Video: How I use Revit and my Matterport Pro Camera to Generate Architectural Drawings | Video courtesy of Hazim Gaber (HSM) YouTube Channel | 23 December 2024

Video: How I use Revit + Matterport Pro Camera to Generate Architectural Drawings

Hi All,

From the Hazim Gaber (RSM) YouTube Channel:

Using Revit and a Matterport Pro Camera to generate architectural drawings is an efficient way to combine 3D scanning technology with powerful BIM software for accurate and comprehensive building plans. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can achieve this:

1. Capture the Space with the Matterport Pro Camera

Set Up and Scan the Site:

Position your Matterport Pro Camera in a central location within the space you want to scan.
Use the Matterport Capture app to control the camera and initiate the scan.
Move the camera incrementally through the space, capturing 360° scans. Ensure there’s overlap between scans for seamless stitching.

Process the Scans:

Upload the captured data to Matterport’s cloud platform. The software processes the data and creates a 3D model (digital twin) of the space.

Export the Data:

Download the Matterport scan files in XYZ, OBJ, or E57 formats. Matterport also provides the ability to export a 2D floor plan (in PNG or PDF formats), but for use in Revit, the 3D scan data is essential.
2. Import the Matterport Scan into Revit

Prepare the File:

If needed, use software like Autodesk Recap to clean up and convert the Matterport scan file into a compatible format for Revit.

Link the Point Cloud:

Open your Revit project.

Go to Insert Point Cloud and select your processed Matterport file (usually in RCP or RCS format).
Position the point cloud within the Revit model space.

Align the Model:

Adjust the point cloud to ensure proper alignment with Revit’s project base point and elevation levels.
3. Generate Architectural Drawings in Revit

Trace Walls, Floors, and Ceilings:

Use the point cloud as a reference to manually trace architectural features like walls, floors, and ceilings using Revit’s modeling tools.
Revit’s Snap to Point Cloud feature allows you to quickly create accurate geometry.
Create Openings and Windows:

Identify openings such as doors and windows in the point cloud and place corresponding Revit families in the model.

Model Structural and Mechanical Elements:

Use the point cloud to trace structural elements (columns, beams) and mechanical components if necessary.
Annotate and Dimension:

Add annotations, dimensions, and details to create 2D architectural drawings from the 3D Revit model.

4. Refine the Model for Precision

Validate Dimensions:

Compare the model dimensions with the original site measurements for accuracy.

Use laser measurements (if available) to validate critical dimensions.
Apply Materials and Finishes:

Assign materials and finishes to elements in the model for visualization and documentation purposes.
Generate 2D Views:

Create floor plans, elevations, sections, and detail drawings directly from the Revit model.

5. Export Final Deliverables
Architectural Drawings:

Export 2D views as DWG or PDF files for sharing with stakeholders.
BIM Model:

Share the 3D Revit model with other disciplines for coordination.
Presentations:

Use Revit’s rendering tools or export to visualization software for client presentations.
Benefits of Using Matterport and Revit Together

Accuracy: Matterport’s 3D scanning ensures precise spatial data for modeling.
Efficiency: Reduces time spent measuring and drafting from scratch.
Seamless Integration: Revit’s point cloud tools make it easy to convert scans into BIM-ready models.
Collaboration: The digital twin serves as a reliable reference for stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
By combining the real-world accuracy of Matterport with the modeling power of Revit, you can streamline workflows, reduce errors, and deliver high-quality architectural drawings efficiently.

Source: Hazim Gaber (HSM) YouTube Channel

Your thoughts?

Happy holidays,

Dan