How to Create 3D Models from 3D Point Clouds Using Trimble RealWorks

Just as it is easy to create 2D construction drawings from the 3D point cloud, we can also start modeling from the point cloud directly in Trimble RealWorks. With the scanned area loaded as a point cloud, we can isolate particular elements for fast modeling. This video looks at three different elements: a steel beam, a run of pipe, and a stair core.

Modeling steel is very easy with the help of two catalogs of steel types and specifications. But Trimble RealWorks helps the process along by fitting the geometry to the point cloud. In the video example we show how to segment out the point cloud, select the section type we'll be modeling, and even copy that model so we won't have to model every beam by hand.

Pipes are also straightforward to model using the Easy Pipe Tool. Just extract the points from the pipe you'd like to model and software examines the point cloud to determine the diameter of the pipe and runs along the point cloud to quickly model the pipe.

Again, these elements can be exported out of RealWorks and into the BIM modeling software that's appropriate, like Tekla for steel and concrete, or even SketchUp. These BIMs can then be published to Vico Office for 3D constructability analysis, quantity takeoff, 4D scheduling, and 5D estimating. For more best practices in laser scanning, please review this Fridays with Trimble webinar - http://www.vicosoftware.com/best-prac...