POINT CLOUD TO TAKEOFF SOFTWARE: YOUR KEY TO SUCCESS
When it comes to construction projects, having accurate information about the job site is vital. The quality of the data and management of the information is crucial to ensuring the project is cost-effective and has a successful outcome. There have been many advances in the technologies used for creating precise maps for use in earthwork projects. However, have you struggled with getting your point cloud into your takeoff software? You are not alone!
What is a Point Cloud?
A point cloud is a set of data points in space. They are generally produced by 3D scanners, Lidar, or photogrammetry software, which measure many points on the external surfaces of objects around them. It is a colorful and realistic representation of the job site that allows you to extract information from it to assess the site's current state. In earthmoving, a point cloud, together with your orthophotos in the background, would make it easier to see any changes in topography or spot something that doesn't belong. Possibly, your car, office trailer, tree, or pipe stockpile was in the path of the data collection.
Job site point cloud
What is Digital Takeoff Software?
Estimators and contractors utilize digital takeoff software to assist them with producing a detailed cost estimate for their projects. They have to determine the quantity of each material needed and their associated costs to accurately bid a job. Traditionally, the estimates were calculated manually, which was a cumbersome process. Not only was it time-consuming, but not everyone had the experience required to perform the manual calculations correctly, as many projects can be quite complex. Digital takeoff software can read the plan-set or CAD files and calculate the quantity for each material. It can also quickly readjust the calculations based on any revisions that may occur.
Integrating your Point Cloud Data with your Takeoff Software
Once you have flown the job and have your file outputs (e.g., Digital Terrain Models, Orthophotos, Point Cloud.LAS), it's time to do something with the information. The problem is that your takeoff software will not be compatible with the data from your point cloud and will not accept them directly. So, what do you do? The solution is using an intermediary software which will allow you to manipulate the specific point cloud data easily. There are a lot of additional filters in the intermediary software to clean your cloud data. It also allows you to generate your point grid. Finally, by using an intermediary software, your point file size will be made as small as possible to function properly and be easily moved into your takeoff software.
Some Intermediary Software Options
There are plenty of options in the marketplace when it comes to software that can be used to get your information from the cloud into your takeoff software. For example, Carlson, Autodesk, and Trimble all have software or modules available to get this information seamlessly. We recommend this approach to getting your files smoothly into your takeoff software. If you still have questions or want to discuss this, give us a call.