A 1970s building in Crans-Montana: survey for renovation
As part of a major renovation project for a residential building built in the 70saarchitects based in Crans-Montana commissioned us to carry out a complete 3D survey of the building.
Our mission consisted of :
- scan all interior levels (basements, stairwells, upper floors, attics),
- survey the exterior facades and immediate surroundings,
- generate a high-density point cloud compatible with Archicad.
The aim: to provide reliable geometric basis to enable the customer to carry out modelling directly in Archicadby integrating the constraints of an existing building with an irregular geometry.
This type of survey is particularly valuable for old buildings with irregularities in structure, height or alignment. Thanks to our 3D laser scanner technologyWe can detect and document these discrepancies, so that architects don't get any nasty surprises during the construction phase. The data obtained is calibrated to correspond exactly to the reality on the groundThis makes it easier to make technical and aesthetic choices. It also helps to optimise costs and reduce deadlines by minimising unforeseen adjustments during the works.
In the case of buildings dating from the 1970s in Crans-Montana, there are frequent vertical discrepancies, differences in levels and irregularities in the facades. Our 3D surveys can capture these variations, which are invisible to traditional methods, and provide clear documentation of them. This enables architects to anticipate any necessary adjustments at the design stage, avoiding cost overruns during construction. This approach also makes it possible to preserve the integrity of the existing building, while guaranteeing the feasibility of future interventions. In this way, our surveys become a genuine basis of confidence for every stage of the project.
Supporting architects: integrating point clouds into your BIM
At 3D Scan BatWe don't just deliver an .e57 file or a raw scatter plot. We offer a real support for architects wishing to integrate scanned data into their BIM process.
Our team can help you :
- understanding and using a point cloud in Archicad or Revit,
- cleaning up and structuring data (files broken down, slimmed down, organised by level),
- save time on the initial modelling phases, even without any previous experience of 3D scanning.
We regularly work alongsidearchitects of Crans-Montanaof Sierre, Sion and the whole of the Valais, whether it's for second homesand residential buildingsand old chalets or public buildings.
Preparing and structuring data for optimum use
Delivering a raw point cloud is not always enough to get a BIM project off to a good start. That's why we take the time to prepare and structuring data so that they can be used directly. This involves precise division into levels, optimisation of file size and organisation of layers. This method makes it easier to navigate the model and speeds up modelling in Archicad or Revit. This means our customers can concentrate on design and creativity, without wasting time on time-consuming technical operations.
At the same time, we take care to adapt the level of detail of our deliverables to the specific needs of the project. For a major renovation, we produce a exhaustive point cloudfor all volumes and structural constraints. For simpler projects, we optimise the files so that they remain light and quick to handle. This flexibility guarantees fluid use in both Archicad and Revit, even on modest hardware configurations. Thanks to this upstream work, architects can concentrate on the design and the dialogue with their clients rather than on technical adjustments.
Revit or Archicad: two languages, one requirement
Our deliverables are optimised for the two main BIM software packages used in Switzerland :
- Archicad We can supply an ARCHICAD model (.PLA, .PLN), or a cloud of points calibrated to scale, positioned by levels, ready to be modelled.
- Revit Our BIM models can also be delivered in .RVT or .IFC format, with classified elements, families and adapted views.
This dual compatibility is a major asset for architects and design offices in the Valais, who can work freely with their favourite tools. Our deliverables are prepared in such a way as to limit file size while retaining as much detail as possible, making it easier to work with machines of varying performance. We also ensure perfect consistency between levels, axes and altimetric references, so that your models are immediately usable and easy to work with. compliant with current BIM standards.
Are you using Archicad for your projects, but don't know how to use a point cloud? We can help you get started with peace of mind, by delivering files tailored to your working method.
Integration of readings into your CECB and Minergie processes
In Crans-Montana, many projects today include a upgrading to energy standards (CECB, Minergie). Our 3D surveys provide a reliable basis for these processes, accurately documenting the existing situation and facilitating thermal calculations and insulation simulations. Thanks to accurate geometry, engineers and architects can identify critical areas, plan interventions and justify their choices to the authorities. Our data can be integrated directly into the BIM software used for energy studies, simplifying coordination between architects, technical offices and building owners.
Virtual visits for remote control
In addition to the point cloud, we offer interactive virtual tours which let you explore the building in 360°, directly from a browser. This tool is particularly useful for remote teams or architects wishing to check a detail without visiting the site. Each observation point is linked to the 3D survey data, ensuring a perfect match between the visit and the model. This solution facilitates exchanges with customers, inspection offices or tradesmen, and reduces the need to travel, optimising project time and costs.
Smooth collaboration with teams and partners
The 3D surveys carried out in Crans-Montana are not just for architects. They are becoming a collaborative tool for all those involved in the project: engineers, craftsmen, developers and property managers. Thanks to point clouds and Atis-Cloud virtual toursThis means that everyone involved can consult the data, take measurements or make comments directly online. This approach reduces travel, minimises misunderstandings and speeds up decision-making. By centralising information, we help teams to work more efficiently and transparently, in a spirit of total coordination around a common, reliable base.
Example delivered: plans from the model
In the case of Crans-Montana, the customer wanted to remain in control of your modelling. We have therefore only supplied :
- the point cloud in .e57 format,
- a virtual visit Atis-Cloud to facilitate remote checks,
- a geo-referenced site plan with altimetry.
Thanks to this, the architects were able to model their building on a scale of 1:100 in Archicad, and extract the plans, façades and sections required for their preliminary design.
The architects of Crans-Montana and Valais regions benefit from precise documentation that simplifies every stage: from design to approval by the authorities, right through to construction on site. Our 3D surveys are just as suitable for residential buildings as they are for chalets, hotels and public buildings. By integrating our data into Archicad or Revit, you gain in reliability and efficiency. Whether you're looking to renovate an existing building or transform a complex structure, we can provide you with solutions tailored to your workflow, while guaranteeing a high level of accuracy and responsiveness.
Whether you're an experienced architect or new to working with a point cloud, we can adapt our deliverables to suit your methods. Our 3D surveys in Crans-Montana and throughout the Valais enable you to design projects that are realistic, precise and optimised. We make it a point of honour to provide structured data that can be used immediately, so that your design phases run more smoothly and are better controlled. By working with 3D Scan Bat, you are choosing a a reliable partner for your BIM projectsfrom the initial survey to integration into your work software.
