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     Introduction
        Mobile 3D scanning is here to stay.
        This new technology already has many advantages over traditional surveying methods.
        Although still not perfect, if used correctly it will make your job easier and save you a lot of
        valuable time.

​                     About this guide
 This manual will help you quickly learn how to use an iPad or an iPhone as a 3D scanner to
 capture a property accurately, regardless of its size. We’ll show you how to prepare, explain the
 scanning process step by step, and guide you through the options for processing your scan
 and sending it for drafting and reporting work

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This guide was created by Mediatask, a drafting and reporting company that specializes in utilizing cutting-edge reality capture technology combined with the expertise and talent of our drafting engineers. The content is based on numerous field tests and feedback from our clients, whom we have assisted in adopting 3D scanning technology. 
Mediatask's offering includes floor plans, CAD & BIM models, area measurement reports (e.g. NEN2580, ANSI Z765, BOMA), and more. For more information visit us at mediatask.co.

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DotProduct develops high-performance, easy-to-use solutions for capturing 3D spatial data for documentation of the built and existing world. Our technology is designed for mobile professionals who need high-quality 3D data, instantly. Our Dot3D software delivers accurate, mobile 3D scanning capabilities on iOS, Windows, and Android devices, turning your phones and tablets into versatile professional-grade 3D-capture and processing solutions.

Learn more about DotProduct and Dot3D at dotproduct3d.com.

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​Mastering Mobile 3D Scanning
Contents of this guide:
Introduction..................................................................................................................................................2
About this guide...........................................................................................................................................2
Contents of this guide:................................................................................................................................3
Let’s get started!.........................................................................................................................................3
Prep like a Pro............................................................................................................................................. 4             Hardware.................................................................................................................................................... 4               Tags............................................................................................................................................................ 5
 Other tools................................................................................................................................................. 5             Software......................................................................................................................................................6 Checklist.......................................................................................................................................................6
Scanning Step-by-step............................................................................................................................... 7
   1. Plan and prepare your route............................................................................................................... 7
   2. Place tags.............................................................................................................................................8
   3. Choose a starting point...................................................................................................................... 9
   4. Scan the floor room by room........................................................................................................... 10
   5. Missed a spot? Append.....................................................................................................................10
Best practice for the highest accuracy....................................................................................................11
  Fundamental scanning tips recap......................................................................................................... 14
Adding photos and annotations to the scan.......................................................................................... 15
  Manual photo collection........................................................................................................................ 15
  Automatic photo collection....................................................................................................................15
Adding dimensions and optimizing the scan..........................................................................................16
Review your scan.......................................................................................................................................18
Saving and exporting................................................................................................................................ 19
Uploading to Mediatask.............................................................................................................................19
Downstream Workflows.............................................................................................................................20 Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................................... 21
Lets get started!        
​3  

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​Mastering Mobile 3D Scanning
Prep like a Pro

Hardware
You'll need an iPad or iPhone with a LiDAR sensor. If you're unsure if your device has it, look for a 5mm black circle near the rear cameras or check your specs.

​Here's a list of compatible devices:
       ● All iPad Pro 4th-generation (2020) and newer
       ● All iPhone Pro or Pro Max models, generation 12 or newer
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​We recommend using an iPad because of the sturdier grip, bigger screen, and better heat dissipation (scanning is hard work for your device!), but you’ll also be able to make a perfect capture with an iPhone. A gimbal is a good option when scanning with a phone.

A heavy-duty case is a good idea:
You will be walking with your device and moving it around a lot so it's important to have it well-protected with a robust case with a good grip. A „pro” case will also make a good impression on the client or homeowner. 
              One caveat 
​Make sure your case doesn’t trap the heat dissipated from the device. If you notice your device is getting too warm it is better to take the case off. Overheating can slow down performance but also lead to instability and inaccuracy due to the deformation of the optical elements. 

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​Mastering Mobile 3D Scanning
Tags
To get the most precise results we cannot rely on the device’s sensors alone. After all, it's smart but it's only a phone!
Dot3D recognizes AprilTag targets. For a quick start, you can download and print them on a regular printer and use painter’s tape to safely attach them to a wall. Make sure not to occlude the black printed area with the tape. 
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A sturdier solution: Mediatask provides a starter kit containing 28 targets printed on a lightweight gator board with blue-tack on the backside for easy mounting on and off the wall. The surface is laminated with a matte finish for durability and good detection at all viewing angles. 
In the “place tags” section we’ll show you how to properly set up these tags, use your laser measure to grab reference dimensions between them, and input them into the app. 

Other Tools
​A laser measure tool will be essential for inputting additional known dimensions, so take your Disto with you. Versions with the end piece are most recommended as they will allow you to make even more precise measurements between the centers of the tags even at an angle. 
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It is handy to have a tape measure, especially when the only option is to measure between tags placed on the floor.

​5

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Thank you to our friends at Mediatask for putting together this excellent guide.
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83 Morse St., #6Y
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  • Buy Now
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    • Custom Product Design
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