What is a Point Cloud?
A point cloud is a digital 3D representation composed of spatially defined points, often used for detailed modelling, analysis, and visualisation. These points collectively capture the surface geometry of objects or spaces and are widely applied in industries such as architecture, construction, and engineering.
Here's an example of a point cloud
Applications of Point Clouds
Point clouds serve as the foundation for creating accurate 3D models in Building Information Modelling (BIM). They are particularly useful when traditional measurement tools fall short, such as:
Capturing high, unreachable structures.
Documenting irregular wall angles or vaulted designs.
Generating precise representations of complex environments like warehouses with high ceilings.
File Formats and Accessibility
Giraffe360 provides point clouds as an add-on. The formats offered include:
E57
A universal standard compatible with most 3D modelling software, like Autodesk Recap Pro or CloudCompare.
E57 Interior scans are delivered on a floor by floor basis
If a project has both interior and exterior scans, exterior scans come as separate E57 files. They do not come aligned with each other as interior scans. Alignment, if needed, can be done in a Point Cloud software.
If project has ONLY exterior scans, E57 file is not available. However PLY format is available (each scan a separate file)
In order to import Point Cloud into Autodesk Revit (or any other Autodesk modelling tool supporting Point Clouds), the E57 format first needs to be saved to RCP file. For that Autodesk Recap Pro is required.
E57 Examples
Interior scans floor by floor E57
Single exterior scan E57
PLY
Provided on a scan-by-scan basis but unstitched, requiring additional effort to assemble.
PLY Example
Single exterior scan PLY
Video explaining point clouds