Latest 3D Scanning Software Apps & Technologies in the Construction Industry

3D laser scanning is a rapidly evolving technology, and the software and associated technologies are constantly being updated. Here are some of the latest software and associated technologies of 3D laser scanning: 

Also Read Complete Guide on – Scan to BIM: Converting Physical Buildings into Accurate 3D Models

Photogrammetry Software:  

Using Photogrammetry software, you can create 3D models from pictures. It computes, measures and converts them into 3D data using photos. Photogrammetry software is required to perform a 3D scan using a phone, drone, or camera.  

• 3DF Zephyr: Due to its user interface, 3DF Zephyr is one of the top products on the market. It is incredibly user-friendly and intuitive. The 3D scanning process will be guided for inexperienced users, but 3DF Zephyr is not just for beginners. Many useful tools will be used by experts from various industries, such as the capacity to convert the model into CAD software. The 3D model can be adjusted and tweaked in a variety of ways. 
• Agisoft Metashape: In addition to GIS (Geographic Information System) applications, this expert 3D scanning program is popular for game development, visual effects production, and historical research. The software has the ability to deal with aerial and close-range Photogrammetry. Agisoft Metashape is an intriguing feature that enables users to create 4D models by enabling the saving of entire scenes as editable 3D objects. 
• Autodesk ReCap: ReCap stands for Reality Capture in Autodesk. To create 3D models, it employs pictures, but it can also use laser scans. It may be used for close-range and aerial scans. CAD and BIM software can be used with the 3D objects. High-quality models may be created using this 3D scanning software, and they can then be altered using specialized tools. 
• Context Capture by Bentley: This is a highly effective professional Photogrammetry program that can create entire infrastructure landscapes. It will provide you with several cutting-edge tools for organizing and editing 3D models. This program is widely used for building projects since it can produce extremely realistic street views. To produce the greatest 3D models, this software can be used in conjunction with laser scanning and aerial Photogrammetry. Additionally, you may create 3D animations and fly-throughs with Bentley ContextCapture. 
• Colmap: Colmap enables the creation of 3D mesh from a single camera or a collection of cameras. It is simple to use and free. There are more sophisticated methods available, particularly to raise the standard. The 3D model, however, cannot be edited with this software. For quick and simple 3D scanning, it works great. 

• Drone Display:

This 3D scanning software was created specifically for drones, as the name would imply. It has two apps in it. One directs the drone’s flight path and guides it from takeoff to landing. A second program collects the images and builds a 3D model from them. You can use the tools it gives you to measure distances, volumes, and surface areas. You can also include more customized features. Check out more details from – 

• IMAGINE Photogrammetry:

A reputable Photogrammetry program is IMAGINE. If you intend to use mapping 3D scans, there are some crucial factors you should take into account. It is widely utilized by the national and local mapping agencies, the commercial mapping sector, and the department of transportation. It offers users a wide range of expert tools, including several point cloud views, to help modify the photographs and handle massive amounts of data. Read more from the video.

• Meshroom: Meshroom is unique in that it has a simple learning curve. The node-based 3D scanning procedure is incredibly simple to use and produces a 3D model for you. Additionally, you have the choice to alter the nodes afterwards and modify the 3D scan to suit your requirements. 
• MicMac: The French National Geographic Institute and the French National School of Geographic Sciences developed this expert photogrammetry program. It gives you extremely specialized tools, particularly for business and academic purposes. Both small and large scale scans can be done using it. 
• OpenMVG: Yet another professional 3D scanning application. Both the Multiple View Geometry (MVG) industry and computer vision researchers trust it. Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry is used by OpenMVG. 

• Photomodeler: Using three separate techniques, Photomodeler enables you to create 3D things. You can automatically create a 3D model from coded targets, manually fit common traits, or match point clouds from overlapping photos. This 3D scanning program is user-friendly and reasonably priced. 
• Pix4D: This 3D scanning software covers all the tools from flying a drone to generating a 3D model. It ensures correct drone path and enables you to create orthomosaics, maps for indexing, elevation models and point clouds for producing an accurate 3D model. You also have access to different analytic tools so the model can be edited.