Two-dimensional (2D) drawings are a familiar and traditional deliverable used in the A/E/C/O industry. A 2D drawing is a standard plan, elevation or section that is a simplified representation of the features most important to your project. These drawings have historically improved the design and construction process. A similar deliverable known as an orthographic projection is Epic Scan’s evolution of a 2D drawing. Orthographic projections are scaled images that can easily be imported into any design program and traced to create a standard 2D drawing.
METHOD
Professionals conduct 3D laser scanning of your project to capture 3D data (measurements and images), which are then used to create an orthographic projection. This process allows Epic Scan or another CAD team to create a 2D drawing for you by tracing the orthographic projection to the level of detail your project requires. Having a scanning company create your drawings is incredibly valuable as they provide detailed documentation of the scope of work without countless hand measurements. Additionally, 3D laser scanning generates materials that simplify the design and construction process, such as a 3D animation of your project and virtual site access (VSA) that can be shared with the entire design and construction team.
VALUE
Two-dimensional drawings are generated from point clouds—or orthographic projections containing the precise level of detail for the area of interest. This 2D documentation enables you to make informed decisions based on actual site conditions and resolve conflicts during design, resulting in less rework during construction.
APPLICATION
These drawings assist with all aspects of the design and construction process. A few ways A/E/C/Os use 2D drawings and orthographic projects include:
- Developing accurate floor plans and elevations of the area of interest
- Generating estimates, planning and promoting
- Producing as-built drawings
- Incorporating into (printed) submittals
“Laser scanning provides the 2D deliverables that you know and helps you transition to the 3D deliverables of tomorrow.”
—Chet Roan, Epic Scan
Two-dimensional drawings are a valuable and reliable reference for design and construction. To enhance your projects, try integrating a 3D replication of your project—like point cloud or BIM—into your design process. Take a look at our posts on point clouds and BIM (building information model) as well as our Deliverables page for more information on 3D documentation.
Please feel free to call us at 415.524.0516 or email project@epicscan.com to learn more about how 2D and 3D documentation can help you save time and money on your projects.