Manual Virtusurv 18.0 en

VirtuSurv
Elegant interaction with laser scan data

VirtuSurv 18.0
The information and guidance in this manual is currently the most up to date available.
FARO Technologies, Inc. assumes no liability whatsoever for the use of this software,
infringement of patent rights or rights of any third party that result from the use of this software.
FARO Technologies, Inc. reserves the right to make changes to this software, in order to bring
about technical improvements in the software, at any time and without any prior notice.
No part of this documentation may at any time or in any form whatsoever be reproduced
(printed, copied or the like), or edited, reproduced or distributed in any electronic system or
manner without the express prior written consent of FARO Technologies, Inc..
Release: April 2017
Contact
FARO Technologies, Inc.
www.faro.com
Support worldwide +49 715 097 97 400
support.emea@faro.com
Support Americas (800)-259-4014
3DSupportUSA@faro.com
Trademarks
AutoCAD®, AutoCAD® LT and Revit® are registered trademarks of Autodesk Inc.
BricscadTM is a registered trademark of Menhirs NV.
A few Words concerning this Manual
Dear VirtuSurv users,

We would like to thank you for the trust you put in us and wish you lots of success in your daily
work with VirtuSurv.
You can rest assured that we have done our best to develop VirtuSurv into a system that
enables you to much more easily complete your tasks.
In order to guarantee the best introduction into how VirtuSurv works this manual contains
multiple examples that will demonstrate and explain the possibilities available to you when
using this kubit product. At the beginning of this manual you will find instructions on installation
and licence management. You are then introduced to working with VirtuSurv. The user
interface is described in detail and the various functionalities for processing laser scan data
with VirtuSurv are explained. You will get to know how you can customise VirtuSurv for your
particular tasks.
Please don't be afraid when you have questions or problems to take advantage of our support
team. Your questions and advice concerning VirtuSurv are important to us and always
welcome. A system like VirtuSurv depends on the ideas and creativity of its users.
On this note, we are looking forward to working with you and hope you enjoy working with
VirtuSurv.
Contents
1 What does VirtuSurv do? 6
2 Installation of VirtuSurv 8
2.1 System requirements 8
2.2 Installation 8
2.3 Installation of VirtuSurv's AutoCAD plug-in 8
2.4 Installation of VirtuSurv's BricsCAD plug-in 9
2.5 Installing the dongle 10
2.6 First Start up of VirtuSurv 11
2.7 Setting up a Network Licence 13
2.8 Manage CodeMeter licences 17
2.8.1 Check the licence status 17
2.8.2 Release occupied network licence for other users 19
2.8.3 Request an activation file 19
2.8.4 Licence activation / update 20
2.8.5 Verifying the time clock of the dongle 20
3 Working with VirtuSurv 22
3.1 First steps - opening scan data 22
3.2 The user interface 25
3.2.1 The menu bar 25
3.2.2 The tool-bars 26
3.2.3 The Project Explorer 26
3.2.4 The scan map 28
3.2.5 The working window 29
3.2.6 The protocol window 30
3.2.7 The status bar 30
3.2.8 Windows for macros and special commands 30
3.3 Evaluating with VirtuSurv 30
3.3.1 Measurement unit, accuracy, etc 30
3.3.2 Measuring point coordinates 33
3.3.3 Measuring distances 33
3.3.4 Filling in forms, tables, data bases, etc 35
3.3.5 Senden von Messungen an die Zwischenablage 39
3.3.6 Drawing with any CAD system 40
3.3.7 Drawing with SEMA 49
3.3.8 Drawing with AutoCAD (LT) 50
3.3.9 Drawing with BricsCAD 62
3.3.10 Creating a coded field book 63
3.4 Optimised evaluation – customised macros 70
3.4.1 Customise predefined macros 71
3.4.2 Create new Windows macros 74
3.4.3 Create new AutoCAD macros or BricsCAD macros 78
3.4.4 Transfer macro definitions to other computers 83
3.5 Create a new project 84
3.6 Import scan data 85
3.6.1 Remarks on the PTG format 89
3.6.2 Remarks on PTX import 90
3.6.3 Remarks on Topcon import 90
3.7 Exporting point clouds 90
3.7.1 Exporting complete projects 90
3.7.2 Export of scans and parts of scans 92
4 3rd Party Libraries 95
4.1 VXL Library 95
4.2 Qt Framework 96
5 Licence Agreement 97
6| 1 What does VirtuSurv do?
1 What does VirtuSurv do?

VirtuSurv is a standalone Windows application for displaying and the evaluating 3D laser
scanner data from all common scanner manufacturers, with and without the use of CAD.
Thanks to the optimised format even large scan projects are displayed fast and without waiting
time. Different photo-like display modes allow an intuitive orientation within the scan and help
with the analysis of the scanned object.
The project management of VirtuSurv enables the combination of scans of different types in
one project, if they have been referenced in the same system. Among the basic functions are
the measurements of point coordinates and of distances between two points in the scan
project. The distance measurement can be done across the boundaries of single scans.
In addition it is possible to export complete projects, scans or of parts of the displayed data as
point clouds.
Thanks to a direct connection, coordinates and distances can be measured in the scan and
simultaneously transferred into any Windows application. This allows to fill Excel tables, data
bases or forms with information from laser scan data and to send geometric information into
any CAD system.
VirtuSurv provides macros for sending data to Windows (e.g. Excel or Rhinoceros 3D),
AutoCAD (LT) or BricsCAD that speed up the evaluation of laser scanner data and allow a fast
and easy start in working with VirtuSurv and your familiar software. With the help of the editor
the macros may be customised at will. The experienced user may also create his own macros
in order to optimise his evaluation. Once you have defined your macros, you will not have to
switch between VirtuSurv and the target application anymore.
With a special set of commands VirtuSurv supports processing laser scan data in Revit.
With the function for creating a coded field book, VirtuSurv takes on the established role of the
surveyor. It addresses users who have, so far, observed their objects coded with a total station,
in order to automatically generate a finished drawing with the help of the codes when importing
the measurement data into their CAD system. Now these users may also use laser scanner
data in order to create their coded point lists, their field book.
With VirtuSurv drawings may be generated from laser scans fast and easy without having to
load the large and ponderous point clouds into the CAD system.
The software may be used anywhere where measurement data are to be generated from laser
scans, e.g.:
■ As built documentation for the conservation of historical monuments, buildings and archi-
tecture
■ Measurements for window construction, interior fitting, etc.
1 What does VirtuSurv do? |7
■ Survey of technical plants

■ Archaeological excavation documentation
■ Accident and crime scene documentation
■ Conservation of evidence
8| 2 Installation of VirtuSurv
2 Installation of VirtuSurv
The installation of VirtuSurv consists of a number of steps which have to be carried out in
sequence. Administrator rights are required for the installation.
2.1 System requirements

VirtuSurv works on Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1 and 10. We recommend using a computer with a 64
bit operating system, at least 2.5 GHz processor and a minimum of 8 GB RAM.
2.2 Installation
The current setup files of VirtuSurv can be downloaded from the internet site:
setups.faro3dsoftware.com
Please run the setup file by double clicking and following the instructions of the installation
program.
If you want to use the function for sending data and commands to AutoCAD (LT) or to
BricsCAD make sure you read and observe the relevant instructions.
2.3 Installation of VirtuSurv's AutoCAD plug-in

If you are running PointSense for AutoCAD, version 8.0.4.12 and above, you can skip the
following steps. The VirtuSurv AutoCAD plug-in will already be installed and loaded.
Before you can use VirtuSurv's AutoCAD macros, you need to load a small plug- in to
AutoCAD. This is done automatically during the VirtuSurv setup. Enable the “Install FARO Box
to integrate AutoCAD receiver” option in the following dialog. Note, the dialog will only be
displayed if AutoCAD has already been installed. Please ensure that AutoCAD is installed
2 Installation of VirtuSurv |9
before you run the VirtuSurv setup.
If you use more than one version of AutoCAD on your computer, please select the version you
want to use together with VirtuSurv when you are prompted to.
2.4 Installation of VirtuSurv's BricsCAD plug-in

Before you can use VirtuSurv's BricsCAD macros, you need to load a small plug- in to
BricsCAD. This is done automatically during the setup process, if BricsCAD is already installed
on your computer. Please carry out the following steps, if you want to insert the plug-in later:
1. Start BricsCAD. (Version 14 and higher are supported.)

2. Enter the command 'appload' in the command line. The following dialogue box opens:
3. Click on the button [Add...]

4. From the BricsCAD subfolder in VirtuSurv's installation folder (e.g. C:\Program Files\ Vir-
tuSurv vv18.0.2.9930 English\) select the appropriate BricsCAD version folder and open
"KUBITSTKBC.BRX.
The plug-in should now be properly installed and will be present when BricsCAD is started.
2.5 Installing the dongle

The FARO software products are protected against unlawful use by a dongle. This so called
CodeMeter is available as a USB stick, PC card, SD card and ExpressCard.
CodeMeter USB stick CodeMeter mini USB-stick CodeMeter ExpressCard
The driver software for the dongle is automatically installed during the setup.
By the delivery of the software the dongle contains no activated licence file! Please download
your current licence file from the following web page:
license.faro3dsoftware.com
You can find the serial number on your dongle.
2 Installation of VirtuSurv | 11
Now connect the dongle to the appropriate port for the type of dongle being used. Thereafter
the message window "AutoPlay" might be displayed:
Close the window without selecting any option or select "Do not execute any action".
When starting VirtuSurv, the dongle will be automatically recognised and you can immediately
start using all of the commands.
With a perpetual licence the dongle will function without having to do anything else. With a time
limited licence the dongle will need an internet connection, at regular intervals, in order to verify
its internal time clock. If this does not happen within a specified time frame (e.g. no direct
internet access, which will happen regularly when on site) the licence will no longer be
recognised until the time clock has been updated. The update of the verified time is
independent of the imported licence information.
With a time limited licence please ensure before starting work with our software that the
verified time clock of the dongle is up to date. Follow the instructions in section 2.8.5 .
The licence status that is saved on the dongle can be accessed using the Licence Manager in
the menu option "Help".
To manage the licences saved on the dongle or for setting up a network dongle please read the
sections 2.7 and 2.8 .
2.6 First Start up of VirtuSurv

Please, make sure the dongle is inserted in your computer and start VirtuSurv.
If you have a dongle with a valid licence, you may now start working with VirtuSurv. Chapter 3
of the manual will give you an introduction.
If you do not have a dongle with a valid licence, you will see the “Product Manager” dialogue
box when starting VirtuSurv:
Without a licence you may use VirtuSurv in Viewer mode. Therefore select the relevant option
and confirm with [OK].
In Viewer mode you may: import and export scan data and measure coordinates and
distances. You need a licence for sending coordinates and commands into other software
packages.
If you would like to try VirtuSurv (full version) please request a free trial by clicking on
[Request Trial].
If you have purchased VirtuSurv or received a trial licence from us, you may switch from
Viewer mode to licensed mode by selecting the “Search licence” option in the “Product
Configuration” dialogue box. If you have obtained VirtuSurv as part of a PointSense product or
with a link to a specific CAD system or to Windows, select the appropriate entry (If you have for
example, PointSense Plant, select it.). Then click on the [Search Licence…] button. The
licence search dialogue box opens.
For a single seat licence select the option “locally”. Then click on [Run search for licence] to
start the search. Now close the dialog with [OK]. VirtuSurv can now be used.
If you own a network license, please read the next paragraph 2.7 Setting up a Network
Licence.
2.7 Setting up a Network Licence

You can also use your CodeMeter-Dongle over a network. The dongle should be plugged into
any computer in the local network (it is advantageous to do this on a server that is always
available) and VirtuSurv is installed on any of the other computers in the network. This has the
advantage that the program can be used on several computers in the local network, without
having to unplug the dongle from one computer and plug it in on another. But then only so
many employees can use the software at the same time, as there are activated licences on the
dongle. For the commissioning of the software the following steps are necessary:
On the server computer

A server can be any computer, even a previous client. If no VirtuSurv is installed on the
computer, you will need at least the CodeMeter software to manage the licenses.
Log on with administrator privileges. Then download the "CodeMeterRuntimeXXX.exe" from
following web page under section "Dongle" and run the file:
service.faro3dsoftware.com/supportfiles
This can be installed for 64-bit and 32-bit systems. The "CodeMeter Control Center" is now
installed.
Now plug in the dongle on the server computer and start the CodeMeter-Control Center. The
quickest way is by clicking the symbol in the Windows task bar:
A dialogue box opens with status information about the dongle. Click lower right on
WebAdmin, to configure the dongle.
Your internet browser opens and displays the configuration page "CodeMeter WebAdmin".
Then click on "Configuration" – "Server".
Activate the option "Network Server“.

All other settings here can by default be left as they are. Click on [Apply] and close WebAdmin
by exiting your browser.
Note:
Please ensure that the port used on this computer is not blocked by a firewall. If need be you
must deactivate your firewall or you must release this port in the firewall settings.
If you want to use a Linux computer as the server you can download the relevant software
packet (CodeMeterRuntime Packet) from www.wibu.de-de.
On the client computer (the workstation)

Start VirtuSurv and open the licence configuration à "Help" à "Product Manager" .
From the list select the licence to search for. If you purchased VirtuSurv with a link to one CAD
or to Windows select the according entry. Then click on the [Search Licence…] button.
In the "Search licence" frame select the option "locally and in the network (slower)". Start the
search by clicking the [Run search for licence] button. The network dongle should now be
recognised.
If the server has not yet been found, you can enter in WebAdmin on the client computer, either
the IP address or the computer name which should be used when searching for the computer.
The CodeMeter Control centre has already been installed during the setup of VirtuSurv.
On the client computer also it must be ensured that no firewall hinders the connection to the
server. To test the connection enter the following into your browser http://servername:22350.
You should now be able to see the WebAdmin page of the server. If this succeeds
thenVirtuSurv should also work correctly.
2.8 Manage CodeMeter licences

2.8.1 Check the licence status
There are two ways of achieving this. The licence status for VirtuSurv can be accessed using
the Licence Manager in the menu option "Help":
Independently of that you can also see the licence information of your dongle directly in the
CodeMeter software. There you can see if the dongle is activated for any other software
products.
Click on the CodeMeter symbol in the task bar, extreme bottom right on your screen.
The "CodeMeter Control Center" opens. Click in this dialogue box, extreme bottom right, on
the button [WebAdmin].
Now the web browser is displayed on the CodeMeter WebAdmin page.

CodeMeter Network Licence
Column name Description
You can see here, for which products and add-ons the
Name
dongle has a licence.
Shows how many more times the program can be used

Unit counter before the licence expires. Normally here is "n/a" (not applic-
able - unlimited number).
With time limited licences you can see how long the
Valid until
licences have to run.
If you have purchased a network licence, the number of

Licence Quantity seats is displayed here. With a single seat licence here will
"local" be shown.
2.8.2 Release occupied network licence for other users
If you have a network licence for VirtuSurv but currently want to use it only in Viewer mode, you
may release the licence being used by yourself, so that your colleagues have access to it from
another computer. Run the Licence Manager in the “Help” menu. In the "Licence Manager"
dialogue box click the button [Log out a dongle] and then close the dialogue box.
2.8.3 Request an activation file
If you want to extend your licence or activate a new product, it may be required that you must
send us the actual licence status of your dongle. For that a so called CodeMeter Remote
Context File (WibuCmRaC) will be created and sent by email to the company
FARO Technologies, Inc.. There are two ways to create a file for the activation request:
a.) Manually, directly from the CodeMeter Control Center:

■ Start the CodeMeter Control Center by clicking on the CodeMeter symbol in the task bar,
extreme bottom right on your screen.
■ Now click on the button [Licence Update] to start the CmFAS Assistent. Click on the
button [Next >].
■ Now select the option "Create licence request" and click on [Next >].
■ In the next step select the option "Extend existing licence" and click on [Next >].
■ Select the entry "FARO Technologies Inc.(101105)" when asked for the software vendor.
Then click on [Next >].
■ Select a place to save the licence request file. As default the desktop folder is suggested.
Then click on [Commit >].
■ Finally a message is displayed informing you that the CodeMeter licence request file has
been successfully created.
■ Now send this file to FARO Technologies, Inc. ( License3DS@faro.com ) and you will
promptly receive an update file for the licence activation (see the following section).
b) Automatically with the assistance of the "Product Manager"

■ Start the Product Manager in the “Help” menu.
■ A dialogue box opens. Click on the [Request Trial…] button.

■ A wizard will take you in three steps to the goal.
2.8.4 Licence activation / update
For extending or updating your licence you will receive a licence file from FARO Technologies,
Inc.. With the help of this file the new licence will be activated and saved on your dongle.
Proceed as follows:
■ Save the file on your local hard disk drive, e.g. on the desktop.
■ In the situation where this is compressed file (ZIP) first decompress the file, otherwise this
step is omitted. You should now have before you a licence file with the extension
.WibuCmRaU.
■ Double click the licence file (left mouse button).
■ A message is displayed that asks if you want to write the new information/new content to
your CmStick. Answer with [Yes]. The successful activation will be shortly confirmed.
■ It is recommended that in connection with the activation the verified time clock of your
dongle is also updated. The procedure is to be found in the following section.
2.8.5 Verifying the time clock of the dongle
An internet connection is required. Open the CodeMeter Control Center.

The "CodeMeter Control Center" opens. Click in this dialogue box, extreme bottom right, on
the button [WebAdmin].
Now the web browser is displayed on the CodeMeter WebAdmin page.

In WebAdmin open the tab "Container" and click on "CmContainer Infos". Click on the
update icon behind the entry for the certified time.
22| 3 Working with VirtuSurv
3 Working with VirtuSurv

This chapter introduces you to working with VirtuSurv. First you will learn how to import and
open scan data and then you will get an overview of the user interface of VirtuSurv. The
following chapters will explain how to use the functions of VirtuSurv for evaluating laser scans,
how to import data and how to generate a new project. Lastly, you will learn how to export scan
data into point clouds.
3.1 First steps - opening scan data

We have prepared a sample project in order for you to immediately be able to try and get to
know VirtuSurv. You can find it under following web link:
http://download.kubit.de/VirtuSurv/Examples/. You may also start VirtuSurv and hit the
icon in the Welcome screen to access this website.

Download the EXAMPLE02_KUBIT_HOUSE_FIVESCANS.ZIP file. Save it to your computer
and then decompress it.
Start VirtuSurv. In the Welcome dialog click on “Open existing project” . The dialogue box
for the selection of VirtuSurv scan files (PVS) or project files (PVP) will open:
3 Working with VirtuSurv | 23
Browse to the place, where you have saved the example from the internet. Move to the project
directory EXAMPLE02_KUBIT_ HOUSE_VSPROJECT , select the EXAMPLE02_ KUBIT_
HOUSE.PVP file and click [Open].
Now open the view of the third scan. In order to do so select the FARO scan 003 from the
Project Explorer, click the right mouse button and select the "True color (RGB)" option from the
context menu.
A window with the coloured scan of a living room will now be opened within the main window.
Use the mouse wheel for zooming in or out. For panning press down and hold the mouse
wheel. The mouse pointer will turn into a hand. If, for any reason, the pan function of your
mouse should be inactive, please use Ctrl + right mouse button as alternative.
Open the remaining scans from the sample project. Hint: With short cut keys such as “Ctrl + A”
or “Shift or Ctrl + left mouse button” you may select all or multiple scans for opening them.
Now you are ready to familiarise with the user interface and to try out the first functions such as
the distance measurement.
3.2 The user interface

In this chapter you will get to know the user interface of VirtuSurv with its different components.
3.2.1 The menu bar
As usual you will find the menu bar in the top area. It contains in four menus, all of the general
VirtuSurv commands.
In the "File" menu you will find commands for opening, importing, saving and creating projects.
The "Measure modes" menu provides all commands for the measurement and evaluating the
scans. Via the "View" menu you may control the display of the tool-bars as well as the
arrangement of the scan windows. You will also find a button for closing all scan windows. In
the "Help" menu you will find a link to the manual, information regarding VirtuSurv, the licence
manager, the product manager for the licence configuration and a link to the download page for
sample files and additional useful macros.
3.2.2 The tool-bars
For fast access, the tool-bars with the most important general commands have been placed
directly underneath the menu bar. You may show or hide these via the "View" menu. You may
also release the tool-bars from the upper frame and place them floating or attach them to any
other frame. To do so simply move the mouse over the point line at the left edge of a tool-bar,
when the cursor turns into a cross of arrows, press and hold down the left mouse button until
you have moved the bar to the desired position.
3.2.3 The Project Explorer
The Project Explorer is situated left of the main window. The scan project that has been loaded
and its single scans are listed here in a structure view. Only one project can be opened at a
time. Single scans always belong to a project.
When selecting a scan in the Project Explorer (click with the left mouse button) the
corresponding scan view is activated in the working window and where applicable put to front.
The active scan will also be highlighted in the scan map.
By clicking the right mouse button you can open context menus with project-specific, scan
related or view related commands. Following, these context menu commands are explained
briefly.
Context menu of the project
The context menu of the project

contains the commands for saving and
closing the project as well as for adding
scans, which can likewise be found
within the "File" menu. Furthermore you
can check the project properties (project
name, path and number of scans) and
export the complete project into one or
several point clouds (LAS, PTS or PTC). You can find more information regarding exporting to
point clouds in chapter 3.7 .
With “Add Scans” you may add multiple single scans that already exist in VirtuSurv format to
your project. A dialogue box opens. There you click the [Add scans from directory] button and
simply browse to the directory where the scans you want to add are stored. VirtuSurv will list all
single scans it found there. You may now select all or just some of the scans and add them to
your new project by clicking [OK].
With “Export Scan Positions” the scan positions of the whole project can be exported to a
TXT or CVS file. This export is matched to be used in combination with kubit PointSense
products, but it is also helpful for creating a scan map outside VirtuSurv.
Context menu of a scan
The context menu of a single scan

contains commands for saving and
removing a scan from the project. You
can check the properties of the particular
scan. You can export the complete scan
or marked parts of it into a point cloud file
(LAS, PTS or PTC) with the export
command. You will find more information
regarding this command in chapter 3.7 .
The most important commands in the context menu of a scan are the ones to open the scan in
a certain display mode. You may select one of the following display modes:
Clicking on one of these entries opens the scan and shows it correspondingly in the scan view
window.
Hint: With short cut keys such as “Ctrl + A” or “Shift or Ctrl + left mouse button” you may select
all or multiple scans for opening them.
Context menu of a scan view

The context menu of a scan view includes the command for closing the view and – as long as it
is not a true colour view – the histogram stretching command.
3.2.4 The scan map
The scan map is placed below the Project Explorer. It shows the distribution of the scanner
positions.
In the scan map you may zoom with the help of

the mouse wheel and pan the view by pressing
down the mouse wheel.
Via the pulldown menu to the left above the
scan map you may switch from the top view to
another view. This is useful for projects, where
the scans are not only spread horizontally but
also vertically.
The active scan is highlighted. Click on a scan
to put it to front in the working window or to
open it.
For all scans opened in a view window the
currently visible area is outlined in the scan
map.
3.2.5 The working window
The working window is the central element of the user interface of VirtuSurv. The scans for
evaluating are displayed here. Via the context menu of the scan you determine how it shall be
displayed (see chapter 3.2.3 ).
When several scans have been opened you may arrange the scan view windows manually or -
with the help of these buttons - automatically. If the full screen mode is active, use the
scan map or the Project Explorer for putting the desired scan forward.
Use the mouse wheel in order to zoom in or out. For panning press down and hold the mouse
wheel. The mouse pointer will turn into a hand. If, for any reason, the pan function of your
mouse should be inactive, please use the Ctrl + right mouse button instead.
You may change the size of the working window to the left, right, top or bottom. Move the
mouse over the according grey edge until the mouse pointer changes . Then press down
the left mouse button and move the edge to the desired position.
3.2.6 The protocol window
Measured distances and coordinates are displayed in the protocol window. Macros used for
the measurements are also recorded here.
3.2.7 The status bar
The status bar is placed at the lower edge of the VirtuSurv window. On the left you see which
measure mode is active at the moment. Information regarding the current view mode of the
currently active scan can be seen at the very right.
3.2.8 Windows for macros and special commands
In addition to the so far described components of the user interface, windows for macros and
special commands are opened according to the selected measurement or evaluation mode. By
default these are attached to the right edge of the VirtuSurv window, but they may be detached
from the edge and moved to another position manually. This is especially useful for users
working with two screens.
In chapter 3.3 the different windows for macros and special commands are described in detail.
3.3 Evaluating with VirtuSurv

This chapter introduces you to the possibilities for the evaluation of 3D laser scan data with
VirtuSurv. Please feel free to use the sample data set, which you have opened according to
chapter 3.1 of this manual.
Before the functions are explained in detail you will get some general information.
3.3.1 Measurement unit, accuracy, etc
When importing scan data (see chapter 3.6 ) you will have to enter in which unit of length you
have scanned. Independent of this scan unit at import, you can state the measurement unit
which you want to use for the measurements in VirtuSurv. VirtuSurv will automatically convert
all measurement values into this unit.
Use the "Configure Measurement Unit" command from the "Measure mode" menu in
order to set the measurement unit. The following dialogue box opens, next to the unit you can
state the display accuracy, the decimal separator and also the thousands separator here.
The settings which you set here will affect all measurement modes. When sending the
measured values to AutoCAD (LT) or BricsCAD always the maximum measurement accuracy
is transferred.
Important information:
The accuracy of the evaluation of scan objects depends on the quality of the scans that means,
from their resolution, the quality of the registration as well as the quality of the colouring of the
scans with RGB colour values. Especially when colouring the scans, the results of the scanner
manufacturers are very different regarding the quality. Therefore we recommend to switch
from the attractive true colour (RGB) display to the display of intensity values in grey scale
when the measurement accuracy is especially important during the evaluation. In order to
switch the display mode for a scan, go to the Project Explorer move to the context menu of
the scan and select the desired view. If you would like to adapt brightness and contrast move to
the option "Histogram stretching" via the context menu of the scan view. (See chapter 3.2.3 ).
If highly reflective surfaces have been scanned too, the coordinates, which are measured
on these surfaces, are often wrong, since the distance measurement of the scanner provides
falsified values for such surfaces. You will be able to recognise reflecting surfaces in the true
colour view and the intensity view, but not, whether the distance measurement of the scanner
is incorrect. You can only see that in the distance colouring view. Switch to the distance view if
you are unsure whether measurements on reflecting surfaces are still providing correct results.
If there are colour or grey scale bounds distinguishable in the continuous surface you should
not take any measurement values from this surface.
If you measure in the true colour view and do not get a measurement value for the clicked
point then the reason for this is that there is image information from photos but no object data
for this point. That happens, for example, for highly absorbent surfaces, which swallow the
laser signal, for the sky or for distant points, which lie outside of the scan range. In the distance
view such areas without scan information are immediately visible as gaps in the image.
Hints:
Measured points are labelled by a marker (cross) in the scan. The appearance of the marker
illustrates with the help of which measurement tool the respective point has been measured.
With the " Configure Markers " command from the "Measure mode" menu you may
determine the size, the start value for numbering the markers as well as the font size and colour
of the point numbers:
Caution: When you enable the “display markers in all scans” option the performance of
VirtuSurv may slow down. The setting will only be valid for the points clicked after enabling.
After taking many measurements the number of markers in the scan view could become very
large and clarity gets lost. Use the "Delete Markers" command from the "Measure mode"
menu in order to delete all markers from the scans.

If you want to finish a measurement mode without activating another measurement mode,
simply click the button in the tool-bar or in the "Measure mode" menu.
3.3.2 Measuring point coordinates
If you want to know the coordinates of one or a few points just for informational reasons run the
"Get Coordinates" command from the "Measure mode" menu and click the desired point/s
in the scan. The clicked points are marked and the according coordinates are displayed in
the protocol window.
You may change the measurement unit and the accuracy of the display with the "Configure
Measurement Unit" command. (See chapter 3.3.1 ).
If you want to generate a coordinate list for further application, it is best to use one of the
provided "Send to Windows" macros , e.g. . You find detailed information regarding
these macros in chapters 3.3.4 and 3.4 .

Do you have a CAD system that can generate a drawing with the help of coded points? Please
refer to chapter 3.3.10 in order to learn how to generate a coded coordinate list with VirtuSurv.
3.3.3 Measuring distances
You want to take a distance from a scan, quickly? Run the "Get Distance" command from
the "Measure mode" menu. Then click the end points of the distance to be determined. The
clicked points and the connecting line will be marked and the slope distance as well as the
horizontal and vertical distance of the points is displayed in the protocol window:
You may change the measurement unit and the accuracy of the display with the "Configure
Measurement Unit" command. (See chapter 3.3.1 ).
Hint:
You may measure the width and height of a window with only one measurement (two clicks),
by clicking the end points of the window diagonal. Simply try it.
You would like to use the measured distances in other Windows programs, e.g. in order to sum
them up or to fill in forms? Please refer to chapters 3.3.4 and 3.4 in order to learn how to use
provided macros and your own customised ones.
3.3.4 Filling in forms, tables, data bases, etc
Use the "Send to Windows" command from the "Measure mode" menu if you want to get
coordinates of discrete points such as:
■ Excavation finds (archaeology),

■ Trees for the tree cadastre
■ Connection points of industrial plant components
■ Power sockets, signs, hydrants, telephone booths, etc.
or distances such as:
■ Width and height of windows, doors, etc.

■ Clearances, spaces
■ Wall lengths etc.
from your scan project and transfer them into an information system, into lists, tables or forms.
To the right of the VirtuSurv scan window the macro bar for sending to Windows
applications opens. You may move the bar and attach it to any other edge. In order to do so
click and hold the left mouse button on the head of the bar until you have moved the bar to the
desired position. The macro bar may be closed via the cross in the top right corner of the
window or by clicking on the button in the tool-bar.
VirtuSurv provides several predefined macros:
Before you can use the macros, you have to connect VirtuSurv with the Windows application to
which you want to transfer the measurement values. Open the target program first. Then click
on [Connect…] in the VirtuSurv macro bar. The following dialog opens:
Move the mouse over the cross hairs ("Finder Tool"). Click and hold the left mouse button.
Drag the cross hairs into the window, into which you would like to transfer the VirtuSurv
measurement values. The recognised application is displayed in the dialogue box. Release the
mouse button. VirtuSurv now reports successful connection.
You start a macro by clicking on the appropriate button in the macro bar. Then click the points
or distances in the scan which you would like to evaluate. You finish a macro by clicking its
button again.
Examples:
Sending coordinates to Excel:
Open an empty Excel table. In VirtuSurv run the "Configure Measurement Unit" command
and set the desired measurement unit, e.g. metre. Make sure that the decimal separator has
been set to the same as used in Excel.
If you have not already done so open the macro bar by clicking on "Send to Windows" .
Then go to [Connect…] and drag the cross hairs into the Excel window. Now VirtuSurv and
Excel are linked. Start the macro by clicking the button in the macro bar. Now, the
coordinates of the points that you click on in one or several scans are written into the Excel
table:
You finish the macro by clicking the button again.

Open the text file and in VirtuSurv the scan project with the windows that are to be measured.
Connect VirtuSurv with this file as described above. Start the macro for the sending the
horizontal and vertical distances . Click the end points of the window diagonals in order to
determine the width and height with only two clicks per window and to write them into a text file.
If you would like to measure the distances in millimetres instead of metres, use the "Configure
Measurement Unit" command , that is described in detail in chapter 3.3.1 .
Summing up distance lengths

You may also send distance lengths to the Windows calculator and add them up or subtract
them from each other. In order to do so start the Windows calculator and link it to VirtuSurv as
described above. Make sure you have set the desired measurement unit.
Try out the different macros with the sample project you have downloaded in chapter 3.1 or
with your own scans.
In chapter 3.4 Optimised evaluation – customised macros , you will learn how to
customise macros and create your own.
3.3.5 Senden von Messungen an die Zwischenablage
Mit VirtuSurv können Sie die aus Ihrem Scanprojekt abgegriffenen Koordinaten diskreter
Punkte oder Streckenlängen direkt in die Zwischenablage übernehmen und sie dann in jeder
beliebigen Windows- Applikation mit Strg+V wieder einfügen. Auf diese Weise können -
anders als bei den anderen Messmodi - Messdaten auch in Dialogfenster innerhalb eines
Programmes eingefügt werden. Es handelt sich also um eine sehr flexible Funktion.
Sie starten das Senden in die Zwischenablagen („Send to Clipboard“ ) aus dem „Measure
mode“-Menü (unter "Send to other systems"). Am rechten Rand des VirtuSurv-Fensters wird
die Leiste mit den Makros für das Senden von Informationen die Zwischenablage geöffnet.
You may move the bar and attach it to any other edge. In order to do so click and hold the left
mouse button on the head of the bar until you have moved the bar to the desired position. The
macro bar may be closed via the cross in the top right corner of the window or by clicking on the
button in the tool-bar.
VirtuSurv provides several predefined macros:

You start a macro by clicking on the appropriate button in the macro bar. Dann klicken Sie den
bzw. die Punkte, die Sie brauchen, im Scan, wechseln in das Ziel- Programm Ihrer Wahl,
klicken in das gewünschte Dialogfeld und fügen mit Strg+V den gemessenen Wert ein.
Zum Beenden eines Makros klicken Sie dessen Schaltfläche erneut.
In chapter 3.4 Optimised evaluation – customised macros , you will learn how to
customise macros and create your own.
3.3.6 Drawing with any CAD system
VirtuSurv enables you to directly draw in CAD systems using the points and distances you
measure in the scan project, without having to load the large ponderous data sets as point
clouds into your CAD system. This way you can even evaluate laser scans in CAD systems
that do not support point clouds.
As described in chapter 3.3.4 VirtuSurv can be connected to any CAD system, which is
capable of receiving data by "copy and paste" – usually those CAD systems do have a
command line (e.g. Rhinoceros 3D, IntelliCAD, etc.). In order to draw, you start the relevant
command within the CAD system. The command will generally expect the coordinates of a
point as input. In VirtuSurv you start a macro which provides the point coordinates in the format
expected by your CAD system and click the respective point in the scan. This way you can
draw ground floor plans, views and sections in CAD and model them in 3D. Even drawing
commands, that expect distance lengths as input can be "fed" with the measurement data from
VirtuSurv.
The following two predefined macros for sending coordinates into CAD systems are delivered
with the “Send to Windows” macro bar .
Caution! The coordinates will not be converted into the user coordinate systems, since there is
no bidirectional connection into the CAD system.
We provide further useful macros on a special website which you can access via the
"Download Examples & Macros" entry from the “Help” menu or the icon within the tool-bar.
In chapter 3.4 Optimised evaluation – customised macros, you learn how to customise
macros and create your own.
Tutorial – Modelling with VirtuSurv and Rhinoceros 3D 1

This tutorial explains how you can use VirtuSurv together with Rhino 3D for constructing
geometric objects directly from the laser scan data. The macros provided speed up the
processing in Rhino and exemplary demonstrate the versatility of the VirtuSurv macro system.
Opening the scan project:
Please load the sample project from the VirtuSurv web site and open it, if you have not done so
already. In chapter 3.1 you will find instructions for doing so.
Open the true colour views of scan 3 and scan 5 from the Example02_kubit_house project and
change the scan window to full screen. By selecting it in the structure view of the Project
Explorer you must ensure scan 3 is at first in front. With the mouse wheel zoom out, so that
preferably the complete living room is visible in the scan window (scan_003).
Use the "Send to Windows" command from the "Measure mode" menu or click on the icon
for sending information to Rhino. To the right of the VirtuSurv scan window the macro bar for
sending to Windows applications opens.
Importing the macros:

VirtuSurv is shipped with some predefined macros for sending coordinates and distances e.g.
to Excel (see chapter 3.3.4 ). We have also prepared some special macros for working with
1Rhinoceros (Rhino) is a product of Robert McNeel & Associates. www.rhino3d.com

Rhino. You can find these macros on our web page which you can access by clicking the
button in the “Help” menu or in the VirtuSurv tool-bar. Please, download the MACROS_FOR_
RHINO.ZIP file. Save it to your computer and uncompress it. Then copy the “RHINO
MACROS.TXT” file and the “MacroImages” folder from the folder “Macros_for_Rhino” to your
VirtuSurv application data folder. Usually you will find the application data folder here:
„C:\Users\{username}\AppData\Roaming\FARO\VirtuSurv_{versionsnummer}“
To import the Rhino macros click [Import Macros] in the lower part of the macros bar. Then
browse to “RHINO MACROS.TXT” and click [Open].
The following dialogue box opens:
On the left you find the list of the macros for the import, contained in the TXT file, on the right
the list with the macros already existing in VirtuSurv. Select the macros you would like to import
and then click [Import >]. With [Import all] you can import all macros at once.
When you have made your choice for the import, confirm with [OK]. The predefined Rhino
macros are now shown in the macros bar. You may now delete the other Windows macros you
do not need, gaining more clarity. To do so, right-click the macro button and select “Delete the
macro” in the context menu.
The VirtuSurv macros bar should now contain following buttons:
Connecting with Rhino:

In the next step VirtuSurv will be connected to Rhino. First start Rhino and open “Large
projects – metres” as the template. Rhino version 5.0 was used for this tutorial.
To get a better overview of both programs we recommend minimising the program windows to
half the screen width and arranging them side by side.
For sending the coordinates to Rhino with the correct units VirtuSurv has to be configured the
same as the Rhino settings. In our example we work in metres in Rhino. In VirtuSurv use the
“Configure Measurement Unit” command and configure there the units as you want them
to be. (See also chapter 3.3.1 ). Now also check the unit settings in Rhino at “File Properties
Units”:
Now also check the unit settings in Rhino at „File à Properties à Units“:
Before you can use the macros, you have to connect VirtuSurv with Rhino. Just click on the
[Connect…] button in the VirtuSurv macro bar. The following dialogue opens:
Move the mouse over the cross hairs ("Finder Tool"). Click and hold the left mouse button.
Drag the cross hairs into Rhino’s command line. The dialogue box confirms Rhinoceros has
recognised application. Release the mouse button. VirtuSurv now reports successful
connection.
VirtuSurv has now been prepared to send coordinates and commands to Rhino. For a first test
select the point macro from the VirtuSurv macros bar and click any point in the scan view
with the left mouse button. VirtuSurv now sends the “Point” command followed by the x, y, z
coordinates to Rhino, which then draws the according point.
Rhinoceros macros overview:

The pre-defined Rhino macros are divided in two classes:
1. Macros for sending coordinates or distances
2. Macros for starting Rhino commands
The first class can be used whenever Rhino demands a point or a distance as input. The
second class does not only send the coordinate of the point clicked in VirtuSurv but at the same
time sends a command or even a command option to the Rhino command line.
Following table lists all pre-defined macros:
Macro Usage Remarks
Macros for sending coordinates or distances
Click point in scan

w XYZ Sends x, y, z coordinates as
world coordinates
Click point in scan
Sends x, y, z coordinates as The [Enter] at the end simultaneously closes the

w XYZ [enter]
world coordinates followed by current Rhino command
[Enter]
The coordinates refer to the current Rhino

construction plane.
Caution! The global coordinates of VirtuSurv will

Click point in scan
not be converted into the coordinates of the current
XY
Sends x, y coordinates construction plane. This macro should only be used
together with construction planes that have been
created by shifting the world coordinates along the
z-axis.
Click point in scan Also see macro “XY”

XY [enter] Sends x, y coordinates The [Enter] at the end simultaneously closes the
followed by [Enter] current Rhino command
Macro Usage Remarks
Click point in scan

This macros is used in combination with the
w xy0 Sends x, y coordinates and z
command “Construction plane by 3 points”
= 0 as world coordinates
Click two points in scan

vertical dist Sends vertical distance
between both points
Click two points in scan

horizontal dist Sends horizontal distance
between both points
Macros for starting Rhino commands
Click point in scan Current construction plane will be aligned with the
z-coordinate defines height of world coordinates. Origin of the new construction
a new construction plane plane is 0,0,z
Afterwards use [w xy0] and click the second point

Click point in scan
in direction of the x-axis. Then use [w XYZ] and
Starts the command
click the third point. The construction plane is
“Construction plane by 3
created in a way the x-axis lays in the xy-plane of
points”
the world coordinate system.
Click point in scan
Draws a point at x, y, z
Afterwards use [XY] to click further points and [XY

[enter]] for the last point and finishing the
command. The polyline is drawn on the XY plane of
the current construction plane.
Click point in scan
Caution! The global coordinates of VirtuSurv will
Starts the “Polyline” command not be converted into the coordinates of the current
construction plane. This macro should only be used
together with construction planes that have been
created by shifting the world coordinates along the
z-axis.
Macro Usage Remarks
Afterwards use [w XYZ] to click further points and

Click point in scan
[w XY [enter]] for the last point and finishing the
Starts the “Polyline” command
command.
Click point in scan

Afterwards use [w XYZ] and click the second point
Starts the “Rectangle”
on the end of the edge. Then use [w XYZ] and click
command with the “3 points”
the points to define the width.
option
Click point in scan

Afterwards use [w XYZ] and click the second point
Starts the “PlanarFace”
on the end of the edge. Then use [w XYZ] and click
command with the “3 points”
the points to define the width.
option
Click point in scan

Afterwards use [w XYZ] and click three further
Starts the
points or finish the command with [w XYZ [enter]]
“PlaneThroughPoints”
after the third points.
command
Using the Rhino macros

You have already tried a simple macro when sending a point to Rhino. In the following
paragraphs it will be shown how to combine various macros for Rhino.
Select the (3D Polyline) macro from the VirtuSurv macros bar and click any point in the
scan to run the command. For drawing the window outline select the “w XYZ” macro and click
the points you need in the scan. You may also open several scans at once and click the
coordinates in different scans if needed. The macro is active until you click on its button again or
select another macro. To finishing the polyline use the [w XYZ [enter]] macro or switch to Rhino
and finish the command there by pressing [Enter]. You should now see a similar result as
shown in the figure below.
Check for videos on http://www.youtube.com/user/kubitTV and

http://faro-3d-software.com/CAD/Products/VirtuSurv/3D_Laser_Scanning_VirtuSurv.php.
Do you want to run more drawing commands directly from VirtuSurv? In chapter 3.4 you learn
how to generate your own macros.
3.3.7 Drawing with SEMA
VirtuSurv provides a direct connection for users of the timber construction CAD system SEMA.
To connect VirtuSurv with SEMA go in the “Measure mode” menu to “Send to other systems”
and click there on “Send to SEMA”:
To be able to receive data from VirtuSurv in the SEMA software, you must have purchased
and activated a SEMA licence for the bill of quantities module.
If the connection between VirtuSurv and SEMA has been established, simply start the drawing
command of your choice in SEMA and then pick the points in the scan in VirtuSurv that you
need for your construction.
The transfer of the survey points from VirtuSurv is integrated into the SEMA program in the
form of a “3D mouse”. In every situation in SEMA where you would normally define a point by a
mouse click in the drawing, you can select a point in the VirtuSurv scan. The coordinates will be
transferred to the construction command in SEMA.
It is recommended to open both programs next to one another.
Example: Enter a wall over two points.

You will be prompted on the SEMA input line to enter two points (“from point” , “to point”). That
is usually done by a mouse click on an object in the drawing window. In this example you define
the desired points by clicking on existing walls in the VirtuSurv scan.
To be able to send the coordinates to SEMA in the correct units, the VirtuSurv settings have to
be configured in the same way as the SEMA settings. In VirtuSurv use the “Configure
Measurement Unit” command and configure there the units as you want them to be. (See
section 3.3.1 ).
3.3.8 Drawing with AutoCAD (LT)
VirtuSurv provides a special macro system for evaluating with AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT. In
this way it is especially comfortable for AutoCAD users to draw and model. You may run the
drawing commands directly from VirtuSurv and do not have to switch between VirtuSurv and
AutoCAD. Besides that, the connection to AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT is established
automatically.
And this is how it works:
Open the macro bar for the transfer to AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT by running the "Send to
AutoCAD (LT)" command from the "Measure mode" menu. The connection to AutoCAD is
established at the same time.

The AutoCAD macro bar is being opened on the right hand edge of the VirtuSurv window. You
may move the bar and attach it to any other edge. In order to do so click and hold the left mouse
button on the head of the bar until you have moved the bar to the desired position. The macro
bar may be closed via the cross in the top right corner of the window or by clicking on the

VirtuSurv provides several predefined AutoCAD macros:
You start a macro by clicking on the appropriate button in the macro bar. Then, in the scan,
click the points you need to draw. You finish a macro by clicking its button again.
Tutorial – drawing the outline plan of a room in AutoCAD

Please load the sample project from the VirtuSurv web site and open it, if you have not done so
already. In chapter 3.1 you will find instructions for doing so.
Open the true colour views of scan 3 and scan 5 from the Example02_kubit_house project and
change the scan window to full screen. By selecting it in the structure view of the Project
Explorer you must ensure scan 3 is at first in front. With the mouse wheel zoom out, so that
preferably the complete living room is visible in the scan window (scan_003).
Start AutoCAD and open a new empty drawing.
Open the AutoCAD macro bar in VirtuSurv by running the "Send to AutoCAD (LT) "
command from the "Measure mode" menu. Click on the button in order to start the macro
for drawing lines. Now click two points on every wall as follows in order to draw the outline line
of the living room in AutoCAD. Ensure that you do not click directly in the corners; such a
measurement would be too inaccurate. You will generate the correct sharp corners later on in
AutoCAD.
Then continue with the separating wall at the stairs.
Then proceed clockwise:

Now change to scan 5, by selecting it in the Project Explorer. Then zoom to the small part of the
wall which separates the sitting area from the niche of the staircase and click two points on this
narrow area.
Follow the run of the wall in the niche of the staircase:

Being still in scan 5, leave the niche of the staircase:
Remember to click the wall surface close to the corners not directly in the corners or on the
edges.
To follow the run of the wall into the kitchen, change back to scan 3 by selecting it in the Project
Explorer. Now move the view in the scan window (hold down mouse wheel or Ctrl + right
mouse button), so you can see the kitchen area. Now click the next wall point:
Point 23 is the first point on the last wall. The scan is an all around scan (360°) and it has been
unpicked on the last wall for creating the planar view. Therefore you have to zoom out, pan the
view to the left part of the scan and zoom onto the corner with which you have started to draw
the outline of the living room in order to measure the second point on the last wall: Now click
point 24.
You finish the line macro and at the same time close the line run by right clicking in the scan.
After "Zoom to extents" you will see the outline of the living room which you have just drawn
with VirtuSurv.
Note: If you want to finish a line run without closing it, just click again on the macro button .
This will finish the line macro. For finishing the line command in AutoCAD you click the
“ENTER” button in VirtuSurv. You do not have to switch to AutoCAD for this.
So far, the corners are cut off and the lines are positioned on the height, measured in the scan.
You level the lines by selecting them all and setting the Z values of the starting points and end
points to zero in the properties window.
Hint: If you adapt the line macro so it will draw 2D instead of 3D you will not have to level the
lines afterwards. You learn how to do that in the next chapter.
Now the corners have to be sharpened. In order to do so, use the AutoCAD command FILLET
with the following settings:
Current settings: Mode = TRIM, radius = 0.0000
Select the wall lines that run towards the corner when you are asked for the first and the
second object. Lastly, delete the short sloped line segments. With this the floor plan has been
corrected.
If you use AutoCAD plug-ins from FARO or kubit, e.g. TachyCAD or PointSense, thanks to the
provided special commands, you draw far more efficiently, since you do not have to sharpen
the corners manually.
Using the line macro you can also draw the staircase and the run of the ceiling beam. To do so,
choose the suitable scans. Unfortunately there is no scan available for the upper part of the
staircase.
In completion of this tutorial there are blocks to be inserted into the floor plan at the positions of
the ceiling lamps. At first generate the block in AutoCAD. Draw two concentric circles ("Circle"
command and "Centre" object snap).
Then run the BLOCK command. Assign a name to the block (e.g. lamp) and determine the
insertion point, by clicking the "Pick point" button and then snap the centre of the circle in the
drawing. Via the "Select objects" button you assign the two circles that you have just drawn to
the block.
The block will be defined in the drawing when you press the [OK] button.
Start the "Insert" command of AutoCAD.
Now select the name of the block definition you have just generated. The other options should
be set as can be seen in the above screen shot. Confirm with [OK]. Now AutoCAD expects the
input of a set of coordinates for the insertion point.
Change to VirtuSurv. Start the macro for sending 3D coordinates to AutoCAD . Activate
scan 3. Zoom to the lamps in the sitting area and click on the socket of the first ceiling lamp and
about in the middle of the lamp chimney.
The coordinate of the clicked point is transmitted to AutoCAD and the block is inserted into the
drawing at that exact position.
Start the "Insert" command of AutoCAD again and repeat the sequence for the remaining
lamps.
The result of the exercise should look like this:
Windows and doors can be drawn and dimensioned more efficiently when using special
commands. FARO or kubit offer different AutoCAD plug-ins for this. When using those you run
the according command and measure the needed points with VirtuSurv.
Hint: We have prepared further useful macros (e.g. for drawing 2D). You find these macros on
our webpage which you can access by clicking the button in the “Help” menu or on the
VirtuSurv tool-bar. In Chapter 3.4.4 you learn how to import these macros.
3.3.9 Drawing with BricsCAD
VirtuSurv provides a special macro system for evaluating with BricsCAD. In this way it is
especially comfortable for BricsCAD users to draw and model. You can run the drawing
commands directly from VirtuSurv and do not have to switch between VirtuSurv and
BricsCAD. Besides that, the connection to BricsCAD is established automatically.
And this is how it works:
Open the macro bar for the transfer to BricsCAD by running the "Send to BricsCAD"
command from the "Measure mode" menu. The connection to BricsCAD is established at the
same time.
The BricsCAD macro bar is being opened on the right hand edge of the VirtuSurv window. You
may move the bar and attach it to any other edge. In order to do so click and hold the left mouse
button on the head of the bar until you have moved the bar to the desired position. The macro
bar may be closed via the cross in the top right corner of the window or by clicking on the

VirtuSurv provides several predefined BricsCAD macros:
You start a macro by clicking on the appropriate button in the macro bar. Then, in the scan,
click the points you need to draw. You finish a macro by clicking its button again.
If you want to practice working with VirtuSurv and BricsCAD, you may download example data
from the VirtuSurv example web page and open it. In chapter 3.1 you will find instructions for
doing so. Then just follow the tutorial provided for AutoCAD (LT) (on page 51ff).
3.3.10 Creating a coded field book
With the function for creating a coded field book, VirtuSurv takes on the established role of the
surveyor. It addresses users who have, so far, observed their objects coded with a total station,
in order to automatically generate a finished drawing with the help of the codes when importing
the measurement data into their CAD system. Now these users may also use laser scanner
data in order to create their coded point lists, their field book.
In this chapter you will learn, with the help of a notional example, how to generate, transfer and
edit your code list. You will learn how to use the code list, in order to create a coded field book.
And you will learn how to configure, edit and save the field book.
Please note that this function is only of use for you, when your CAD system comes with a
function for importing coded data. Please use those codes, that your CAD system needs for
the drawing and which fit your field of application.
Run the "Create Field Book" command from the "Measure mode" menu under "Send to
other systems". The task bar for the generation of a coded field book opens at the right hand
edge of the VirtuSurv window. You may move the bar freely or attach it to the left hand edge. In
order to do so click and hold the left mouse button on the head of the bar until you have moved
the bar to the desired position. The task bar can be closed via the cross in the top right corner or
by clicking in the tool-bar.
Creating a code list

To generate a code list, you may simply enter your codes into the relevant field. They will be
added to the code list. If you want to create a larger code list with code groups and a description
for every code, click the [Create/edit code list...] button. The following dialog opens:
You may enlarge the window to get an overview of the list without having to scroll a lot.
The upper part contains the list of defined codes. At the moment this is empty. Every code will
be assigned to exactly one code group. The description helps the user to understand the often
cryptic code and to select the correct point code when measuring points.
Click the [New code] button in order to add a new code to the list. A new line will be added to
the list (at the lower end).
To enter or edit a code, double click into the code field and enter the code. The entry of the
description works analogue. You may either enter a new code group or select one from the list
of code groups.
Simply try it. Use the codes, which you use for your total station survey! (The example in this
manual is only notional).
VirtuSurv allows codes which are composed of a string of digits or letters or a combination of
both. The CAD software Geograf for example expects point codes which consist of four digits.
The codes do not only control what will be drawn in your CAD system but also how it will be
displayed (line width, symbols, hatches, etc.).
No code or description are allowed to be assigned twice. VirtuSurv checks this and secures
this uniqueness by warning the user:
You may generate different code lists for different tasks. If you have entered all codes you
need, save the code list by clicking [OK]. [Cancel] drops your changes in the code list
If you want to delete a code from the list, select the code and click the [Remove selected
code] button. You may also select several codes to be deleted by using the Ctrl or Shift keys.
Export your code list, generated in VirtuSurv, in order to be able to use it on all of your
computers, or to keep it when installing a VirtuSurv update. Click on [Export code list…] and
save the list with a meaningful name. Copy the exported code list file to the new computer.
There start the "Create Field Book" command from the "Measure mode" menu in
VirtuSurv. Click on the [Create/edit code list…] button and then on the [Import code list…]
button when in the code list window. Select the code list file to be imported. Now you can use
the codes here as well.
Using the code list – create field book

When you have defined the code list as described above, you can now use it for creating a
coded field book when measuring in the scan project.
At the very top of the field book task bar, enter the point ID of the point to be measured and
define the increment. After measuring the point (by clicking in the scan) the next point number
is displayed, according to the increment. Enter a negative increment if the measurement points
are to be counted downwards from the starting point number.
Select the desired code from the list, before measuring the point. Via the code group list, you
may pre- filter the codes and then get only the codes belonging to the code group. The
description for the selected code is displayed too. You may enter any comment in the
"Comment" field. Of course you may also select a code by its description.
After you have selected point number and code, click the point to be measured in the scan. It
will be written to the field book with its coordinates and the code.
To view, edit and save the field book click the [Open field book…] option. The field book will
be opened:
You may enlarge the window to get an overview of the list without having to scroll a lot. You
may sort the field book by columns by clicking the according column header.
Measurement unit, display accuracy and decimal separator must agree with the settings under
"Configure Measurement Unit" from the "Measure mode" menu. Make sure to set the
correct unit before you start measuring!

By default the point ID, the point code, the point coordinates and the measurement units are
displayed in the field book. If you want to display and save the description and the comment for
every point or change the order of the columns in addition to the above, click on
[Configure…]. The following dialogue box opens:
Make sure, the coded field book has a format which can be imported from your CAD system.
If you want to delete single points from the field book, select them and click on [Remove
selected row]. You may also select several codes to be deleted by using the Ctrl or Shift keys.
With the [Cancel] button you close the field book and discard all changes. With [OK] all
changes are adopted upon closing.
When you have measured everything that has to be drawn afterwards in the CAD system, click
on [Save to file], in order to save the field book to a text file. After you have entered a name for
the field book file and clicked on save, a dialogue box with the preview opens, where you may
determine the separator for the columns:
By clicking [Write] the field book file is written. Since it is a text file, it may be opened and edited
with a text editor at any time.
Make sure, the coded field book has a format which can be imported from your CAD system.
Important note:
VirtuSurv continues to write to the existing field book until the user clears it with the [Clear field
book] button. Newly measured points are added at the end. When you have finished a
measurement project, save it with [Save to file] and then clear the field book before creating
the next field book.
3.4 Optimised evaluation – customised macros

You are already familiar with the advantages and the use of VirtuSurv macros in chapters 3.3.4
to 3.3.9 . Laser scan data are gathered and evaluated for many different tasks/results.
Therefore VirtuSurv provides functions, so that you may optimise the software for your own
special tasks. In this chapter you will learn how to customise the predefined macros and create
new macros with the help of the macro editor.
There are two kinds of macros in VirtuSurv:
■ one type of macro is for the structured sending of measurement values (coordinates
or distances) to any Windows application, such as Excel, data bases, any CAD software,
■ on the other hand special macros for the sending to AutoCAD (LT) or BricsCAD,
where not only measurement values can be transferred but also CAD commands can be
started and controlled.
There are separate macro bars for the different macro types. Layout and handling of the macro
bars are analogue. The buttons with the predefined macros are in the upper part, the buttons
for the creation of new macros and for the import and export of macros are in the lower part.
3.4.1 Customise predefined macros
To customise an existing macro, right-click, in the macro bar, on the macro button. A context
menu will open:
Click "Delete the macro" in order to remove the macro from the bar. Caution: If you have not
exported the macro in advance, it will be lost! You may read how to export and import macros
again on page 83.
Click the " Edit the macro" button in order to open the macro in the editor. The editor for
Windows macros and the editor for AutoCAD (LT) or BricsCAD macros are very similar. They
only differ in the kind of the macro that is generated. You will learn more about the components
and functions of the editor starting on page 77.
Let’s take a look on how to adapt the macro for sending coordinates to a text file, so that you will
be able to send the coordinates of a point that you have measured in a scan to a CAD system,
e.g. to IntelliCAD. Open the macro as described above:
In the upper part of the editor you find the macro definition. The type of measurement has been
set to point measurement. Keep this setting since you want to send point coordinates. The
macro itself is, at the moment, described with:
|x| |y| |z|<enter>
That means, VirtuSurv sends the X, Y and Z coordinates, each separated by space and
followed by ENTER, into the selected Windows application.
Most CAD systems (IntelliCAD as well) expect the X, Y, Z coordinates separated by a comma
for their drawing commands. Go to the macro definition and replace the spaces between the
coordinates by commas. Leave the <enter>. Most CAD systems finish the entry of the
coordinates with ENTER.
|x|,|y|,|z|<enter>
The unit and the decimal separator are not configured in the macro definition but with the global
command "Configure Measurement Unit" from the "Measure mode" menu (see chapter
3.3.1 ). Usually, CAD software expects a point as decimal separator in the coordinate.
Therefore ensure, that the measurement unit has been configured accordingly before sending
the coordinates.
You may customise the appearance of the buttons for the macro in the lower part of the macro
editor. Keep width and height as they are. Activate the "Text for Button" option and enter "XYZ"
as Text for the button. As text for the tool- tip enter for example "Send XYZ coordinates to
CAD". The name of the macro is to be "XYZ CAD". At the very bottom you will see a preview
for the button.
Confirm you adaptation with [OK]. You now have a macro with which you can send
coordinates to IntelliCAD and to other CAD systems. Of course it is possible, to simply
generate coordinate lists in a text file with the same macro.
3.4.2 Create new Windows macros
Open the macro bar and click the [New Macro] button in order to create a new macro for
the sending of measurement values into any application. The macro editor will open. You
define the macro in the upper part, in the lower part you configure the appearance of the
button. Please do not forget to assign a meaningful name to the macro. The macro name will
be displayed when exporting or importing macros.
For macros for sending to any Windows application, VirtuSurv distinguishes between two
kinds of measurement: point measurement and distance measurement. A macro for point
measurement is composed of coordinates and control characters. For the distance
measurement you can decide whether the slope distance, the horizontal distance, the vertical
distance or a combination of distances is to be sent.
Grammar used in VirtuSurv Windows-macros

General control items:
Tabulator <tab>
Enter <enter>
Cursor control
Left, right <left>, <right>
Up, down <up>, <down>
Components for point measurement:

X coordinate |x|
Y coordinate |y|
Z coordinate |z|
Components for distance measurement:

Slope distance |slope|
Horizontal distance |horizontal| (e.g. for the width of things, doors, windows)
Vertical distance |vertical| (e.g. for the height of things, doors, windows)
Text that is not included in <> or | | will be passed directly to the application. If you would like to
separate the coordinates by a semicolon, just enter the semicolon. If you want to write a prefix
or suffix in front of or behind a measurement, simply enter it as text. Spaces, which have been
entered between components, will also be passed directly.
Examples:
Sending the X, Y and Z coordinate into three different Excel columns with line break:
|x|<right>|y|<right>|z|<down><left><left>
Sending the horizontal distance and the vertical distance between two points, separated by
semicolon, followed by ENTER (with "Width" or "Height" as prefix and "m" for metre as suffix):
Width: |horizontal| m; height: |vertical| m<enter>
Hint:
The unit and the decimal separator are not configured in the macro definition but with the global
command "Configure Measurement Unit" from the "Measure mode" menu (see chapter
3.3.1 ).
Example macros for Rhinoceros:

Macro for creating a planar surface:
_Plane<enter>_3Point<enter>w|x|,|y|,|z|<enter>
VirtuSurv sends this macro definition into Rhino’s the command line as soon as you click a
point in the scan:
_Plane starts the command “PlanarSurface“
<enter> control string for “Enter“ confirms the command input
_3Point calls the command option “3Points“
<enter> control string for “Enter“ confirms the command option
w the „w“ in front tells Rhino the coordinates refer to the world coordinate system.
|x| X coordinate of the clicked point
, Comma as coordinate separator
|y| Y coordinate of the clicked point
, Comma as coordinate separator
|z| Z coordinate of the clicked point
<enter> control string for “Enter“ confirms the coordinate input
With the mouse click into the scan the macro is finished. If further coordinates are needed for
the command, another macro needs to be started. For the “Create PlanarSurface” command
this can be accomplished by sending further coordinates using following additional macro:
w|x|,|y|,|z|<enter>
This macro does not send any command to Rhino but simply the coordinate of the clicked point
with a “w” for the world coordinate system in front of it. The macro is finished by sending an
“Enter”. This macro can be used universally and in combination with different Rhino
commands. Even if you have not created a VirtuSurv macro for the Rhino command.
With this knowledge of the structure of the Rhino macro definitions you can now create your
own individual macros for customising VirtuSurv to your needs when working with Rhino.
Hint: We have prepared further useful Rhino macros. You find these macros on our webpage
which you can access by clicking the button in the “Help” menu or on the VirtuSurv tool-bar.
In Chapter 3.4.4 you learn how to import these macros. Also read on page 41ff, how you can
work with VirtuSurv and Rhino.
3.4.3 Create new AutoCAD macros or BricsCAD macros
Open the relevant macro bar or and click on the [New Macro] button in order to create
a new macro for sending AutoCAD or BricsCAD commands. The macro editor will open. You
define the macro in the upper part, in the lower part you configure the appearance of the
button. Please do not forget to assign a meaningful name to the macro. The macro name will
be displayed when exporting or importing macros.
Grammar used in VirtuSurv AutoCAD/BricsCAD macros

Components for sending coordinates:
3D coordinates for exactly one point |@3d|
2D coordinates for exactly one point |@2d|

3D coordinates for an infinite number of points |~3d|
2D coordinates for an infinite number of points |~2d|
A macro consists of:
■ CAD control items (e.g. ^C in front for cancelling or ^M or space for ENTER)
■ CAD commands (displayed in blue below)
■ Where applicable command line options of the CAD commands (displayed in green below)
■ As well as the coordinate components specified above.
With the help of examples it will be easiest for you to learn which manifold options you have and
how the control items are to be used. The use of upper and lower case letters is not important.
Knowledge about the functioning of CAD command line call up is an advantage for the
generation of macros. We would be happy to train you.
Important: There is a command line version (command name with minus prefix) for every
AutoCAD command (the dialogue based as well). Everything you can enter into the AutoCAD
command line can be transferred with a VirtuSurv macro.
Examples:
Drawing lines in 3D in AutoCAD:
^C^C_LINE |~3D|_CL ^M
The AutoCAD control characters ^C^C finish commands, which could still be active in
AutoCAD. _LINE is the language independent AutoCAD command for drawing lines. In this
way the macro will work in a Russian or German AutoCAD as well. Between the AutoCAD
command and the component for sending coordinates is a space, since in AutoCAD the space
is used to confirm the inputs or commands. That means the space is the same as ENTER. You
may also write ^M (as ENTER) instead of the space into the macro. AutoCAD expects any
number of 3D points for drawing lines, therefore the |~3d| component is used. _CL is the
AutoCAD command line option for closing the line run.
To finish the macro you can click the button in the macro bar. You will have to finish the line
command in AutoCAD yourself, since it is an open macro with an infinite number of points. You
can decide yourself whether to finish with ENTER or ESC or if you want to use the "Close"
option. You may also finish the macro by clicking the right mouse button in the scan
window. At the same time the command in AutoCAD is finished too using the
“close” option.
You want to draw only one line (two 3D points)? Change the macro as follows:
^C^C_LINE |@3d||@3d|^C^C
Please note that there must not be any space between the placeholders for the 3D
coordinates. Since the number of points is limited to two, the line command can be finished at
the end of the macro - therefore ^C^C at the end. Macro and line command are here
automatically finished.
Drawing a circle through three points in AutoCAD:

^C^C_CIRCLE^M3p |@3d||@2d||@2d|
Please note that there has to be a space or ^M behind the AutoCAD command. The 3P option
has to be called up in order for the circle to be drawn through three points on the
circumference. A circle is a plane element in AutoCAD, which will always be drawn parallel to
the XY plane of the current user coordinate system (UCS) at the height of the Z value of the
first point. Therefore AutoCAD expects 3D coordinate for the first point but only 2D coordinates
for the following two points. Keep this in mind for all 2D AutoCAD drawing elements. The circle
command is automatically finished after entering the three points and the macro is also finished
without any further interaction.
Defining UCS through three points in AutoCAD:

^C^C_UCS _3 |@3d||@3d||@3d|
This macro runs the AutoCAD command for the definition of a UCS. Please note that there has
to be a space (or ^M for ENTER) after the command name. _3 is the command line option,
which states, that the UCS will be defined by three points. Firstly, AutoCAD expects the point
for the origin of the new UCS, then the direction of the positive X axis and at last a point with
positive Y coordinate. As user of this macro you have to know this in order to click the three
points in the scan in the correct order.
You may also run several commands successively in one macro.

Here an example:
^C^C_Line |~3d|^C^C_Circle 3p |@3d||@2d||@2d|^C^C
A run of lines is drawn through a previously not defined number of points and afterwards a
circle through three points. How does VirtuSurv know when the line is finished and when to
begin drawing the circle? When you have clicked enough points for the line run in the scan,
simply click the right mouse button in the scan window. With this the sub macro for the drawing
of the line is finished and VirtuSurv executes the next command in the macro – here the
drawing of the circle.
Drawing a line on a certain layer (AutoCAD):

^C^C_-LAYER^M_T^MWand^M_M^MWand^M_S^MWand^M^M_LINE^M|~3d|^M
The language independent command line version of the layer manager will be started
(_-LAYER). After that the _T option unfreezes the layer with the name Wall if it should be
frozen. Then the _M (make) option is used in order to create the layer Wall if it does not yet
exist in the AutoCAD drawing. The layer Wall is set 'current' with the _S option. The layer
command is finished by a double ENTER and the line command will be called up. ^M was
written as closure, so the line command and the macro can be finished by a right-click in the
scan. If you finish the macro per click on the relevant button, the line command in AutoCAD will
still be active and you can decide yourself whether you want to close the line run or not.
Do you always want to generate closed line runs with the macro? Then insert the _C option for
"Close" before the last ^M.
Inserting a block that is already defined in the drawing (AutoCAD):

^C^C_-INSERT^Mlampe^M|@3D|^M^M^M
The language independent command line version of the INSERT command will be started (_-
INSERT). "Lamp" is the name of the block definition in the AutoCAD drawing template. With
|@3d| the 3D coordinates of a single point are transferred to AutoCAD. The macro ends with
three times ^M for ENTER: the first one confirms the coordinate. The other two ENTER
confirm the insertion scale and the rotation of the block like they have been entered during
previous block insertion (default: 1 for the scale, 0 for the rotation).
Hint: Not only AutoCAD commands but also commands of AutoCAD plug-ins are usable in
the VirtuSurv macros. FARO provides a number of AutoCAD plug-ins. Please visit www.faro-
software.com.
Hint: We have prepared additional useful macros (e.g. for drawing 2D). You find these macros
on our webpage which you can access by clicking the button in the “Help” menu or on the
VirtuSurv tool-bar. In Chapter 3.4.4 you learn how to import these macros.
3.4.4 Transfer macro definitions to other computers
In order for you to be able to transfer VirtuSurv macros to other computers and to make it
available to other users, there are the [Export Macros] and [Import Macros] buttons at the
bottom of all macro bars ( , and ).
Click [Export Macros] to save your macros to an external text file. Select the folder where you
want to file the macros and confirm with [OK]. In the target folder a sub directory with the name
"VirtuSurvMacros" will be created. It contains a folder "MacroImages" where the icons of your
self- defined macros will be stored if applicable. The macros themselves are written to
AUTOCAD MACROS.TXT or WINDOWS MACROS.TXT.
Just forward the "VirtuSurvMacros" folder to other VirtuSurv users or copy the folder to the
new computer.
On the target computer open the desired macro bar in VirtuSurv. Then click on [Import
Macros]. Browse to the copied "VirtuSurvMacros" folder in the file selection window and open
AUTOCAD MACROS.TXT , BRICSCAD MACROS.TXT or WINDOWS MACROS.TXT
according to the kind of macro you would like to import. The following dialogue box opens:
On the left you find the list of the macros for the import, contained in the TXT file, on the right
the list with the macros already existing in VirtuSurv. Select the macros you would like to import
and then click [Import >]. With [Import all] you can import all macros at once.
If a macro to be imported has the same name as an existing macro a dialogue box will open,
where you can change the name of the macro to be imported. For safety reasons existing
macros are not automatically overwritten.
In order that you do not have the same macro twice in the macro bar, but just with different
names, it is possible to compare the contents of an existing macro with the contents of a macro
to be imported. To do so select the macros you want to compare in the left and right list. The
content of the according macro is displayed in the window below.
When you have made your choice for the import, confirm with [OK].
3.5 Create a new project

VirtuSurv can only be used with one project opened. Therefore you may create a new project
directly from the Welcome screen. Just click the relevant button . Now enter a project name
and select the path for where to save the project.

If you have just been working on a project in VirtuSurv and want to create a new one you may
run the "New Project" command from the "File" menu or the tool-bar. After entering
directory and name the previous project will be closed. If relevant you are asked if you want to
save changes.
In the target folder VirtuSurv creates a project directory with the name of the project. It contains
the VirtuSurv project file { PROJECTNAME }.PVP, which is opened in VirtuSurv and will
reference the single scans you add to the project.
The name of the newly generated, empty project appears in the Project Explorer.
Now you can add scans to the project either by importing new scan data (see chapter 3.6 ) or
by adding VirtuSurv single scans (PVS files). For the second option just right click on the
project name in the Project Explorer and run the “Add scans” command from the context
menu. A dialogue box opens. Click the [Add scans from directory] button and browse to the
directory containing the scans. VirtuSurv will list all single scans it found there. You may now
select all or just some of the scans and add them to your new project by clicking [OK]. VirtuSurv
will copy them to the new project directory. Please save the project (à ). The changes are
now written to the project file.

If scans of different scanner types have been registered in the same superior coordinate
system, you can combine them in one project.
3.6 Import scan data

In VirtuSurv the scan data is displayed in a photo- like planar view. The three dimensional
information of the scan is maintained. VirtuSurv works with an optimised format to avoid long
waiting times when opening the scan data and when working with them.
VirtuSurv supports the import of different scan data formats. At the moment these are:
■ PTX (format which is supported by different scanner manufacturers)

■ PTG (Leica, but also supported by other manufacturers)
■ FLS, FWS, LSPROJ (FARO single scans and projects)
■ ZFS, ZFPRJ (Zoller & Fröhlich single scans and projects)
■ CL3, CLR (Topcon)
■ E57 (independent standard exchange format, supported by Riegl, Trimble, FARO,
Autodesk and many more manufacturers)
If the scans have been registered in the same superior coordinate system, the single scans of
different scanner types can be combined in one project. You learn how to create a new
project in chapter3.5 .
If you want to import a scan or a scan project, run the "Import Scans" command from the
"File" menu. The import dialogue box opens:

Section "Select scans or project"

Select the data you want to import under "Select scans or project". Click on [Browse] and
browse to your single scan files or your scan project. You may select several single scans at the
same time. If the single scans are filed in different directories, press [Browse] again until you
have selected all of the scans that you want to import. If, instead of single scans, you have
selected a scan project file (e.g. FWS, LSPROJ or ZFPRJ), it can take a few seconds before
the single scans will be displayed in the import list. All of the selected scan files will be shown
together in the import list. Should you want to exclude individual files from being imported,
remove the selection tick before the particular scan. Hint: You can highlight (light blue) all scans
with Ctrl+A, or Ctrl+left mouse button or Shift+left mouse button for multiple scans. The
selection tick will then be respectively removed or set for all highlighted scans.
Button [Scan view orientation]
Use this option when you are unsure whether your scans have been saved standing on their
heads or as a mirrored image, as the case may be. You can then ensure before the time-
consuming import, whether the scans will be correctly aligned when imported. Also take note of
the information further below on specific scan data formats.
With a single click on the button [Scan view orientation] you can create a preview for one of the
scans highlighted (light blue) in the list. It can take a few seconds before the dialogue box
opens, as the preview must first be computed:
You can see in the black and white preview how the scan that you selected will look like after it
has been imported. To the right of the preview pane in the “Operations” group you will find
some tools with which you can correct the alignment of the scan view.
■ [New centre line]: Click on this button and then in the preview precisely where you want to
define the new vertical centreline of the scan view. This is useful should a scan be split on an
inappropriate position.
■ [New centre]: Click on this button and then in the preview precisely where you want to set
the new centre point of the scan view. This is useful where the scanner has been set up hori-
zontally, but you now want to work on a fresco on the ceiling. In the preview click on a point
on the ceiling:
This now becomes the centre of the new view
■ [Rotation]: Here you can rotate the scan view by a defined angular value.
You can use multiple operations in succession on a single scan.

Example of use PTX scans:
Preview without any operations
270° clockwise rotation
In the pane under the preview you can see which operations have been carried out, to show
how it now is and how it will be imported, just as it can now be seen in the preview.
With [Undo last operation] you can in each case undo the previous operation. Should you want
to apply the operations to all of the scans that are to be imported, activate the option “Apply to
all scans”. Caution: It is not advisable to apply the operation “New centre line” to all scans, as it
is rather an individual operation for single scans.
With [OK] you accept all of the settings for the import and return to the import dialogue box,
whereas with [Cancel] the settings will be discarded.
Scans with a preview already calculated are highlighted light-green in the scan list.
Section "Import settings"

Here you state in which unit (Scan unit) your scan data exist. This information is very
important! It is the basis for the conversion into the measurement unit. VirtuSurv can only
calculate the measurement values correctly, when you state the correct Scan unit during the
import.
With the 'resampling' you determine, whether you want to import all scan points to VirtuSurv or
if the scans are to be thinned out. Thinning out reduces the data volume. It is only
recommendable, if you scanned with a much higher resolution as is needed for the required
evaluation.
After you have entered all settings, start the import by clicking [OK]. According to the project
size (resolution, number of scans) and processor power this may take a fairly long time (up to
several hours).
When the import is finished and all scans have been imported successfully, you will get an
appropriate message, which you close by clicking [OK]. Now the scans will be displayed in the
Project Explorer. The scanner positions will also be displayed in the scan map.
VirtuSurv will automatically generate one folder per single scan in the project directory.
The name is {Name of the original scan file}-SingleScan.
The SingleScan directory contains the PVS file, which can be opened with VirtuSurv, as well
as a folder with images that are referenced in the PVS file. The PVS file itself is referenced in
the VirtuSurv project file (*.PVP). Also every VirtuSurv single scan knows which project it
belongs to.
3.6.1 Remarks on the PTG format
PTG files do sometimes contain data upside down.

Should you be unsure whether your scans will be standing on their heads and thereby must be
rotated on import, use the preview in the import dialogue box (button [Scan view
orientation]).
3.6.2 Remarks on PTX import
PTX is an ASCII- Format, which is supported by different scanner manufacturers.

Unfortunately this format is not standardised and scanner manufacturers save the format of
their PTX files differently. They will be correctly displayed in the manufacturers’ software.
Whilst the manufacturers software will display its own PTX format correctly it is difficult for us
and VirtuSurv to automatically accommodate all of the differences. We therefore highly
recommend that with this format to use the preview in the import dialogue box (button [Scan
view orientation]).
3.6.3 Remarks on Topcon import
Please note that CL3 files can only be imported, if the relevant *.ij and *.alg files are available it
the same folder.
CLR files can only be imported, if the relevant *.alg files are available it the same folder.
3.7 Exporting point clouds

An advantage of VirtuSurv, is that you do not have to import the large and ponderous laser
scan data into the CAD system in order to be able to draw with them. However, if you want to
generate point clouds from the data, in order to forward them to customers and other users for
example, you may do that with VirtuSurv.
You can export projects, scans and parts of scans into point clouds. At the moment VirtuSurv
supports the export to LAS format, PTS (ASCII) format and kubit’s point cloud format PTC.
LAS files can for example be imported into AutoCAD (starting with version 2011). With FAROs
AutoCAD plug-in "PointSense" for the evaluation of laser scanner data, PTS and PTC files can
be imported, even into older AutoCAD versions.
3.7.1 Exporting complete projects
For the export of a complete project right-click on the project name in the Project Explorer and
select the "Export all…" option from the context menu. The export dialogue box opens:
Section "Define output file”

Here you determine, into which point cloud format will be exported and if the complete project
is to be written into one single point cloud or if one point cloud is to be generated for every scan.
If you want to export only one point cloud, you are prompted for the target folder and the name
for the point cloud file after clicking [Define]. When exporting into several point clouds you only
have to state the name of the target folder and the name of the single point clouds are
generated form the name of the according scan.
Please note, that it is only possible to export into several point cloud files, when exporting into
the PTC format, since very large (more than 50 million points) PTC point clouds cannot be
handled in AutoCAD.
Section "Properties"
Determine the desired measurement unit for the point cloud to be generated.
You may thin out the data during the export by rows and columns. The default setting is "Every
Row" and "Every Column" that means everything will be exported and nothing will be thinned
out.
When clicking on [Count all points], VirtuSurv will determine how many points will be exported.
This way you can control, how large the point cloud is going to be and you can estimate if it can
still be handled in AutoCAD for example.
Click [Export] in order to start the export.
3.7.2 Export of scans and parts of scans
In order to export selected scans or certain parts of scans - in the Project Explorer – right-click
on the desired scan and select the "Export..." entry from the context menu. Please note
that the scan view has to be opened to do so. The export dialogue box for single scans opens:
Under "Define output file" you determine the target folder for the exported point cloud, enter
the file name and define the file type (LAS, PTS or PTC). To do so click [Define].
In the "Properties" section you determine the desired measurement unit for the point cloud to
be generated (Unit for export). You may thin out the data during the export by rows and
columns. The default setting is "Every Row" and "Every Column" that means everything will be
exported and nothing will be thinned out.
Section "Select area to export"

Here you can define the area which is to be exported. When clicking on [Count all points]
VirtuSurv will determine how many points lie in the selected area. This way you can estimate if
the exported point cloud will be manageable.
With the [Via box] button you start the area selection with a rectangular selection window. The
dialogue disappears and you can select the area to be exported.
With the [Via polygon] button you start the area selection via a freely definable polygon. The
dialogue box disappears and you select the area to be exported by clicking the surrounding
polygon. Caution, the first line will only be visible, when you have clicked the second point. You
close the polygon by clicking the right mouse button.
If you want to export the complete scan, you do not have to select an area, simply click
[Export].
4 3rd Party Libraries | 95
4 3rd Party Libraries
4.1 VXL Library

VirtuSurv uses the VXL library
Content of the VXL – Copyright licence:
Copyright (c) 2000-2003 TargetJr Consortium

GE Corporate Research and Development (GE CRD)
1 Research Circle
Niskayuna, NY 12309
All Rights Reserved
Reproduction rights limited as described below.
Permission to use, copy, modify, distribute, and sell this software

and its documentation for any purpose is hereby granted without fee,
provided that (i) the above copyright notice and this permission
notice appear in all copies of the software and related documentation,
(ii) the name TargetJr Consortium (represented by GE CRD), may not be
used in any advertising or publicity relating to the software without
the specific, prior written permission of GE CRD, and (iii) any
modifications are clearly marked and summarised in a change history
log.
THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND,
EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL THE TARGETJR CONSORTIUM BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND OR ANY
DAMAGES WHATSOEVER RESULTING FROM LOSS OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS,
WHETHER OR NOT ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, OR ON
96| 4 3rd Party Libraries
ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE

USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THIS SOFTWARE.
4.2 Qt Framework
VirtuSurv uses Qt
5 Licence Agreement | 97
5 Licence Agreement
This is a Licence Agreement, not a Purchase Contract, between you (herein after known as
the "Licensee") and FARO Technologies, Inc. (herein after known as the "Licensor" or
"FARO"). By the opening of the sealed program package you are agreeing to the conditions of
this Agreement. The rights to use, transfer and copy are limited by this Agreement.
1. Subject of this Agreement

The subject of this Agreement is the licensing of a FARO software package. It is delivered to
the Licensee in the form of a software program. The Licensee is not entitled to claim the source
code. The software package also includes a disc, manual and software copy protection.
The parties to this Agreement hereby agree that the program is eligible for protection and of
being protected under copyright law. The Licensor or any third party have intellectual property
rights on the goods supplied. So far as any third party is entitled to the rights, the Licensor has
the appropriate rights of use.
2. Scope of Use
The Licensee is hereby granted for the duration of this Agreement the simple non-exclusive
and personal right (licence) to use the computer programs on the disc subject to the following
conditions.
The licence for the software may not be used by the Licensee at any one point in time on more
than a single computer.
The Licensee has the right to make a backup copy of the programs. The program package and
the company names, trade marks and copyright notices contained therein, must not be
changed or altered in any way or manner. The Licensee is not entitled, in any way or form, to
copy or otherwise duplicate the software and the written material, in whole or in part in its
original or in any form merged with or embedded in any other software.
The Licensee hereby agrees not to disassemble or have disassembled the programs or any
part thereof. Should the Licensee require information on how to achieve interoperability, then it
will be supplied by the Licensor. Likewise it is not allowed to translate the written material or to
amend or to produce derivative works there from.
The Licensee is not entitled to remove the software copy protection that is bound to the
software or to bypass it in any other way.
The Licensee has to ensure that no programs, documentation or duplicates thereof can be
accessed by any third party without the express permission of the Licensor. In particular the
Licensee is not allowed, without the express permission of the Licensor, to transfer, to rent or to
loan the software to any third party. Basically, a transfer is only possible if the third party has
declared to comply with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. This must be expressly
98| 5 Licence Agreement
pointed out to the third party. With an approved transfer all the rights of use of the transferor are
forfeited.
Any further use is prohibited.
3. Warranty
The software has been developed with due care and diligence and with regard to accepted
programming methods. With the currently best available technology it is not possible to
completely rule out errors in the development of the software.
The Licensor accepts no liability for any errors and does not guarantee the specific suitability of
the software to meet the Licensee's requirements. The responsibility for the correct choice of
and the consequences arising from the use of the software as well as the intended or achieved
results lies solely with the Licensee. Warranty claims are excluded, to the extent allowed by
law.
The Licensor is in particular not liable for any indirect damages or any consequential damages
caused by errors or defects in the licensed software. There shall be no limitation of liability for
wilful intent, gross negligence and guaranteed quality.
4. Loss of the Dongle

FARO products are protected by a dongle. The dongle contains complete licensing
information. Therefore your licence is irremovable embedded in your dongle. If the dongle is
lost the Licensee is obligated to promptly report the loss of the dongle to FARO (Licensor). The
dongle (the licence) will not be replaced by FARO.
5. Duration of the Agreement

This Agreement is open ended (none expiring). The Licensee's rights to use the software will
automatically expire without notice, if he breaks any one of the conditions of this Agreement.
Upon expiration of the right to use following a breach of this Agreement the Licensee is
obligated to destroy all parts of the program package supplied with this licence, together with all
copies including any modified copies.
6. Final Provisions
Should one or more of the provisions of this Agreement be or become invalid, or should the
Agreement contain an omission, all of the remaining provisions shall retain their legal
effectiveness. The parties agree that the invalid provision shall be replaced by a valid provision
that come closes to the commercial effect intended by the parties hereto.
Any change to this Agreement must be made in writing. There are no ancillary verbal
agreements.
This Agreement shall be subject to the laws of the United States of America. The executive
place of jurisdiction for all disputes under this Agreement shall be the state of Florida, USA.
5 Licence Agreement | 99
Supplementary Provisions for Use with AutoCAD LT

FARO Software uses LTX under licence from ManuSoft (http://www.manusoft.com) for the
required software support, to be able to load and run FARO Software from within AutoCAD
LT®. You are hereby granted permission to use for an unlimited period of time, the software
LTX as an integral part of the FARO Software. However permission has only been granted
exclusively for the use of LTX in connection with the FARO Software or which it has been
developed, planned and approved. Any other use of the LTX files is expressly prohibited, and
every violation of this Licence Agreement will be prosecuted to the full extent that the law
provides. Neither ManuSoft nor any possible heir or legal successor guarantees implicitly or
explicitly the applicability or the freedom from defects of LTX when used by the end user or any
third party. ManuSoft disclaims all liability for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or
consequential damages in any connection with LTX.

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VirtuSurv

Elegant interaction with laser scan data

Support worldwide +49 715 097 97 400

Support Americas (800)-259-4014

Dear VirtuSurv users,

1 What does VirtuSurv do?

■ Survey of technical plants

2.1 System requirements

2.3 Installation of VirtuSurv's AutoCAD plug-in

before you run the VirtuSurv setup.

2.4 Installation of VirtuSurv's BricsCAD plug-in

1. Start BricsCAD. (Version 14 and higher are supported.)

3. Click on the button [Add...]

2.5 Installing the dongle

CodeMeter USB stick CodeMeter mini USB-stick CodeMeter ExpressCard

2.6 First Start up of VirtuSurv

2.7 Setting up a Network Licence

On the server computer

Activate the option "Network Server“.

On the client computer (the workstation)

2.8 Manage CodeMeter licences

Now the web browser is displayed on the CodeMeter WebAdmin page.

CodeMeter Network Licence

Column name Description

Shows how many more times the program can be used

If you have purchased a network licence, the number of

2.8.2 Release occupied network licence for other users

2.8.3 Request an activation file

a.) Manually, directly from the CodeMeter Control Center:

b) Automatically with the assistance of the "Product Manager"

■ A dialogue box opens. Click on the [Request Trial…] button.

2.8.4 Licence activation / update

2.8.5 Verifying the time clock of the dongle

An internet connection is required. Open the CodeMeter Control Center.

Now the web browser is displayed on the CodeMeter WebAdmin page.

3 Working with VirtuSurv

3.1 First steps - opening scan data

icon in the Welcome screen to access this website.

3.2 The user interface

3.2.1 The menu bar

3.2.2 The tool-bars

3.2.3 The Project Explorer

Context menu of the project

The context menu of the project

Context menu of a scan

The context menu of a single scan

Context menu of a scan view

3.2.4 The scan map

In the scan map you may zoom with the help of

3.2.5 The working window

3.2.6 The protocol window

3.2.7 The status bar

3.2.8 Windows for macros and special commands

3.3 Evaluating with VirtuSurv

3.3.1 Measurement unit, accuracy, etc

menu in order to delete all markers from the scans.

3.3.2 Measuring point coordinates

the protocol window.

these macros in chapters 3.3.4 and 3.4 .