Colourised 3D Point Cloud of Westminster Cathedral with the RIEGL VZ-600i

Scantech International recently completed a colourised 3D point cloud survey of Westminster Cathedral, commissioned to support the design of a new light show within the historic building. The survey, carried out under challenging time constraints and in a highly sensitive environment, demonstrates the versatility and performance of the RIEGL VZ-600i.

Why Scantech International

With over 23 years of experience in 3D laser scanning, Scantech International was one of the first companies in the UK to own and operate a laser scanner. Over two decades later, the team continues to push innovation in the field of point cloud surveys, delivering accurate and detailed digital models for railways, heritage sites, and civil infrastructure.

For more about Scantech International, visit scantech-international.com.

Choosing the Right Technology

For this prestigious project, Scantech deployed the RIEGL VZ-600i terrestrial laser scanner. The scanner’s integration with the Sony A7R IV camera was a decisive factor, as it provided superior colour capture. Producing a high-quality colourised point cloud was critical to the client, and the VZ-600i delivered exceptional results.

Speed was also a vital requirement. Because the survey had to be completed between church services, the VZ-600i’s ability to capture high-quality data quickly and efficiently was crucial. Its capability to scan and record imagery simultaneously - with fast laser scanning of up to 2.2MHz PRR not restricted by extended image acquisition times - meant the work could be completed without disruption.

In addition, the scanner’s on-board automatic registration removed the need for physical survey targets. This was particularly important in such an iconic and protected building, where minimising disruption and avoiding intrusive equipment was a priority.

Results

The outcome was a crisp, accurate, and fully colourised 3D point cloud of Westminster Cathedral. The entire survey was completed in one day on site, with the data processed, registered, and cleaned within 48 hours. A very useful feature was the dynamic objects filtering. As this is done within the RIEGL software, it boosts on-site workflow, negating the requirement to double scan each position.

The final dataset was issued promptly to the client, enabling them to progress with their light show design with confidence in the accuracy and quality of the underlying model.

Conclusion

This project highlights how the combination of Scantech International’s experience and the capabilities of the RIEGL VZ-600i can deliver outstanding results under tight deadlines and in sensitive environments. The ability to provide high-quality, colourised point clouds quickly and without intrusive target placement has set a new benchmark for heritage and architectural surveys.