ScanToSketch QuickStart Guide

This document explains how to begin using ScanToSketch to scan exterior walls in TOTAL for Mobile.

Document 8101  |  Last updated:  01/26/2023 MJY

There are three steps to keep in mind when using TOTAL for Mobile's ScanToSketch feature to scan exterior walls:

Continue with Step 1 below for more information on identifying areas of a property that are good candidates for scanning. You can also skip to Step 2 for more information and best practices when scanning, or jump to Step 3 for instructions on how to stitch your sketch together once you complete the scan.

Step 1:  Identify

The first step of using ScanToSketch is to identify wall sections where LiDAR scanning simplifies or speeds up the sketching process. Examples of ideal scanning opportunities include:

  • Bay windows
  • Open‑ended walls with no target for a laser measuring device
  • Walls with obstructions such as trees, shrubbery, or fencing
Keep in mind that it's a good idea to mix and match different measuring techniques. One portion might require laser measurement, while another area would be easiest to use a tape measure. Then, scan the more complex, complicated, and cumbersome sections using ScanToSketch.

Once you've identified an area of the property you want to scan, continue with Step 2 for information and best practices when scanning. Or, jump to Step 3 for instructions on how to stitch your sketch together once you complete the scan.

Step 2:  Scan

In most cases, scanning with ScanToSketch is as simple as launching the feature (  ) and walking along the wall section to capture the scan. However, there are a handful of tips and best practices to keep in mind when scanning to maximize accuracy:

  • Start with a wall section where the bottom or top edges are visible.
  • Scan slowly and steadily, and stay within 3‑16 feet of the wall you're scanning.
  • Maintain a clear line of sight with some section of the wall, floor, or ceiling line.
  • For areas that are difficult to scan, try scanning at different angles.

When you're finished scanning, continue with Step 3 for instructions on how to stitch your sketch together once you complete the scan.

Step 3:  Stitch

The last step is to stitch together the scanned wall sections using TOTAL for Mobile's sketch tools:

  1. In a sketch, tap the Modify icon (  ) to enter Modify mode. If you're using an iPhone or a similar device with a smaller screen, press the mode icon on your sketch keyboard and select Modify.
  2. Tap to select the area imported from your scan. Then, use the rotation arrows (  ) to rotate the area incrementally (45°, 90°, 135°, etc.) and snap it to common angles.

  3. Tap and drag the scanned area to move it to another location on the sketch canvas.

    When selected, green circles appear at the end points of walls to indicate what can be connected, and the circles change to solid green when they're on top of each other to indicate what will be connected when you release it.

  4. Fine‑tune your sketch by adjusting line lengths.

    Or, select a line and press the Delete key on your keyboard to remove any unnecessary lines.

That's it! Once you've fine‑tuned your sketch, continue sketching, scan an additional area and repeat steps 1 through 4 to stitch it together, or auto‑close the sketch using Pop Points.

Related Links