College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Architectural Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Architectural Engineering
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor
Megan Hanson, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architectural Engineering Department
Additional Advisors
Elijah Labb, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architectural Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This senior project focuses on the implementation of Scan-to-BIM software for capturing and modeling an existing building within Experimental Construction laboratory. The design of the project was to model the building using a 3D scan with the support of world measurements to document and create a digital model of the building. By doing this the project can evaluate the effectiveness, efficiency, and accuracy of integrating 3D scanning technologies into BIM modeling.
The project included taking data from a recent scan of the Experimental Construction Laboratory. We then took these scans and imported them to Autodesk Revit to develop a detailed BIM model. The focus was on the structural aspects of the building rather than the whole building and architectural details. The model was based on point cloud information with support of real-world measurement to confirm accuracy.
The result was an accurate BIM model of the greenhouse located within the Cal Poly Experimental Construction Laboratory. The model can support future renovation, documentation, and facility management efforts while demonstrating the effectiveness of Scan-to-BIM workflows. The project demonstrated improved efficiency and accuracy compared with traditional field measurement methods. However, the process was not without limitations. Some scans contained errors caused by complex geometry, difficult-to-access locations, and reflective surfaces, which reduced point-cloud quality.
Overall, the project has advanced my knowledge of Scan-to-BIM technology as well has proved that it is a great solution to producing accurate digital models of as-built structures. It had a very intriguing potential for improving the workflow of structural engineering jobs and could benefit from an effective integration of artificial intelligence in the future.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/arcesp/261