3D laser scanning is a technology used to digitally capture the shapes and sizes of physical objects by use of laser light. It replicates the real world image into a 3 dimensional computer image with or without contact with it. It is a technology that is growing fast because of its numerous benefits. Compared to the traditional methods of data collection, it has greatly enhanced the design process, has sped up data collection processes and reduced data collection errors.
The scanning process starts with the placing of the object to be scanned on a refined flat surface. Using special software, a laser probe is driven above the surface of this object. Through the probe, laser light is projected to the object surface. The changing distance of the object and its shape are both captured by two sensor cameras in three dimensions.
Usually, multiple scans are required to obtain adequate information required to reproduce the object. The information is then stored in a computer as cloud points (a large number of points representing all the areas on the object). The points are usually captured at a very fast rate (up to 750, 000 of them are collected per second). The next step is registration and merging of the data files into a single file prior to their conversion into a computer-aided design (or CAD) model.
As the technology continues to grow, the technique is being adopted in many different fields. One of such fields is the construction (civil engineering) industry. In this area it is utilized in among other areas, control of robots, quantity surveys, freeway redesigns and forensic documentation. It has also found a major use in the entertainment industry in creation of models for video games and movies. In this area it has been found to be much cheaper and faster compared to the traditional practice of manually creating these models.
When being used for inspection (quality assurance), the final output in the computer, is compared with the CAD nominal data of the designer. This process is referred to as to as CAD-compare to help in the detection of wear and tear effects, determination of accuracy of the final constructions, analysis of sculptured surfaces and so on. The comparison comes as a colour map deviation report and depicts the pictorial difference between the image and the CAD data.
In reverse engineering, the technology provides a fast, accurate and automated way to obtain 3D digital data. Various software applications are used in the creation of a CAD model of the required geometry. The CAD model can be modified, if necessary, to correct imperfections.
The other areas that are now embracing 3D laser scanning are cultural heritage and medicine. In cultural heritage, the technology has been used to scan several historical sites and artifacts. In medicine, it plays an important role in the design and manufacture of prostheses and dental implants.
Click here for a detailed summary of the advantages of using 3D laser scanning services, right now. You can also get more info about a reputable measurement survey company, today.
3D Laser Scanning: The Numerous Applications
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