Scan-to-BIM | Emesent

Capture a more comprehensive dataset and avoid expensive revisits

The construction industry relies on 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) to plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. Yet traditional data capture methods such as terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.

With Hovermap’s advanced 3D LiDAR scanning technology, capturing as-built conditions for conversion into detailed BIM models is faster and more efficient than ever. This streamlined approach delivers up-to-date, high-accuracy data in a fraction of the time — enabling more frequent scanning, real-time progress tracking, and better decision-making across the project lifecycle.

Traditional methods can slow you down

Traditional scanning methods, especially with terrestrial laser scanning (TLS), are labor-intensive and time-consuming — particularly in complex buildings or infrastructure projects that require multiple set-ups. This not only drives up costs during capture and post-processing but also limits the ability to scan frequently enough for effective progress tracking. As a result, maintaining a live digital twin becomes difficult in the fast-paced world of construction. Accurate data capture demands specialized training and expertise, adding to project complexity. Moreover, while TLS provides high-resolution 3D data, it often needs to be supplemented to access hidden or hard-to-reach areas. Environmental conditions like weather, lighting, and physical obstructions can further compromise scan quality.

Optimized for enclosed spaces and underground mines, and applicable to both hard rock (change detection) and soft rock (convergence monitoring) mines, Emesent’s Change Detection and Convergence Monitoring solution combines rapid capture mobile SLAM technology with a faster, easier and more repeatable processing workflow. This enables mining operators to scan excavations over a larger area more regularly and monitor change using accurate, quantitative dataHovermap, Emesent’s versatile LiDAR mapping solution, transforms Scan to BIM workflows by enabling highly accurate, efficient, and flexible data capture — reducing scanning time by up to 90% compared to traditional terrestrial laser scanning (TLS).

Hovermap accelerates the Scan to BIM process with rapid scanning and multi-platform deployment: use it handheld or on a backpack for tight or indoor spaces, or mount it to a drone or vehicle for fast scanning over large areas. Whether capturing expansive exteriors or intricate pipework, Hovermap ensures comprehensive, high-resolution coverage — even in GPS-denied environments. The simplicity and speed of scanning make it easy to capture data more frequently, enabling live digital twins for enhanced progress monitoring, real-time updates, and ongoing comparisons against design.

Captured data is processed and automatically georeferenced using Emesent Aura software, producing accurate point clouds ready for direct integration into 3D BIM software. The result is an as-built model that mirrors real-world conditions — ideal for clash detection, progress tracking and ongoing management.

When it comes to Scan to BIM, Hovermap eliminates the delays of traditional terrestrial laser scanning, allowing project teams to make faster, more informed decisions with accurate, up-to-date site information.

Data capture in minutes

Fast and accurate data capture, at least 10x faster than traditional methods — even in hard-to-access or GPS-denied areas

High density colorized scans

Hovermap’s high-density data capture ensures detailed 3D colorized models

Accurate results

Capture precise 3D spatial data and intricate structural detail including walls, ceilings, floors, MEP and HVAC systems

Rapid, large scale capture

Efficient for complex or large-scale sites such as high-rises, tunnels, industrial plants

Versatile deployment

A single Hovermap can be deployed on multiple platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage from intricate pipes to large areas

Faster workflows

Allows continuous scanning and non stop image capture with automated target detection and georeferencing — no need to touch each control point

Versatile deployment

Plug-and-play design allows easy switching between platforms — hand-held; attached to a drone, vehicle, or pole; lowered in a cage; or mounted to a backpack