A reliable as-built capture connects the physical factory with digital planning. Bross Consulting covers capture planning, on-site recording, quality checks and delivery – matched to the building, required accuracy and downstream use.
From real facility to usable data
Depending on the task, the result is a geometric point cloud, a photorealistic spatial model or a combination of both. Teams can assess the existing environment across locations, update planning bases and reduce unnecessary repeat visits.
We deliberately distinguish between geometrically reliable capture data, visual walk-through documentation and a functionally enriched digital factory model. This gives clients the level of detail their decision actually requires.
Capture methods for different tasks
Terrestrial laser scanning
Stationary scanners capture buildings, halls and equipment from defined positions. This method is suitable where high detail, controlled viewpoints and a reliable geometric base are required.
Mobile SLAM scanning
Mobile scanners capture connected areas during a walkthrough. This is particularly efficient for extensive production, logistics and technical spaces. Depending on the project, we use systems including XGRIDS Lixel K2 and PortalCam.
Accuracy, density and capture time depend on the object, visibility, recording distance and selected system. We define these requirements before the project starts.
The data and formats you receive
| Capture method | Output | Typical downstream use |
|---|---|---|
| Terrestrial scanner | E57 | Point cloud for as-built planning, CAD/BIM workflows and geometric review |
| Mobile SLAM scanner | E57 | Connected point cloud for large industrial and equipment areas |
| XGRIDS Lixel K2 and PortalCam | PLY | Photorealistic spatial models and web-based visualization |
The specific delivery scope is agreed before capture so that coordinate system, file size, resolution and interfaces with the target software are clear from the start.
Three delivery levels – from capture to decision
- 01
3D as-built capture
We plan the route, capture the approved area and check the data for completeness. You receive the agreed E57 or PLY files.
- 02
Virtual factory tour with siteviewer
siteviewer turns real spaces into a photorealistic 3D tour in the web browser. It supports documentation, remote coordination and preparation for modifications. The tour is not automatically a certified CAD or BIM model.
- 03
Analysis and planning with matflow
matflow combines factory tours, analyses and visualizations on a shared data basis. Bross Consulting uses this foundation to assess material flows, areas and planning scenarios and to prepare decisions.
Digital site capture is not a separate planning process. It provides a reliable foundation for factory planning and its digital methods.
The methodological foundations – from scan to a complete 3D planning model – are described in the article Digital factory model: using a scan to create a 3D planning model.
Choosing the right route
- E57 point cloud: when geometry, distances and downstream planning software are the priority.
- PLY model: when a spatially realistic, freely viewable representation is required.
- siteviewer: when many stakeholders need to understand an area in the browser without additional travel.
- matflow: when the digital as-built environment should support analyses, planning scenarios and reliable decisions.
Tools we use
The tools cover different steps: capture, walk-through preparation and analysis with Bross's own tools, and layout and CAD planning through to BIM-ready building handover with third-party software.
Capture
- XGRIDS Lixel K2: mobile SLAM laser scanner that captures connected areas on the move.
- PortalCam: mobile, photorealistic capture that complements the geometric point cloud.
Preparation and walk-through (Bross's own tools)
- siteviewer: turns the capture into a photorealistic 3D walkthrough in the web browser.
- matflow: combines factory tours, material-flow analysis and planning scenarios on a shared data basis.
Layout and CAD planning (third-party software)
- vistable: factory layout software used to build and compare layout variants.
- Autodesk AutoCAD: CAD basis and interface to building and specialist planning, foundation for handover as a Scan-to-BIM model.
Project example
For a cross-location factory planning project, an existing production area was digitally captured and prepared for virtual collaboration. Stakeholders could understand spatial relationships, access routes and machine surroundings remotely. The digital basis reduced clarification loops and supported subsequent layout and material flow planning – without publishing client names or sensitive operating data.