Frequently asked questions.
Answers to common questions about our services, survey technology and the models and data we deliver.
Working with Spacion
What services do you offer?
We provide surveying, reality capture and BIM services for construction and development, including point cloud surveys, Scan-to-BIM, model validation, PAS 128 utility surveys, topographical surveys, virtual tours, drone surveys and progress monitoring.
Which areas do you cover?
Our offices are in Birmingham and London, and our teams work nationwide, with extensive experience across the Midlands, the North, the South East and the South West.
Which sectors do you work with?
Architecture, engineering, property and development, construction, retail and hospitality, and culture and heritage.
Survey technology explained
What is reality capture?
Reality capture is the process of scanning objects, buildings or sites and turning that data into accurate 3D models and visualisations. It records exactly how something looks and measures in the real world.
The most common methods are laser scanners, 360° cameras and drone photogrammetry, producing everything from simple images to detailed 3D point clouds.
What is laser scanning and how do point clouds work?
A laser scanner takes a distance measurement in every direction, rapidly capturing the surface shape of objects, buildings and landscapes. High-resolution scanners capture millions of points per second.
Each measurement becomes a single point with a precise position. Together these form a point cloud: a detailed 3D record of the scanned area that becomes the foundation for drawings, models and digital twins.
What is LiDAR?
LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. It measures distance by targeting a surface with a laser and timing how long the reflected light takes to return. Repeated millions of times, this builds a detailed and accurate 3D picture of the area being surveyed.
Depending on the system, LiDAR can capture objects from a few metres to more than 200 metres away.
What is photogrammetry?
Photogrammetry turns overlapping 2D photographs, often aerial images captured by drone, into measurable 3D models of surfaces and structures.
It is widely used across construction, development, surveying and heritage projects to record real-world conditions in high detail.
What are the advantages of drone surveys?
In difficult or hard-to-reach locations, manual survey methods are slower and carry greater risk. Drones reach roofs, façades and large sites quickly and safely, without scaffolding or access equipment.
What is a digital twin?
A digital twin is an accurate digital replica of a physical building or site that mirrors its real-world conditions, bringing measurements, geometry and detail into a single model teams can view and measure remotely.
At Spacion this starts with reality capture: laser scanning, drone surveys and 360° imagery, processed into point clouds and 3D models.
Models and deliverables
What is Scan-to-BIM?
Scan-to-BIM turns a point cloud of an existing building or site into an accurate 3D model in software such as Revit or ArchiCAD, where walls, floors, structure and services are represented as measurable objects.
It gives architects, engineers and contractors a reliable record of existing conditions, reducing repeat site visits. It is especially valuable on refurbishment, retrofit and renovation projects.
What are BIM models and when are they used?
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a process for creating and managing information on a construction project throughout its lifecycle. A BIM model is a 3D model enriched with data, giving a coordinated description of the built asset.
BIM models are used from early design through construction and into operation, so the whole project team works from a single shared source.
What are Revit models and when are they used?
Revit models are 3D BIM models created in Autodesk Revit. They hold both the geometry and the data behind each building element.
They are used by architects, structural and MEP engineers, designers and contractors across the building lifecycle, from design and construction to operation and refurbishment.
What are ArchiCAD models and when are they used?
ArchiCAD models are 3D building models created in Graphisoft ArchiCAD, a popular alternative to Revit. Their model views are also used to produce the architectural drawings needed for documentation.
We recently used ArchiCAD to provide 2D stonework elevations for Hanehouse Developments on the Bostin Clothing development in Birmingham.
What is model validation?
Model validation compares a registered point cloud of installed works on site with the design or BIM model, and assesses any deviations against agreed project tolerances.
It identifies discrepancies before they cause problems on site, so they can be resolved while trades are still present rather than at handover.
What are virtual tours and how are they made?
Virtual tours are interactive experiences that let people explore a real space from any angle in a web browser, built from 360° imagery and spatial capture.
We present a draft for review and refine it with you. The finished tour can be embedded on a website or shared by link or QR code.
Still have a question?
Tell us about your project and what you need to know. Our survey and BIM team will help.