Accurate surveys are essential for an architectural project and subsequent construction to run as smoothly as possible. They provide detailed information on the physical characteristics of a site, existing structures, environmental conditions and possible obstacles, which will serve as prerequisites for the design stage, ensuring that all relevant factors are considered before construction begins. This information is vital for making informed decisions that harmonize with the environment and comply with local zoning regulations, building codes and environmental standards. Traditionally, these surveys have relied on manual measurements with tape measures, basic photographs, and, more recently, expensive laser scanning. All of these are susceptible to human error and can be extremely time-consuming, especially in large or complex areas. Laser scanning, despite being more accurate and comprehensive, involves expensive equipment and specialized technicians, increasing project costs and often extending the time needed to carry out the survey.
These traditional methods of surveying sites, while effective, face certain challenges, including cost and time constraints, as comprehensive and complex surveys can be expensive, and budget limitations may restrict this. Another issue is the ability to access all areas of a site, as there are often places that are difficult or dangerous to reach. Data accuracy can also be compromised by reliance on outdated or incomplete survey data, leading to inaccuracies in design and planning that require additional site visits and adjustments. Furthermore, ensuring that survey teams are adequately trained in the use of advanced technologies is essential for accurate data collection and analysis. In other words, it is vital that all parties involved are "speaking the same language" and that all elements fit into the same formats.
With the advent of new technologies, revolutionary approaches have emerged. Leveraging 360-degree video technology, CupixVista offers a range of benefits that streamline these workflows, reduce costs, and improve collaboration. Architects can easily capture detailed site data simply by walking through the site with a 360-degree camera, eliminating the need for bulky equipment or specialized surveyors. Subsequently, this 360-degree video is transformed into a highly detailed 3D model, presenting a textured colored mesh, panoramic views, and a virtual tour of the site. This dollhouse, created with Cupix's proprietary CPC files, is fully measurable, allowing for precise calculations of distances, areas, volumes, and elevations. Collaboration is enhanced through sharing the 3D model with project stakeholders via VistaPoint, a free browser-based viewer, and exporting data as a point cloud or textured colored mesh for integration into architectural design software.
To start using CupixVista, you will need a compatible 360° camera, such as the Insta360 ONE X2, Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch, Insta360 X3, Insta360 X4, Insta360 Sphere (drone only), or Ricoh Theta X. After on-site recording, the video must be uploaded to the CupixVista system, which processes the footage into a detailed 3D point cloud and textured mesh, a process that can take up to four hours. This is an extremely fast process, as a simple 20-minute walk can cover up to 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) or an area of 6,000 m² (60,000 ft²).
No expensive equipment or specialized knowledge is required to create realistic 3D maps of large spaces. Even without previous experience, architects, engineers, surveyors and amateurs can easily generate detailed 3D representations through affordable and easy-to-use 360° cameras, eliminating the need for expensive laser scanning equipment and specialized training. This method democratizes access to advanced surveying techniques, making it accessible to a wider range of users and enabling efficient and accurate site documentation anywhere.
As technology continues to advance, tools like CupixVista will become increasingly critical for informed decision-making and sustainable development in architecture and construction. By adopting this innovative technology, professionals can stay at the forefront of the industry, ensuring that their projects are visually appealing, functional, safe, compliant, and efficient. This approach offers significant advantages over traditional methods, including cost savings, time efficiency, enhanced collaboration, and seamless integration into design workflows, allowing designers to focus more on developing comfortable and inspiring spaces for users.
For more information, visit the CupixVista website or get in touch directly with kevin.seong@cupix.com.
