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How Elios 3 is Transforming Scan to BIM in Confined and Complex Spaces

How Elios 3 is Transforming Scan to BIM in Confined and Complex Spaces

Last updated on

7th April

In the world of infrastructure and industrial inspection, Building Information Modelling (BIM) has become a standard. But capturing the data to feed these models—especially in hazardous or hard-to-reach areas—remains a challenge.

That’s where Flyability’s Elios 3 steps in.

With its collision-tolerant design and industry-leading LiDAR payload, the Elios 3 is enabling faster, safer, and more efficient data capture for Scan to BIM workflows, especially in environments where traditional tools fall short.

Traditional Methods vs Elios 3

Conventional tools like Terrestrial Laser Scanners (TLS) or Total Stations require safe, stable access and line-of-sight for multiple setups. In confined or cluttered areas, this is often impractical or even impossible—leading to patchy data and extended downtime.

In contrast, the Elios 3’s drone-mounted Surveying Payload brings:

✅ Centimetre-level accuracy (0.1% drift)

✅ Live 3D mapping and high-res 4K visual data

✅ Rapid capture—up to 10x faster than terrestrial scanning

✅ Full coverage, even in GPS-denied or obstructed environments

✅ Remote operation that keeps people out of hazardous areas

What Level of Detail (LOD) Can It Achieve?

Thanks to the powerful Ouster OS0-128 LiDAR sensor and FARO Connect SLAM algorithm, the Elios 3 comfortably achieves:

🔹 LOD 200 – Ideal for schematic design, layout simulations, and early-stage architectural planning

🔹 LOD 300 (with the right environment and operator) – Capturing specific shapes, spatial relationships, and dimensions

It’s not a replacement for TLS in ultra-precision applications—but it’s revolutionising how and where BIM-ready data can be collected.

The Scan to BIM Workflow (Simplified)

The workflow using Elios 3 is refreshingly straightforward:

Fly through the target area capturing LiDAR and video data
Process the flight logs in Flyability’s Inspector and FARO Connect
Export clean point clouds into .LAS or .E57 format
Model in BIM tools like Autodesk Revit for use in planning, construction, or documentation

No scaffolding. No rope access. No line-of-sight limitations.

Real-World Applications

The Elios 3 is already being used to power BIM models for:

🔸 Industrial plants and warehouses 🔸 Bridges and roof structures 🔸 Vertical shafts, tunnels, and pipes 🔸 Emergency response sites and confined infrastructure

If it’s hard to reach, Elios 3 can likely map it—safely and effectively.

Final Thoughts

With over 70% of construction companies now using BIM in some capacity, tools that simplify and accelerate data capture are vital.

The Elios 3 isn’t just another inspection drone. It’s an enabler for accurate, up-to-date BIM models in places previously off-limits to surveyors.

If you’re involved in infrastructure design, plant maintenance, or asset management and you rely on reliable BIM data—this is one piece of tech worth looking into.

Want to see how Elios 3 fits into your BIM workflow? Reach out to the team at Coptrz .