iTwin Capture Modeler is Bentley Systems' reality modelling software: it transforms photographs and LiDAR point clouds into precise and usable 3D models (maillages, orthophotos, point clouds), to power reliable digital twins from the ground survey phase.
In brief:
- iTwin Capture Modeler converts photos and LiDAR scans into 3D meshes, surface models, orthophotos and point clouds.
- Version 2026 introduces iTwin Capture Modeler Flexa free entry point, and iTwin Capture Engine, a unified processing engine (local or cloud).
- The economic model goes to « pay only when you process », without prior material investment.
- Bentley Systems partner beCAD supports sales, advice and training on this software.
What is Twin Capture Modeler?
iTwin Capture Modeler is a versatile 3D modeling software that automatically generates multi-resolution 3D models, at any scale and with great precision, from photographs or LiDAR point clouds. It is available in two versions: iTwin Capture Modeler for individual projects, and iTwin Capture Modeler Center to create an unlimited number of aggregates and deal quickly with large-scale projects, up to the modelling of entire cities.
Air photos, terrestrial LiDAR scans or drones: all data sources of reality are usable.
The new 2026: a new workflow of reality capture
In early 2026, Bentley Systems rethought its reality modelling offer to lift the « wall material » which was restraining many engineers and planners against massive data sets (LiDAR point clouds, high-resolution photographs).
iTwin Capture Modeler Flex: a free entry point
iTwin Capture Modeler Flex allows you to start a free project: import, edit and organize raw data without immediate financial commitment. Heavy processing is now separated from data preparation.
iTwin Capture Engine and Cloud: Power when you need it
Once the project is ready for production, two treatment routes are possible: iTwin Capture Engine on your own hardware (ideal for projects with high security and offline processing requirements), or iTwin Capture Cloud Services for unlimited computing power and AI-driven analysis on city-scale models. Deliverables include high fidelity reality meshes and Gaussian flats, directly exploitable in design and analysis tools.
Multi-resolution grids capable of representing an entire city.
The 10 key points of the Twin Capture Modeler
| Key point | In practice |
|---|---|
| 1. Multi-source capture | Photographs and/or clouds of LiDAR points transformed into detailed 3D models. |
| 2. Free entry point | iTwin Capture Modeler Flex allows to import and organize data without initial cost. |
| 3. Local or cloud processing | iTwin Capture Engine (clean equipment) or iTwin Capture Cloud Services (unlimited power). |
| 4. Fast parallel processing | Create aggregates using up to two engines simultaneously. |
| 5. Multiple livables | Realistic multi-resolution meshes, 2.5D surface models, orthophotos, dot clouds. |
| 6. Online dissemination | Networking billions of triangles optimized for streaming and web publishing. |
| 7. Measurement tools | High precision analysis and measurement directly on reality meshes. |
| 8. Automatic classification | Automatic 3D learning to detect, locate and classify captured objects. |
| 9. Interoperable formats | Export to various GIS formats, easy integration into all workflows. |
| 10. Flexible business model | « Pay only when you treat » — the software cost follows the actual production. |
From field survey to usable model, without chain failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is iTwin Capture Modeler for?
It is used to transform LiDAR photographs and data into accurate 3D models (mailing, orthophotos, dot clouds) to add a reliable real context to infrastructure design, engineering, construction and operation projects.
What is the difference between iTwin Capture Modeler and iTwin Capture Modeler Center?
iTwin Capture Modeler is suitable for individual projects, whileiTwin Capture Modeler Center creates an unlimited number of aggregates to deal quickly with large-scale projects up to the entire city scale.
What is Twin Capture Modeler Flex?
This is the new free entry door introduced in 2026: it allows to import, edit and organize raw data without financial commitment, before choosing a processing method (local with iTwin Capture Engine, or cloud with iTwin Capture Cloud Services).
Does iTwin Capture Modeler work with drone data?
Yes. The software accepts aerial photographs from drones as well as terrestrial or aerial LiDAR scans, and combines them to produce consistent 3D models.
Why choose iTwin Capture Modeler with beCAD?
As an approved Bentley Systems partner, beCAD provides consultancy, sales and training services to research offices, surveyors and infrastructure companies on iTwin Capture Modeler and all Bentley solutions (MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, OpenBuildings Designer, OpenPlant, AutoPipe Vessel, Synchro 4D...). Our team helps you integrate reality capture into your digital twin workflows.
