Pointcloud

At Momaso, we scan your building quickly and accurately using a 3D scanner. But what exactly is involved? How does it work? In a number of blogs, we will give you a glimpse into our business. We will explain exactly what we do and how we do it. We start with pointcloud.

What’s a pointcloud?

A pointcloud is a collection of measurement points where each measurement point has its own coordinate (with X, Y or Z value). These measurement points provide a 3D representation of a building or installation. This measurement is done with a 3D scanner. The scanner measures everything that you would be able to see yourself if you were sitting in the scanner. This image is then recorded in a kind of cloud of millions of measurement points. Because the scanner does not measure through anything, it is necessary to measure from several locations.

How does a pointcloud work?

Scanning a building or facility with a laser scanner reflects a large number of data points back from edges and surfaces. Our 3D scanner fires 600,000 points every second. This records the exact size and gives you a clear overview of your building.

How is a pointcloud made?

A pointcloud is created by measuring an object with a laser scanner. The result of the measurement is a cloud of measurement points where each point is a coordinate with the correct X, Y and Z value. The scans are made at different points of the object. These scans are then merged into one large file. This cloud of measurement points is called a registered point cloud.

Which devices are used to create a pointcloud?

A pointcloud is made with the help of a 3D laser scanner. This scanner measures points and captures all these points in a point cloud. The scanner does not directly produce a drawing but you get a model that consists of points.

For what can a pointcloud be used?

The pointcloud can be used both directly and indirectly. Cuts or projections are made of the pointcloud and used as a basis for drawing.

Pointclouds are also often used for making visualisations and professional simulations. For example, shape change or floor flatness can be mapped. A pointcloud can also be used in various drawing packages.

Do you still have questions after reading this blog? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We can be reached via telephone and e-mail and will be more than happy to help you.