CAPTURE METHODS
Choosing the right way to document your property
Different projects require different types of field documentation. AU Design US can use Leica BLK360 LiDAR scanning, Matterport 3D capture, conventional field measurement—or a combination of methods—based on the building, required level of detail and final deliverables.
Leica BLK360 LiDAR scanning
Precision dimensional capture
Leica BLK360 LiDAR creates detailed three-dimensional point-cloud data that can provide a detailed dimensional record of existing buildings, interiors and other conditions.
It is especially useful when the project requires detailed geometry, complex measurements or a reliable digital basis for CAD or Revit documentation.
Best for
- Point-cloud capture
- Detailed dimensional documentation
- Complex existing geometry
- Scan-to-CAD / scan-to-Revit workflows
Matterport 3D capture
Immersive visual documentation
Matterport provides a navigable visual record of the existing space that can remain available for reference after the field visit.
It can help owners, designers, contractors and project teams review rooms, finishes and spatial relationships remotely without relying only on still photographs.
Best for
- 3D walkthroughs
- Remote visual reference
- Design-team collaboration
- Ongoing project documentation
Conventional field measurement
Efficient documentation for simpler scopes
Not every property requires full 3D scanning. For smaller or less complex projects, conventional measurements, photographs and field notes may provide the information needed efficiently.
AU Design US can match the documentation method to the project rather than applying the same technology to every job.
Best for
- Smaller project scopes
- Straightforward spaces
- Targeted measurements
- Projects that do not require full scan data
Some projects benefit from more than one method. Leica can provide detailed dimensional data while Matterport adds an accessible visual record, and conventional measurements may still be used where appropriate.
PROJECT APPLICATIONS
Where 3D scanning adds value
Reality capture can be especially useful when reliable existing drawings are unavailable, a space has changed over time, or the project involves conditions that are difficult to document efficiently with basic field measurements alone.
SCAN-TO-DOCUMENTATION
From captured conditions to usable project documentation
The value of reality capture is not just the scan itself. AU Design US can use field data as the basis for the drawings, models and digital documentation required for the next stage of a project.
Field capture
Document the property as it exists
Leica BLK360 LiDAR, Matterport 3D capture, conventional measurements and photography can be used as appropriate to record the conditions relevant to the project.
Captured data
Create a measurable digital reference
LiDAR scanning can produce point-cloud data that records the spatial relationships and geometry captured in the field, while visual documentation provides continued reference to the existing space.
Project files
Turn captured conditions into project files
Depending on the scope, captured information can support AutoCAD drawings, Revit models, floor plans, elevations, sections and other existing-condition documentation.
Project deliverables are established before work begins. A project may require raw capture data, finished drawings or models, visual documentation, or a combination of deliverables.
PROJECT WORKFLOW
From project scope to digital delivery
Every scanning project begins with the intended use of the information. AU Design US establishes what needs to be captured, which documentation method fits the project and what files or drawings are required before field work begins.
01
Define the project scope
We review the property, areas to be documented, intended use of the information and required deliverables to determine the appropriate field-capture approach.
02
Capture existing conditions
AU Design US documents the agreed areas using Leica BLK360 LiDAR, Matterport 3D capture, conventional measurements, photography or a combination of methods as appropriate.
03
Process the captured data
Field information is organized and used to prepare the point clouds, drawings, models or other documentation included in the project scope.
04
Review and deliver project files
The completed documentation is reviewed and delivered in the agreed formats so the owner, designer, contractor or project team can use it for the next phase of work.
FOR INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Start your design work with dependable existing-condition information
Interior design projects often begin with an existing space that needs to be measured, documented and understood before proposed layouts can be developed. AU Design US can handle that field-documentation stage so your team has a reliable reference for the conditions already in place.
Depending on the project, that may include Leica LiDAR scanning, Matterport 3D capture, conventional measurements and the drawings or digital files needed to support the design process.
Existing plans and dimensions
Start space planning and design development with documented existing conditions rather than relying on outdated drawings or incomplete field notes.
Matterport walkthroughs for continued reference
Revisit the captured space virtually to review rooms, finishes and spatial relationships after the field visit.
Digital files for your workflow
Depending on scope, AU Design US can provide CAD drawings, Revit models, point-cloud data and other documentation to support the design team.
Documentation tailored to the project
Floor plans, interior elevations, reflected ceiling information and other existing-condition drawings can be included where required by the project scope.
Looking for an ongoing drafting and documentation partner?
Tell us about the types of projects and deliverables your design practice needs.
Tell Us About Your Project or Partnership
Tell us about your current project or the way your design firm typically works. We’ll use the information to understand the drafting support you need and whether you’re looking for help with one project, recurring work, or both.
CONNECTED CAPABILITIES
Field capture connected to the documentation your project needs
AU Design US combines existing-condition capture with architectural drafting and digital documentation. That means the field information can become more than a record of the property—it can provide the basis for drawings, models and other files used by the project team.
Project-matched capture
Leica & Matterport
CAD & Revit documentation
Residential & commercial
Dallas–Fort Worth field service
The result is a connected workflow from existing-condition capture to usable project documentation.
DALLAS–FORT WORTH SERVICE AREA
3D scanning and reality capture across DFW
AU Design US provides on-site existing-condition capture for residential and commercial properties across Dallas–Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas communities. Because scanning and field measurement take place at the property, project location, building size and required scope are considered when planning the site visit.
Serving communities across the Metroplex
- Dallas
- Fort Worth
- Arlington
- Plano
- Frisco
- McKinney
- Irving
- Garland
- Richardson
- Carrollton
- Grapevine
- Southlake
Have a project outside these cities?
AU Design US works throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area and may be able to accommodate projects elsewhere in North Texas depending on location and scope. Tell us where the property is located and what needs to be documented.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
3D laser scanning questions
Answers to common questions about 3D laser scanning, LiDAR, Matterport, point clouds, existing-condition capture and project deliverables.
What is 3D laser scanning?
3D laser scanning uses LiDAR technology to capture the shape and dimensions of an existing building or space as three-dimensional data. AU Design US can use that information as the basis for point clouds, drawings, models and other existing-condition documentation included in the project scope.
What is a point cloud?
A point cloud is a three-dimensional collection of measured points that represents surfaces and geometry captured during laser scanning. It provides a detailed digital reference that can support CAD drafting, Revit modeling and other documentation of existing conditions.
What is the difference between Leica BLK360 and Matterport?
Leica BLK360 uses LiDAR to capture detailed dimensional data and generate point clouds. Matterport is especially useful for creating an immersive visual record of a property that can be revisited remotely. Some projects benefit from one method, while others may benefit from using both.
Does every project require 3D laser scanning?
No. Smaller or less complex projects may be documented efficiently with conventional measurements, photographs and field notes. AU Design US selects the capture method according to the property, required level of detail and final deliverables rather than using the same technology for every project.
Can you create AutoCAD drawings or Revit models from scan data?
Yes, when those deliverables are included in the project scope. Captured field information can support AutoCAD drawings, Revit models, floor plans, elevations, sections and other existing-condition documentation.
Is 3D laser scanning the same as an as-built drawing?
No. Scanning is a method of documenting the existing property, while an as-built or existing-condition drawing is a finished document created from field information. A scanning project may lead to as-built drawings, but the scan data and the finished drawings are different deliverables.
What types of projects benefit from 3D scanning?
Scanning can be useful for commercial tenant improvements, home additions and remodeling, interior renovations, existing buildings without reliable plans, complex building geometry and larger properties that require detailed documentation. Whether scanning is appropriate depends on the specific project.
What information do you need to quote a scanning project?
Helpful information includes the property location, approximate building or area size, the portions of the property that need to be documented, the purpose of the project and the deliverables you expect to receive. Existing drawings, photos, CAD files and schedule information can also help define the scope.
START YOUR PROJECT
Tell us about your 3D scanning project
Whether you need LiDAR scanning, Matterport capture, existing-condition drawings or a combination of services, tell us what you need documented and how the information will be used.
The more we know about the property and required deliverables, the easier it is to recommend the appropriate field-capture approach and define the project scope.
Prefer to talk first?
Helpful details include:
- Property location
- Residential or commercial property type
- Approximate building or area size, if known
- Areas that need to be captured
- Purpose of the documentation
- CAD, Revit, point cloud or Matterport requirements
- Existing plans or reference files
- Desired project schedule
Existing drawings, photos or other reference files can be uploaded with your request when available.
Request a free quote
Provide as much information as you currently have.
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