Trimble RTS & Point Cloud Scanning

Build with Certainty

We provide a free consultation and estimate

  • Investment | $175 per hour

  • Areas of service | Charlottesville and surrounding areas

High Precision Layouts

Efficient Project Outcomes

 

RTS

Supports general contractors and MEP contractors, that need high precision layouts. RTS technology enables accurate positioning, minimized rework, and improved project efficiency, ensuring precise execution in complex construction environments.

Our Process

Project Scope & Planning

  • We begin with a consultation to understand layout requirements.

  • Import client’s layout points from their model.

Precision Layout Execution

  • We set up the RTS by using control points provided by the general contractor or surveyor.

  • Our team shoots and marks layout points.

 

Point Cloud Scanning

Supports general contractors and MEP contractors who need high-precision site data. Using advanced 3D laser scanning technology, Point-Cloud delivers accurate site documentation, enhancing coordination, and streamlining workflows. Our scans can be imported into your Revit or Navisworks.

Our Process

Consultation

  • Our Point-Cloud Technician discusses project goals, site conditions, and scanning requirements with the team.

3D Scanning & Site Preparation

  • The Point Cloud Scanner is deployed at strategic locations to capture high-resolution 3D data.

  • Millions of precise measurements per second are recorded, ensuring a highly accurate representation of site conditions.

Data Processing & Digital Model Generation

  • A comprehensive 3D image of the site and point clouds are created which can be imported into your model.

Final Handoff & Integration

  • The completed point cloud model is handed off to the client for BIM/CAD integration.

 
 

Sports Complex for Athletes

PROJECT | MCCUE CENTER

  • The project team encountered unforeseen field conditions and existing elements in the demolished interior shell that had not been captured in the current BIM model. To ensure new conduit pathways could be routed effectively and coordinated with other trades, up-to-date field data was essential. Precision was also critical for laying out anchors to support prefabbed conduit racks, helping streamline installation and reduce the risk of clashes or delays.

  • Design Electric used two technologies to address these challenges:

    Point Cloud Scanner

    Performed approximately 60 scans to capture actual site conditions. The scans revealed discrepancies in structure and uncovered existing conduits not represented in the model. This allowed the BIM team to update the model and route new conduits accordingly.

    RTS (Robotic Total Station)

    Used to accurately lay out anchors for prefabbed conduit racks, ensuring precise placement prior to installation and keeping the electrical team ahead of schedule.

  • Applications

    • Document existing field conditions to supplement and enhance the BIM model

    • Provide additional detail on infrastructure not previously captured (e.g., conduit and structural elements)

    • Layout anchors for conduit rack installation with precision

    Scan Quantity

    • Approximately 60

  • Improved BIM Accuracy

    • Identified discrepancies between model and field conditions

    • Prevented conduit clashes and rework through updated modeling

    Time & Labor Efficiency

    • Faster installation of prefabbed conduit racks

    • Crew remained ahead of other trades due to accurate pre-layout with RTS

    Risk Mitigation

    • Reduced likelihood of delays from in-field discovery of issues

    • Enhanced coordination across trades with precise data

 
 

Energy Plant to Power Medical Buildings

PROJECT | FONTAINE CEP

  • The Fontaine CEP project required highly accurate conduit layouts to avoid clashes with plumbing and other trades, especially in the densely packed ground floor overhead areas. Traditional layout methods would have made it extremely difficult and time-consuming to install hundreds of anchors and sleeves prior to slab pours with the precision needed. Any misalignment could result in significant rework and schedule delays.

  • Design Electric utilized the Robotic Total Station (RTS) technology to precisely lay out:

    • Overhead conduit rack anchors

    • Floor sleeves prior to concrete pours

    • Trench lines for the underground conduit duct bank

    By aligning RTS layout points with the BIM model, our team ensured every support rod, anchor, and duct path was in the correct location—before concrete was poured— eliminating guesswork and reducing field errors.

    • Layout of ~450 anchors for prefabbed conduit racks

    • Layout of 66 floor sleeves

    • Duct bank trench layout for underground conduit

  • Precision Installation

    • Anchors and sleeves installed exactly where needed prior to concrete pour, improving alignment with the model

    Improved Efficiency

    • Prefabbed racks installed faster due to precise anchor placement

    • Minimal rework or adjustments required in the field

    Time & Material Savings

    • Reduced labor time thanks to pre-planned layouts

    • Avoided delays and material waste from misalignment or field corrections

    Smooth Workflow

    • Successful coordination with other trades in tight overhead spaces

 
 

Primary Care Switchgear and Generator

PROJECT | SENTARA

  • For the Primary Care Switchgear and Generator upgrade, there were tight spatial constraints in the electrical and generator rooms, as well as in the entryway. Accurate field dimensions were critical to ensure the new equipment could be brought in and installed efficiently. Without detailed as-built data, the BIM team could not confidently plan conduit routing or verify clearance for equipment delivery.

  • Design Electric used the Point Cloud Scanner to scan key areas of the site, including the electrical room, generator room, and staircase entryway. The scan data was used to create an accurate digital model, allowing the BIM department to:

    • Develop conduit pathways for the new switchgear

    • Take exact measurements of the entry path to plan for equipment delivery and rigging

  • 17 Total Scans Including

    • Electrical Room

    • Generator Room

    • Staircase Entryway

  • Accurate As-Built Model

    • Enabled precise conduit routing design for switchgear installation

    • Improved Planning & Logistics

    • Measurements from scans provided clear entryway dimensions for equipment delivery planning

    Risk Reduction

    • Minimized chances of layout conflicts and installation delays

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