Design intent value into Scan to BIM projects

The Scan to BIM provides a starting point for other teams including design teams, contractors, or building owners. No matter what type of project is, Scan to BIM can help to make everything easier. So adding values to Scan to BIM projects is necessary, especially design intent value.


Why and how can you convey design intent value to Scan to BIM process?

Why design intent value is vital to Scan to BIM

Scan to BIM can be used for a series of use-cases and reasons. Building owners are fond of as-built models for facility management. Architects and engineers use a 3D BIM model to iterate their design or understand existing conditions before revolution and retrofit projects.


Conveying the design intent value to Scan to BIM means that we aim to create as-built models that deepen valuable “information” and sufficient “function” to benefit the next project stages. A functional and informative model can help stakeholders process their tasks easily and efficiently.

How to convey design intent value to Scan to BIM

1. Add functionality to 3D BIM models

Several people think that the as-built models just should focus on reflecting exactly existing building conditions. However, we realize that adding the functionality to BIM models is really necessary. This is also one of the important parts that will benefit your BIM project now and many years to come. The functionality of 3D BIM models presents that all models created must meet the exact building components, loadbearing structures.

2. Deepen valuable information

Quality of information matters in 3D BIM models. The architects or engineers want a parametric model that was flexible enough to respond to on-going design challenges.


In order to create highly detailed models, you must include a wide variety of information:


  • Contain a size parameter within elements to identify the size through the property browser or a schedule;

  • Include details of the BIM elements.

  • Assign the right materials of the elements;

  • Record correct geometry and location in relation to the point cloud data;

  • Use exactly Revit family categories, naming conventions, and data storage