3D Modeling

3D Modeling

Global Design Solutions (GDS) helps engineers, architects, facility owners, and industrial clients turn raw laser scanning data into high accuracy 3D models.

Our 3d modeling services bridge the gap between point clouds and usable CAD, BIM, and mesh deliverables. The result is faster project approvals, fewer design errors, and reliable documentation for future work.

Primitive 3D model of an industrial facility showing basic geometry from laser scan data
3D model of a senior citizen lounge area created from laser scan data
3D laser scan model of a golf course created for rainfall analysis and as-built documentation
3D laser scanned and modeled industrial structure with platforms and piping
3D model of an industrial facility with storage stacks, conveyors, and tanks created from laser scan data
3D model of a building interior created from laser scan data as part of a campus acquisition project

Explore our distinctive services:

3D Surface and Mesh Modeling

Point cloud data is often too dense or noisy to use directly. We process scans into clean surface or mesh models with precise geometry, suitable for visualization, simulation, and downstream CAD work. This laser scan modeling approach ensures that even complex features such as structural steel, piping, or curved facades are captured accurately.

Use Case: Facility as built visualization

We convert scanning output from plants, factories, or campus buildings into clear 3D representations. These models assist in retrofit planning, clearance verification, and clash detection, giving project teams confidence before construction begins.

CAD and Solid Modeling

For projects that demand parametric design, we convert scan data into scan to cad model formats. Features such as tanks, conveyors, holes, and pipe networks are modeled to industry standards, making them ready for direct use in design software. This saves engineering teams from manual redrawing and reduces project turnaround times.

BIM Integration & As Built Model Creation

Our as built 3d model services link scan-derived geometry to BIM environments. We create models that integrate into Revit or similar platforms, complete with metadata and structured elements. This enables architects, contractors, and facility managers to coordinate efficiently, manage assets, and plan renovations with confidence.

Reverse Engineering Modeling

When existing files are missing or outdated, our reverse engineering modeling process rebuilds components and assemblies directly from scan data. The result is editable CAD models that can be used for part reproduction, equipment upgrades, or legacy system integration.

Implementation and Workflow

  1. Data intake & QA – We accept common point cloud formats (.las, .e57, .rzf) and review scan quality.

  2. Preprocessing – Noise removal, segmentation, and alignment for consistent results.

  3. Modeling – Creation of surfaces, solids, meshes, or BIM objects to match project goals.

  4. Quality assurance – Dimensional checks against the scan to confirm accuracy.

  5. Delivery & support – Final models provided in CAD or BIM formats (.step, .dwg, Revit, .obj) with optional review rounds.

Results & Proof

  • Models aligned within tight tolerances to source scans

  • Reduced field rework and change orders compared to manual measurements

  • Models delivered in industry-standard formats compatible with engineering workflows

  • Trusted by engineering firms, contractors, and facility owners requiring reliable documentation

Frequently asked questions

Q1. What accuracy can you achieve from scan to model?
A1. Accuracy typically aligns within 1–3 mm, depending on scan quality and project requirements.

Q2. Can you work with scans from any equipment?
A2. Yes, we accept widely used formats such as .las, .e57, and .pts, regardless of scanner brand.

Q3. What is the typical delivery time?
A3. Small projects may be completed in days, while larger facilities or campuses may require several weeks. Timelines are confirmed during quoting.

Q4. What deliverable formats do you provide?
A4. Common formats include .step, .dwg, Revit, and .obj. Deliverables are tailored to client needs.

Q5. How do you handle complex or irregular shapes?
A5. We apply specialized modeling techniques and fitting methods to accurately capture curved pipes, irregular surfaces, and intricate structures.

Request a quote today and see how our 3d modeling services can transform your scan data into accurate, ready-to-use deliverables.

Laser Scan to 3D Modeling Types

Type 1

Primitive Modeling

Primitive 3D model of an industrial plant system showing basic geometry from laser scan data

3D models are created to represent the basic geometry of the existing environment. No intelligence, no additional attributes. Models separated into model types determined by the client.

Formats provided in:
.dwg, .dxf, .rvt, and more…

Use cases:
– Measuring
– Layout review
– Asset location identification
– Tie-in and retrofit designing
– Stakeholder understanding
– And so much more…

Type 2

Advanced Modeling

Advanced 3D model of an industrial plant system created from laser scan data with as-built attributes

3D models are created to represent the exisiting as-builts. Attributes applied as per client requirements. Models separated into model types. Client determines LOD (Level of Detail 100-400)

Formats provided in:
.dwg, .dxf, .rvt, and more…

Use cases:
– Measuring
– Material take offs (MTO’s)
– Asset location identification
– Tie-in and retrofit design with real world attributes.
– Stakeholder understanding
– And so much more…

Type 3

Intelligent Modeling

Intelligent 3D model of an industrial plant system created from laser scan data with attributes applied

3D models are created to represent the existing as-builts with attributes applied as per client requirements. Specification catalogs determined

Software modeling in:
Revit, SPRD, PDMS, E3D, CadWorx

Use cases:
– Measuring
– Parametric models
– Tie-in and retrofit design with real world attributes.
– Engineering analysis
– Asset management
– Smart P&ID’s
-And so much more…

Type 4

Reverse Engineering

Reverse engineered 3D model of an aircraft landing gear system created from laser scan data

3D models are created for extreme precision. Client tolerance requirements addressed.

Formats provided in:
.slprt, .iges, .stp, .stl, .prt, native software formats also available

Use cases:
– Virtual assembly
– Modeling spines, nurbs, lofting
– Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
– Mechanical retrofitting
– Kinematics
– Part replacement
– And so much more…

Note: All modeling can be used for Digital Twin projects.

Project and Resources

3D model of a residential house created from laser scan data
Technical drawings created from a 3D laser scan of an industrial furnace
3D model of a custom lattice-structured arm cast

Recommended Services:

3D Laser Scanning

De-construct your world

Reverse engineering icon showing 3D cube with directional arrows for digital twin modeling by Global Design Solutions

Consulting

Infrastructure and strategy

Turnkey design to install icon representing full-service project delivery by Global Design Solutions

Turnkey Solutions

From scan to fabrication

Illustration of digital twin concept showing human head with gears and lightbulb opposite a head with digital brain

Digital Twin Planning

Pioneering Digital Landscapes

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