Quick Guide to Handling RCP Point Clouds with Autodesk Recap
Discover our guide to effectively use Autodesk Recap for handling 3D point cloud data in your project.
Article By: Tom Ayre | Last Update: May 2021
In this post, I will try and explain how to open and use point cloud data in a free to use program called Autodesk Recap.
Utilising point cloud data can help you design your projects more effectively by:
- Using dense, accurate 3D data to design elements more effectively.
- The ability to quickly survey complicated features and areas.
- Import straight into a CAD program to get an idea of the space, constraints and features of an area.
What Is A Point Cloud?
Point clouds are a collection of spatial data that represent 3D objects both large and small. Point cloud data is usually acquired by utilising 3D scanning equipment that can survey hundreds of thousands of positions per second. The point cloud survey data that is produced by the scanner is usually presented in XYZ format. This can be presented as an accurate 3D representation in computer aided design (CAD) programs.
We typically use our 3D scanner to undertake measured surveys and generate point cloud data of buildings, structures, and boats. From this data we produce a 3D point cloud CAD file that we can cut and manipulate to generate drawings such as floor plans, sections, and elevations.
3D scanning and producing a point cloud file is an excellent way of quickly acquiring large volumes of accurate data. Conventional surveying methods such as hand measurements or using a total station can never beat the acquisition speed of a 3D scanner. We use a Faro S70 scanner that can pick up data at a rate of 976,000 points/second!
In the photos below you can see an example point cloud file and in the zoomed in image, how the point cloud is shown with lots of tiny dot (point) building up the bigger picture.
What Is Autodesk Recap?
Autodesk Recap, a product of the 3D design and engineering software firm Autodesk, is a program for reality capture, which is the conversion of physical world data into digital models.
The software enables users to import, manipulate, and improve reality capture data from sources like laser scans and photogrammetry. Its tools allow for aligning multiple scans, refining point cloud data, and crafting detailed 3D models.
Autodesk Recap’s main features are:
- Point Cloud Registration: Aligns multiple scans to craft an accurate 3D model of the scanned object.
- Point Cloud Editing: Filters and edits point cloud data to enhance its quality and functionality.
- Measurement and Annotation: Enables accurate measurements and annotations to document and analyze data.
- Meshing and 3D Model Generation: Produces 3D mesh models from point cloud data for improved visual representation.
- Integration with Autodesk Software: Complements other Autodesk products like AutoCAD and Revit by allowing the direct import of reality capture data.
Commonly used in fields like architecture, construction, and entertainment, Autodesk Recap uses reality capture data to optimize design processes, improve project documentation, and accurately depict real-world objects in 3D.
How Can I Open A RCP Point Cloud File?
There are many different types of point cloud file types. These include CPE, DXF, E57, POD and more.
One of the most common and easiest to produce file types is an Autodesk RCP file type. An RCP filetype can be opened in most Autodesk programs including AutoCad and Revit. The 3D scanning company who undertook the 3D scanning works should be able to provide you with an RCP file / folders.
An RCP can also be opened in a free to use program called “AutoDesk Recap” which can be downloaded here.
As of May 2021, Autodesk offer a pro and free version of the program. The free program is accessible to anyone and is confusingly accessed by downloading a pro trial version. You do not need to enter any billing information.
Once you have downloaded an installed Autodesk Recap you can now open .RCP file types.
An RCP point cloud is formed from an RCP file and a support file folder. Please see the image below:
The support folder needs to be in the same folder as the RCP file for it to be able to open correctly.
By double clicking on the RCP file you will be asked if you want to open it in Autodesk Recap, click yes and you should now see the point cloud.
Quick Guide to Using Recap
Recap has a number of free tools that can help manipulate, measure and view your point cloud however you need to. These are some of our most used tools that we use.
How to Move The Point Cloud In Autodesk Recap
Moving around a 3D object in a point cloud can be a little confusing. Luckily Autodesk have an excellent guide on how to easily navigate around the point cloud.
Here you can find out how to do things such as panning, zooming, orbiting, and flying through your point cloud.
Measurements & Markup
Recap provides a few measurement tools that will allow you to measure distances and angles in your point cloud. You can leave the measured distance displayed in your model which can be quite helpful!
Autodesk has a great guide on using the measurement, annotations and markup.
Limit Box
The limit box is a useful tool that can help restrict the size of your point cloud to an area that you want to see. For instance you could use the limit box to only show the ground floor, or the rear elevation.
Autodesk has written a useful guide on utilising the limit box which can be found here.
Window Selection Clipping
The window selection clipping tool allows you to remove any points in your point cloud that you don’t want to see. For instance the 3D scanner may have picked up neighbouring buildings or trees which you don’t want to see. With the tool you can highlight areas you do or do not want to see and clip them out so you don’t see them.
Autodesk has written a useful guide on utilising the window clipping tool, see their guide here.
Conclusion
In summary, Autodesk Recap offers significant benefits when dealing with 3D scan data, helping to transform this information into digital models. With key functionalities like Point Cloud Alignment, Data Editing, Accurate Measurements, 3D Mesh Generation, and interoperability with other Autodesk software, Recap proves useful across industries such as architecture, entertainment, and construction.
The software facilitates the opening of RCP point cloud files, offers intuitive navigation, and includes helpful features like Measurement & Markup, Limit Box, and Window Selection Clipping. This means that, regardless of your level of expertise, Autodesk Recap can boost the effectiveness of your design and documentation procedures.
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