Traditional surveying and as-built modeling techniques take a significant toll on project timelines and budgets. 3D scanning technology by Matterport is an effective, modern alternative that simplifies scanning, improves accuracy and takes less time than most predecessor technologies. Let’s discuss this surveying technology, how it streamlines workflows and why it leads to lower surveying costs and better project outcomes.
What Is Matterport Technology?
Matterport technology is an impressive system that relies on 3D cameras and artificial intelligence to generate immersive models. Capturing the space and then creating a “digital twin” or hyperaccurate 3D model is similar to as-built modeling, but it creates more dynamic 3D replicas.
These models capture actual site conditions with high precision, making them ideal for preconstruction and even for preparing for remodels and expansions. Unlike modeling methods that focus on a single aspect, Matterport technology captures both spatial and visual data for greater accuracy.
But what about the equipment itself? The Matterport camera is a complex but user-friendly system that combines high-resolution photography with secondary scanning techniques such as infrared or Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) depth sensors. Placed on a tripod in the middle of the space, the camera creates a comprehensive scan of everything within range before being moved to the next space.
How Matterport Supports Lower Surveying Costs
If you are looking for ways to save money on site surveying, consider the following benefits of Matterport for architects and construction companies:
Direct Cost Savings
Traditional survey methods often require a fairly large workforce to survey a complex site. As a result, labor costs for a traditional survey can be high. Transporting bulky equipment and the required workforce can further elevate these expenses. Depending on the site’s size and complexity, a single survey can take multiple days, increasing labor costs and potentially incurring accommodation costs.
By comparison, creating a digital twin with a Matterport camera requires only one person. It’s also a much more efficient approach that uses compact equipment, which can eliminate the costs of repeated travel or accommodation. Some companies report a 75% reduction in project planning costs when using Matterport technology for site surveys.
Time Efficiency
Matterport site surveying doesn’t just lead to cost savings for construction firms — it also expedites workflows and improves efficiency. Creating as-built models with Matterport is much simpler than traditional techniques, which means architectural and engineering surveying requires fewer hours on-site. Some companies have reported time savings of up to 30% when using Matterport digital twins for their design-build programs.
In traditional surveying, missed measurements are common and can significantly delay project workflows. Due to Matterport’s hyperaccurate approach, these models also significantly reduce the need for return visits to the survey site. Since the camera scans the entire area, essential measurements should be captured automatically during the first survey attempt. Matterport enables you to produce building information model (BIM) files or computer-aided design (CAD) files for construction and architectural design. This faster approach to data processing means your teams can start the project sooner.
Supporting Architects and Engineers With Clearer Project Data
One of the most significant advantages of Matterport for architects and engineers is that it works well with most of the file formats that they use daily. From seamless BIM and CAD integration to ready-to-use Revit models from scans, Matterport makes project data clearer. Since point cloud-to-BIM services are available from Matterport, the process becomes even easier.
Matterport BIM files integrate directly into Autodesk Revit, eliminating extensive time spent on manual modeling. Matterport also allows users to install dedicated add-ons for CAD and BIM files, allowing them to create DWG and .DXF files for both 2D and 3D drafting. You can also invest in the MatterPak™ Bundle of assets, which gives you everything you need for most design scenarios. This package is a key addition for most design professionals. It includes point cloud (.xyz) files, a reflected ceiling plan, and a high-resolution floor plan in addition to the 3D mesh file with essential texture map images.
This diverse offering is one of the main differentiators when comparing Matterport vs. traditional surveying techniques. While Matterport can reduce surveying costs and time frames, it also expedites the rest of the design life cycle. Since teams can walk through digital twins together online, they experience improved communication and can make decisions together. The precise nature of digital twins also helps identify potential conflicts between structural elements, architectural design, and mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems earlier in the process, saving time and money later on.
Build Smarter With a More Connected Construction Approach
If you’re looking to reduce surveying costs and save time, consider investing in a tech-forward solution like Matterport for construction. From streamlining design workflows to using digital twin construction to improve accuracy, the team at Alta Construction knows how to make the most of the available tools.
Ready to learn more about Matterport site surveying and other useful technology? Contact us today to learn how we deliver reliable value with these kinds of tools.