vSite Scan: Best Practices for Scanning

Following the best practices for scanning will ensure the maximum quality and accuracy of your scans. Not following the best practices can result in issues such as inaccuracies and deviations.

Scanning Best Practices

The following are general best practices to use when performing scans in vSite Scan.

GNSS/RTK Devices

Using a supported GNSS Device with RTK connection will ensure a high accuracy when scanning. Not using GNSS or RTK correction services will result in reduced accuracy.

Good Lighting

While LiDAR devices may be capable of operating in low light, scanning in well-lit areas provides the best texture quality and object clarity.

Proper Starting Point

Starting a scan on a flat, easily recognizable surface such as flat ground, a floor, or a wall. This helps to create an accurate anchor for the scan to ensure high levels of accuracy

Hover Over Key Objects

Hovering over key objects for several seconds will help ensure the geometry of the object is accurate.

Avoid Reflective or Transparent Surfaces

LiDAR struggles to recognize/identify reflective and transparent surfaces, and scanning them may result in inaccuracies and deviations. Some examples of surfaces to avoid are as follows:

  • Glass
  • Shiny Metals
  • Water

Scan From Multiple Angles

Complex or detailed shapes and objects should be scanned from multiple angles to capture the most accurate data possible.

Minimize Occlusions

Scanning objects such as vehicles, people, or other obstructions can block the view of objects or areas in a scan. Scanning areas with minimal obstructions is ideal for maximum visual clarity.

Ignore Scan Edges

Scans are most accurate between 1 and 3 meters from the user. The outer edges of scans captures from up to 5 meters away are less accurate and can be ignored. Capture important areas and objects from within 3 meters to ensure proper accuracy.

Use Real-Time Scan Progress

When scanning, the areas that have not been scanned will appear red in colour. Making sure that key areas and objects are no longer red will confirm that the area or object was properly scanned.

Scanning Tips

The following tips and tricks will help ensure the highest possible quality of your scans.

  • Move slowly and steadily while scanning
  • Keep a consistent distance of 1-3 meters from the area or object being scanned
  • Maintain a 20°-45° angle to the area being scanned
  • Produce linear scans - don't spin in place
  • Begin the scan with a short and straight walk to ensure proper alignment and geolocation
  • Avoid double scanning - scanning the same area twice can cause inconsistencies with overlapping visuals and data
  • Scan over top of the area and not beside it for the most accurate results

 

Have Questions? Feel free to Submit A Request to speak with a member of the vGIS Support Team.

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