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How to Fix Common Problems When Scanning with iPad?

Scanning with an iPad in Matterport is a great way to create 3D models, but sometimes things go wrong. Here’s a simple guide to help you fix the most common issues.

Scans Don’t Line Up Properly


Problem:

  • New scans appear in the wrong place.
  • Some scans don’t show up at all.

Why This Happens:

  • Moving too fast between scans.
  • Not enough overlap between scan points.
  • Large empty spaces (like plain white walls).

How to Fix:

  • Move slowly and let each scan finish processing.
  • Keep scans close together (1-2 meters apart).
  • It is crucial to maintain a scan point distance of 1.5 meters to 2.5 meters, not more. For example, the image below shows 160 scan points captured at the Adidas store in Dubai Mall.

     

    scan point

  • Include objects like furniture or doors to help alignment.
  • If a scan is misplaced, delete and redo it.

 


 

Blurry or Messy 3D Model


Problem:

  • The 3D model looks wavy, blurry, or stretched.

Why This Happens:

  • Scanning too fast.
  • Poor lighting (too dark or too bright).
  • Scanning too far from objects.

How to Fix:

  • Scan in good lighting, but avoid direct sunlight.
  • Keep the iPad close to objects (within 2 meters).
  • Hold the iPad steady or use a tripod.
  • After completing a scan, the Capture app automatically generates a preview. This preview is critical for assessing how well the scan aligns with the existing model. To review, click on the scan point in the space. If the scan is not aligned properly, click 'Delete Scan', redo the scan, and consider moving closer to the previous scan point to ensure optimal quality and alignment within your model.
If an area looks bad, delete and rescan from a different angle.

 


Problems with Stairs and Multi-Level Spaces


Problem:

  • Stairs or different floors don’t connect properly.

Why This Happens:

  • The iPad struggles with height changes.
  • Not enough scan points on stairs or landings.

How to Fix:

  • Scan every 2-3 steps on staircases.
  • Scan at both the top and bottom of stairs.
  • Use a tripod for stability.
  • If floors don’t connect, fix it in Matterport Workshop.

 


Mirrors and Glass Cause Problems

Problem:

  • Mirrors show floating or duplicated objects.
  • Glass makes some objects disappear.

Why This Happens:

  • The iPad can’t see through glass and gets confused by reflections.

How to Fix:

  • Scan at an angle near mirrors to avoid reflections.
  • Place objects (like a chair or tape) in front of mirrors to help the sensor.
  • Cover large mirrors temporarily if needed.
  • When you see a mirror in the space , use the app's tools to mark mirrors.

    final

 

 


Battery Dies Too Fast

Problem:

  • The iPad runs out of power quickly.

Why This Happens:

  • Scanning uses a lot of power.
  • Other apps are running in the background.
  • Long scanning sessions overheat the iPad.

How to Fix:

  • Charge your iPad fully before scanning.
  • Close other apps before starting.
  • Lower screen brightness to save battery.
  • Use a power bank or charger.
  • Take short breaks so the iPad doesn’t overheat.

 


Uploading Scans Fails or Takes Too Long

Problem:

  • The scan won’t upload, or only part of it uploads.

Why This Happens:

  • Weak Wi-Fi.
  • Large scan files take time to process.
  • The iPad goes to sleep before uploading finishes.

How to Fix:

  • Use strong Wi-Fi (avoid mobile data).
  • Stay close to the router when uploading.
  • Turn off iPad sleep mode so it stays on.
  • Restart the iPad and try again if the upload fails. 

         

 


Outdoor Scans Don’t Work Well

Problem:

  • Outdoor scans don’t align properly or look distorted.

Why This Happens:

  • Sunlight interferes with the iPad’s sensor.
  • Large open spaces don’t have enough objects to track.
  • Moving objects (cars, trees, people) cause errors.

How to Fix:

  • Scan during early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh sunlight.
  • Use shaded areas when possible.
  • Place objects (like cones or chairs) in open spaces to help tracking.
  • Keep scan points close together.

 


Final Tips

  • Start scanning from a clear reference point (like a doorway).
  • Check each scan before moving to the next spot.
  • Move slowly and steadily for better results.
  • If a scan goes wrong, delete and redo it immediately.

 


📞 Support

If you have any issues or questions, please reach out via Live Chat or email us at admin@liminastudios.com