Scan. Capture. Model.
When you’re designing around existing plant, guessing from outdated drawings can create costly problems. 3D laser scanning captures existing plant, structures and equipment as accurate 3D data, creating a reliable foundation for modelling, engineering and design.
Ingenia combines 15+ years of engineering experience with the same team handling modelling, engineering and drafting, so captured site data can move directly into practical design work. Our reality capture process helps turn existing conditions into usable models for upgrades, modifications, brownfield projects and new design.
Want to take a closer look? Explore our 3D laser scanning and point cloud services below, or contact us to discuss your project today.
What Is 3D Laser Scanning and Point Cloud Data?
3D laser scanning captures the existing dimensions and geometry of a physical environment using LiDAR. The scanner records millions of individual measurements from visible surfaces, which are combined to create a point cloud.
Laser scanner (LiDAR)
A laser scanner uses LiDAR to measure the distance between the scanner and surrounding surfaces. It collects millions of individual points across visible plant, structures, equipment and other features. These measurements are combined to create a detailed 3D representation of the scanned environment.
Point cloud
A point cloud is a digital representation of a physical object, structure or space made up of thousands or millions of individually measured points. Each point has coordinates that define its position in 3D space, creating a measured representation of the physical geometry.
Point clouds can be generated through laser scanning or photogrammetry and are commonly supplied in formats such as E57 and RCP, allowing them to be imported into compatible CAD and engineering software.
How Point Cloud Scanning Works: From Site Capture to Engineering Model
- Scope and scan plan
The project scope and scanning requirements are agreed with the site before capture begins. This establishes what needs to be captured, the areas to be accessed and the level of detail required for the engineering work. - Capture the site
The scanner is positioned at multiple locations around the site to capture plant, structures, equipment and other visible surfaces from different angles. - Register and clean the scans
The individual scans are registered to create a single point cloud. The resulting data is then reviewed and cleaned up so it is ready for use in the next stage of the project. - Build the 3D model
The registered point cloud provides the measured reference for 3D modelling in CAD. - Engineer, design and draft from the model
The completed model can then be used for engineering design, documentation and drafting. Have a look at our design process to transform concepts into coordinated models.
Who Needs 3D Laser Scanning?
Brownfield Upgrades and Plant Retrofits
New installations often need to fit around existing equipment and structures that have changed over time. Laser scanning captures the current site conditions so engineers can design around what is actually there.
Access Platforms and Towers
Complex structures can make it difficult to determine access requirements and connection points from drawings alone. 3D laser scanning captures the existing structure in detail, providing accurate spatial data to help identify connection points.
Mechanical Equipment and Process Plant
Dust collectors, pipework, vessels and other process equipment often require precise tie-in points before fabrication can begin. Capturing the existing geometry helps designers work from accurate site information.
Facilities That Require Records
A registered point cloud provides a measured reference of existing assets that can support future projects, inspections and safety reviews. Keeping accurate records can also help teams assess changes over time.
Benefits of 3D Laser Scanning for Engineering Projects
3D laser scanning lets engineers check designs against real site geometry before anything is fabricated, helping reduce uncertainty during design, fabrication and installation.
- Accurate as-built dimensions
- Fewer return site visits
- Clashes identified on screen before installation
- Less time working at height or near live plant
- More confident shutdown planning
Project Example: Dust Collector Point Cloud
See how at Ingenia we use point cloud data to fit new dust collection capabilities into an existing industrial site.
For our Dust Collector project, we integrated point cloud data into the engineering process to capture the existing work site and understand how new plant and system capabilities could fit within it. This gave us an accurate 3D reference to work from as we developed the project.
View the Dust Collector Point Cloud project.
Why Choose Us? The Ingenia Difference
From site capture to engineering design, one team can take it all the way.
Let us get you up to speed. Contact us on 08 7221 9970 to discuss your project.
