View Point Cloud Data as 3D Models
Overview
The Point Cloud Viewer renders scanned data as 3D point-based models. This article provides an overview of the core tools within the Point Cloud Viewer and details their functions and usage.
When to use it
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Scan-to-Model Verification: Compare point cloud scans against design models to check accuracy, detect deviations, and validate as-built conditions.
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Clash Detection & Issue Identification: Inspect scanned environments to identify clashes, obstructions, or discrepancies that may impact construction or maintenance.
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Site Context & Visualisation: Explore high-density 3D scans for spatial awareness, helping teams understand site layout, existing conditions, and constraints.
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Progress Tracking & Documentation: Use point clouds captured at different project phases to document progress, validate milestones, and maintain an accurate digital record.
Upload a point cloud to the Point Cloud viewer
Step 1: Navigate to Vault's Applications tab, located in the bottom left hand side of the screen. From here, select Add Application.
Step 2: Name your Point Cloud Viewer, then select the Point Cloud application. Click Add Application.
Step 3: Fill in the details as prompted. Use the following guidance:
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Application Type: Leave this as Point Cloud. Other applications can be selected here, but for a Point Cloud Viewer, Point Cloud is the correct choice.
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Application Name: You can edit your Point Cloud Viewer’s name here. This can also be changed after publishing if needed.
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Show on Map: This option allows you to access the Point Cloud from the Home View map as well as the Application View.
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If you select Specify a Location, you can either choose a location directly on the map (scroll to find the desired spot) or enter latitude and longitude coordinates manually.
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Point Cloud File (URL or Select from File Manager): It is recommended to select your file from the File Manager. Navigate to your Point Cloud file and select it.
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Colour Type: For full detail, it is recommended to select RGB.
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Recap File Key: This is optional and not required.
Once all fields are filled out, click Create
Step 4: Once created, navigate to the new point cloud viewer application on the left hand side to view upload status.
How to use it
Access Point Cloud Tools
All Point Cloud viewing tools and functions are accessible from the left-hand tab. Use the hamburger menu icon on the right side of the tab to expand or collapse the panel.
Feature List:
Change Number of Point Clouds
To enhance point cloud clarity, use the Point Budget slider to adjust the number of points displayed. Increasing the budget renders more points for higher detail, while decreasing it reduces point density for performance.
Zoom in and out of Model
There are three ways to zoom in and out of the Point Cloud model: adjust the Field of View slider, use pinch gestures on a trackpad, or scroll with a mouse wheel.
Customise Background
To customise the background, click the options button under the Background section and select your preferred settings.
Change Point Cloud Quality
To adjust Point Cloud quality, use the buttons under the Splat Quality section to select either Standard or High quality.
Change Node Size
Use the Minimum Node Size slider below the Splat Quality section to adjust the size of the Point Cloud nodes.
Point Cloud Tools
Measure Distance, Areas and Volumes
To measure areas within a Point Cloud, click the options button under the Measurement section. Different measurement methods are demonstrated in the videos below. To clear all active measurements, click the red Cross icon.
Angle Measurement
Distance, Height and Area Measurement
Height Profile and Measurement Tools
Isolate Sections
To create section boxes within your Point Cloud, use the clipping tools under the Clipping section. To remove all active clipping, click the red Cross icon.
Volume Clipping
Polygon Clipping
Change Navigation Style
Under the Navigation section, select from various navigational styles to explore your Point Cloud. In the Camera Projection section, you can switch between Perspective and Orthographic views.
Change Navigation Movement Speed
Within the Navigation section, use the Speed slider to adjust movement speed when navigating through Point Clouds.