Skip to content

Mapping & Design Data

3D Laser Scanning & LiDAR

Can we capture this structure or site in detailed 3D?

Also called: terrestrial laser scanning, lidar survey, point cloud, 3d scan, or reality capture.

Understanding the work

Terrestrial laser scanning records every visible surface as a dense, measurable point cloud. We register scans to survey control and can extract CAD linework, surfaces, or models for renovation, design, and documentation.

  • Facilities & renovations
  • Bridges & infrastructure
  • Large or complex sites

Who it’s for

  • Facility and plant owners
  • Architects and engineers working with existing structures
  • Teams documenting complex or hazardous sites

Typical work involved

  • Scan planning for full coverage
  • Field scanning tied to survey control
  • Registration, cleanup, and quality review

The result

What you’ll receive

  • Registered 3D point cloud
  • 3D models or 2D drawings as scoped
  • Panoramic imagery & measurements

Common questions

What clients ask about this work

What is LiDAR or laser scanning?

A laser scanner measures many points on visible surfaces, producing a detailed three-dimensional set of coordinates called a point cloud.

What is a point cloud?

A point cloud is a set of measured 3D points showing scanned surfaces. It may need processing before it becomes an engineering drawing or model.

Can a point cloud be turned into CAD drawings?

Yes, selected features and surfaces can be extracted, but the amount of modeling work depends on the required detail and deliverable.

Will scanning capture everything behind walls or vegetation?

No. Laser scanning generally needs a clear line of sight. Hidden or blocked areas can require additional setups or another method.

Browse all questions

Scope, applicable standards, accuracy, deliverables, timing, and price are confirmed in writing for each project.