Epic Games has released RealityScan 2.1, an update to its 3D scan software focused on workflow automation, expanded LiDAR support, and a series of smaller quality-of-life improvements aimed at professional production environments.
This release places a strong emphasis on scalability and integration, positioning RealityScan for workflows that involve large datasets and automated pipelines. The following overview examines the key features introduced in this update.
Automation as a Core Focus
- Command Line Interface (CLI): One of the main additions in RealityScan 2.1 is the introduction of a Command Line Interface (CLI), which allows users to script and batch-process common tasks. This can be particularly useful for studios managing multiple scans or repetitive operations, such as image alignment, mesh generation, and model export, without requiring manual interaction.
- Templating System: The update also introduces a new Templating System, replacing the previous reporting framework. This system enables users to automatically extract structured information from projects and generate reports or data files, supporting more consistent documentation and downstream processing.
- Remote Command plugin: In addition, RealityScan 2.1 includes a new Remote Command plugin, allowing the software to be controlled remotely over a network using REST or gRPC. The plugin comes with Python examples and full Linux support, making it easier to integrate RealityScan into automated or server-based production pipelines.
Expanded LiDAR and SLAM Support
- SLAM-based scanner data: RealityScan 2.1 extends its scanning capabilities with support for SLAM-based scanner data. Users can now import SLAM trajectories, images, and point clouds and combine them with traditional photogrammetry projects or large LiDAR datasets. This approach enables faster data capture with live positional feedback and helps address scenarios where photo-only scans struggle, such as uniform or low-detail surfaces.
- LAS and LAZ formats: The update also adds support for classified point clouds in LAS and LAZ formats. By using classification data during processing, users can selectively include or exclude elements, which can improve mesh quality and reduce unnecessary processing.
Additional Workflow Improvements
Alongside the major updates, RealityScan 2.1 introduces several smaller enhancements:
- The ability to render from the original camera position with matching lens distortion, supported for both textured and normal outputs
- A new color-coded UV checker map to assist with evaluating UV layouts
- Additional export options for registration workflows using the OpenCV format
Conclusion
With RealityScan 2.1, Epic Games continues to position the software as a scalable solution for professional 3D scan workflows. The focus on automation, remote control, and expanded LiDAR support reflects a broader shift toward integrated and pipeline-friendly tools, particularly for teams working with large datasets or complex capture scenarios.
To find out more, visit the Epic Games website.
-article by G. D’Ambrogio
