How to prepare for SiteWalk

This article will help you get started using SiteWalk on your project. You can use SiteWalk for projects that use BIM models, as well as 2D-only projects, in case you are working exclusively with drawings.

We cover the required equipment and best practices for the best results from your SiteWalks. You can use SiteWalk for:

• Quick and easy visual documentation of the progress or as-built
• 360° image registration, integrated with Dalux Field features 
• Compare different points in time or with the BIM model

Required equipment

Before you can start with SiteWalk, you will need the right equipment. SiteWalk can only be used with a supported camera, as listed below.

Supported camera:

• Insta360 X5 - Recommended by Dalux, requires an SD card, e.g. a MicroSD V30
• Insta360 X4* - Requires an SD card, e.g. a MicroSD V30
  
• Ricoh Theta Z1
• Ricoh Theta X - Please note this camera will be discontinued by the end of 2025 beginning of 2026.

*Please note the Insta 360 X4 Air is not supported.

Other equipment:

Safety helmet: The construction helmet should fulfill your local security guidelines.

Camera Mount: A 1/4" camera mount that lets you install the camera on your helmet, examples include:

• GoPro camera mount (adapter for 1/4" required)
• Camera mount adapter

Mobile device: The device should support the Dalux mobile app on iOS or Android.

Power bank/extra batteries (optional): We recommend carrying either a power bank or extra rechargeable batteries for your camera model.

We recommend avoiding lens guards with Insta360 cameras to prevent glare and distortion. If you use one, select the 'Lens Guard' option in camera settings and ensure it is installed properly to avoid blocking the lens.

Model and drawing quality

You can use SiteWalk for both BIM projects and 2D-only projects. The route placed on your drawings will depend on the type and quality of your data.

Here are some tips for the best outcome in 2D-only projects:

• Use a high-quality architectural floor plan of a single floor.
• Ideally, your drawing clearly shows objects like walls, windows, doors, and other elements.
• The drawing should include its scale information in Dalux.
• Make sure that you only have one plan per drawing and no overlaying versions in case of renovation projects.

Do NOT use: 

• MEP drawings
• Reflected ceiling plans
• Orthophotos
• Drawings with multiple levels
• Drawings with many annotations and overlays.

Good example for SiteWalk

If you have 3D models in your project, follow these guidelines:

• Use an architectural model of the building that includes objects like walls, windows, doors, and other elements.
• Make sure that your levels are created at the correct height and that your drawings are mapped accurately in scale and orientation.
• Avoid multiple design versions in the same building. You can link different discipline models to one building, but not different versions of the same design, such as pre- and post-refurbishment.
• Avoid general geometrical types in your BIM model, such as IFCElementProxy. Types like these can lower the accuracy of the result.

Planning your route and schedule

Regular SiteWalks allow you to track the progress of your project throughout your construction phase. For easy comparison and thorough documentation, it is a good idea to perform SiteWalks in set intervals of

• High-activity (MEP installations, interior finishing, etc.): weekly
• regular activity (concrete works, facade, etc.): bi-weekly
• low activity (finished/paused construction zones): monthly

Shorter intervals in high-activity areas ensure proper documentation and reduce the risk of missing critical information.

Plan your route(s) accordingly. Walk approximately the same route each time to easily compare your images. Follow these guidelines to plan your routes for the best results:

• Start and finish - Select easily identifiable locations on the drawings (e.g., doorways) that are at least 10 meters apart. Make sure you select the correct points on the drawing.
• Stay on the same floor - You can only record one floor per video. Stay on the same floor and start a new recording on a new floor.
• Know where to go - The route is easier if you know where you are going. Take a look at the construction site first and identify the places you want to visit. Be consistent with your paths, as this makes it easier to compare images later.
• Revisit locations - It is always a good idea to walk the same area twice. This helps the system recognize where you have been and improves the path of the SiteWalk.