be surveyed by our 3D laser scanning company very quickly, have even the most intricate design details captured to produce the best existing conditions documentation you have ever seen. 

By utilising BIM tools, it is possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of what a building looks like and how it functions, as well as an unprecedented level of manipulation and collaboration, on any property. There are many industries that can benefit from our 3D building scanning service, including architects, real estate agents, building managers, licensed builders, steel detailers, interior designers and even shop fit out companies. These businesses can use the outputs of our 3D building scanning service for construction of new buildings, refurbishments, extensions or renovations. 

The reason for this is simple, 3D building scanning accuracy is unrivalled and the plethora of possible outputs available from the data captured is as broad as it is flexible.

How does our company deliver 3D laser scanning services in Christchurch?

We utilise the latest surveying technology to capture data to produce our 3D laser scanning 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 including AutoCAD & Revit.

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 in Christchurch as CAD or REVIT models, making the transition to BIM workflows simple.

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. 

Pointcloud scans can be utilised to create traditional 2D drawing sets or create 3D CAD / REVIT models. Realserve have a team of experienced CAD technicians to create these drawings and 3D models from a point cloud.

3D laser scanning costs in Christchurch

3D laser scanning costs in Christchurch will vary based on a combination of factors which include;

  • Location of the site that has to be 3D laser scanned.
  • How easy or difficult the access to the location is.
  • 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 laser scan all the required areas.
  • Whether a Point Cloud, Revit model or other 2D documentation needs to be created.
 

The best way to calculate your 3D laser scanning costs in Christchurch is to complete an online quote request or call our local office 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 provide a 3D laser scanning service.

Get a quote for 3D laser scanning in Christchurch

See our 3D laser scanning case studies in Christchurch

Frequently asked questions about 3D laser scanning in Christchurch

A laser scanner scans the surface of a structure and captures it as millions of points called a point cloud. As laser scanning collects huge amounts of data very quickly, large or complex jobs can often be completed in a short space of time and this includes construction projects. Once the point cloud data is generated, we then use specialist software to create the 3D computer models, 2D drawings, photos, surveys, measurements, and reports as required so that you can visualise, plan, share and develop your construction project.

3D laser scanners make the process of creating a physical or virtual model much quicker and with far greater accuracy. Laser scanning is a process of capturing and mapping current reality using laser beams to quickly capture details of whole buildings or sites and it is the most modern method for building information modelling (BIM), offering an accurate, cost-effective means of virtually modelling construction, restoration and retrofitting projects. The use of 3D laser scanning is helping the industry to address its long-standing productivity challenges. Scanning not only makes construction or refurbishment workflows more accurate and efficient, but it can also improve overall productivity.

For renovations or other construction projects that lack accurate existing conditions documentation, laser scan data can be converted into models that provide the missing information. For example renovations of old buildings, adaptive reuse conversions, and other redevelopment projects need current as-built drawings and documentation. Even if some plans exist, they may not accurately represent actual as-built conditions. We could produce as-builts by taking manual measurements of the space but this type of effort is very time-consuming and prone to human mistakes. The use of 3D scanning permits us to quickly and accurately collect all the measurement data of the current as-built conditions for a renovation project and use the point cloud data to create a model and assist with the design phase.

3D scanning can be used throughout the entire construction project to capture every phase of construction and this helps create a record of everything throughout the whole lifecycle of the construction project. The other huge benefit of using laser scanning in construction is that it can recognise conflicts early in the process before they happen, and decrease the level of rework. This reduction of rework can translate into hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings and keeps a project on schedule.

3D laser scanning in Christchurch has a wide range of applications in the commercial, industrial, and retail property sectors due to its ability to capture highly accurate and detailed spatial information. Here are various uses of 3D laser scanning in these domains:

1. Building Information Modeling (BIM):

3D laser scanning can be used to create accurate and detailed as-built models of existing structures. This data can be integrated into BIM software to facilitate renovation, retrofitting, or maintenance projects.

2. Construction and Renovation:

Contractors and architects use 3D laser scanning to capture precise measurements of existing structures, enabling more accurate planning and design for construction and renovation projects.

3. Documentation and Visualisation:

3D laser scanning generates point cloud data that can be used to create highly detailed visual representations of properties. This helps stakeholders visualize designs and assess potential issues.

4. Facility Management:

Laser scanning provides valuable data for facility managers to monitor and manage spaces, assets, and maintenance needs more effectively.

5. Quality Control and Inspections:

Laser scanning assists in quality control by comparing as-built conditions to design specifications, identifying discrepancies or issues that might arise during construction.

6. Historical Preservation:

In heritage or historical properties, 3D laser scanning helps preserve accurate records and digital replicas, ensuring the conservation of architectural and historical details.

7. Space Planning:

For commercial or retail spaces, 3D laser scanning aids in optimizing layouts, visualizing tenant fit-outs, and determining the best arrangement of assets.

8. Retail Store Design:

Retailers can use laser scanning to capture store layouts and dimensions accurately, facilitating effective merchandise planning and store design.

9. Security and Emergency Planning:

Laser scanning data assists in creating accurate floor plans and escape route maps, crucial for emergency response planning.

10. Tenant Improvements:

– Property owners and managers can use 3D laser scanning to document tenant improvements and changes made to leased spaces.

 

11. Marketing and Advertising:

– 3D scans can be used for marketing purposes, offering immersive virtual tours of properties to potential buyers, tenants, or customers.

 

12. Real Estate Development:
– Developers can use 3D laser scanning to assess potential sites, gather precise measurements, and plan for new construction projects.

 

 

3D laser scanning offers a comprehensive solution for capturing detailed spatial data that serves a multitude of purposes in the commercial, industrial, and retail property sectors, enabling more efficient and informed decision-making processes. The scanning can then 3D laser scanning services that create point clouds offer a variety of survey documentation options that provide accurate and detailed spatial information. Here are some types of survey documentation that can be created using point cloud data:

As-Built Surveys – Point cloud data can accurately capture the existing conditions of a building, structure, or site. As-built surveys are commonly used in construction and renovation projects to compare actual conditions to design plans.

 

Plant and Facility Layouts – In industrial settings, point clouds can be used to document the layout of equipment, machinery, and infrastructure within a facility, aiding in maintenance, planning, and safety.

 

Architectural Documentation – Point clouds are valuable for documenting the intricate architectural details of historical buildings or structures, facilitating preservation and restoration efforts.
 
 
Land Development – Point cloud data aids in documenting existing site conditions, including utilities, roads, drainage, and more, for use in land development and urban planning projects.
 
 
Heritage Documentation – Point cloud data is instrumental in documenting cultural heritage sites, artifacts, and archaeological finds, preserving them digitally for research and educational purposes.
 
 
Facility Management – Point cloud data aids facility managers in monitoring and managing spaces, assets, and maintenance needs more effectively.
 
 
Construction Progress Monitoring – Point clouds can be captured at different stages of construction to monitor progress and compare against project timelines.

 

These are just a few examples of the types of survey documentation that can be created using 3D laser scanning services that generate point cloud data. The accuracy and level of detail provided by point clouds make them invaluable tools in various industries for capturing and analysing spatial information.

3D laser scanning in New Zealand can produce Rentable Area Surveys;

  • Data Collection: 3D laser scanning involves using specialized equipment that emits laser beams to capture detailed spatial information about the environment. In the case of building surveys, the laser scanner is set up in different positions throughout the building to capture data from various angles.
 
  • Scanning Process: The laser scanner sends out thousands of laser beams that bounce off surfaces and return to the scanner. This data is collected to create a “point cloud,” which is a 3D representation of the building’s surfaces and structures.
 
  • Point Cloud Processing: The collected point cloud data is then processed using specialised software. This software aligns the data from different scans to create a unified and accurate 3D model of the building.
 
  • Boundary Determination: With the 3D model in hand, experts can accurately determine the boundaries of different spaces within the building, such as individual rooms, corridors, staircases, and more. These boundaries are crucial for calculating the rentable area according to BOMA standards.
 
  • Area Calculation: The 3D model and the determined boundaries are used to calculate the area of each individual space. This area calculation takes into account various factors, including wall thickness, usable floor area, vertical penetrations, and more.
 
  • Verification and Reporting: The calculated data is then verified and cross-checked to ensure accuracy. Once the verification process is complete, a detailed report is generated, including the rentable area calculations for each space according to BOMA or other relevant standards.
 

Using 3D laser scanning for BOMA or rentable area surveys offers several advantages:

  • Accuracy: 3D laser scanning provides highly accurate measurements and captures intricate details of a building’s interior, leading to precise rentable area calculations.
 
  • Efficiency: The technology allows for faster data collection compared to traditional methods, which can save time and resources.
 
  • Documentation choices: The generated 3D models and reports serve as comprehensive documentation for property management, leasing, and other purposes like renovations, refurbishments or re-purposing.
 
  • Minimised Disruption: Laser scanning can be done without major disruptions to the building’s occupants or operations.

It’s important to note that the implementation and use of technology can vary between different surveying companies or organisations in New Zealand. Regulations, standards, and technology adoption might also have evolved since my last update. For the most up-to-date information contact Realserve who can provide the right information.

Yes, a 3D laser scan can be used in digital twin creation. A 3D laser scanner can quickly and accurately capture the geometry and spatial relationships of physical objects and spaces, producing a high-resolution 3D point cloud is the foundation used to create a digital twin. 

Yes you can 3D scan a building and create a model of the exterior as well as the interior floor areas even if it is mutli storey or split level. Every mm of a building can be captured in incredible detail using 3D laser scanning.
No 3D laser scanning is not expensive when you consider the accuracy & volume of data it delivers compared to standard methods of surveying. This can make any documentation faster to produce, there is more detail to work with & the digital information can be manipulated to be used in the BIM process to enable collaboration on a level never seen before. This improvement in efficiency delivers cost savings in multiple areas from labour time to materials or even construction reworks.
No, LiDAR is a type of technology used in 3D laser scanning. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create 3D models of objects and environments. LiDAR works by emitting laser pulses that bounce off of objects in the environment, and then measuring the time it takes for the light to return to the sensor. This information is used to create a 3D point cloud of the environment.
LiDAR and Photogrammetry are both powerful technologies for capturing 3D data, each has its own strengths and weaknesses depending on the specific application. Which technology is better depends on the use case and the specific requirements of the project.

No, LiDAR cannot see through walls. LiDAR works by emitting laser pulses that bounce off of objects in the environment and return to the sensor. The time it takes for the pulses to return to the sensor is used to calculate the distance to the object. LiDAR is unable to penetrate solid objects such as walls, as the laser pulses are blocked by the wall and cannot bounce back to the sensor.

3D laser scanning is highly accurate, with some scanners capable of collecting data with a precision of up to 2mm. The accuracy of the scanning process depends on factors such as the quality of the scanner, the distance between the scanner and the object being scanned, and the complexity of the building or structure being scanned.
The length of time it takes to complete a 3D laser scanning project depends on a variety of factors, including the size and complexity of the building or structure being scanned, the quality of the scanner, and the experience of the scanning team. Generally, a small building can be scanned in a few hours, while larger or more complex structures may take several days.
The 3D model generated by 3D laser scanning can be used for a wide range of purposes, including design, planning, construction, and maintenance. The model can be used to create accurate floor plans, identify potential issues or conflicts, and visualize how different design options will look.

The cost of 3D laser scanning depends on a variety of factors, including the size and complexity of the building or structure being scanned, the quality of the scanner, and the experience of the scanning team. Generally, the cost of 3D laser scanning starts at a few thousand dollars and can range up to tens of thousands of dollars for larger or more complex projects.

3D laser scanning costs will vary based on a combination of factors which include;

  • Location of the building that has to be 3D laser scanned.
  • How easy or difficult the access to the building is.
  • How large is the area that needs to be scanned either land, building exterior or interior floor area.
  • How complex is the building either externally or internally?
  • The estimated time it will take to 3D laser scan all the required areas.
  • Whether a Point Cloud, Revit model or other 2D documentation needs to be created.