The creation of 3D building models using laser-scanning data for BIM modelling

Abstract

The digital 3D models of the buildings based on laser-scanning data become a vital source of data and information repository to the Architecture, Construction, Engineering and Facilities Management (AEC & FM) sectors. A major advantage of the points cloud data captured by laser-scanning technology is its ability to the representation of the details of the three-dimensional models to exemplify the as-is conditions of buildings. However, the creation process of 3D models from the dense coloured 3D points provided by laser scanners has a significant impact on the quality of that produced models including building edges, walls, doors and windows. In particular, much uncertainty still exists about the compatibilities between the points cloud data formats and software extensions for the creation of as-is Building Information Modelling (BIM) models of the buildings. This paper presents a new framework for the creation of a 3D building model by transferring laser-scanning data into BIM software, such as Autodesk Revit. In our framework, an adopted link between software extensions was established in creating an accurate 3D building model. This framework is a road map of the required steps for investing the points cloud data relevant to BIM modelling. The promising results of the new approach illustrate to extract the 3D models of the buildings can reduce time-consuming, cost and efforts in dealing with or transferring laser-scanning data into Autodesk Revit for BIM models.