3D Laser Scanning
3-D laser scanning is a non-contact, rapid data collection surveying technology.
A 3D scanner is a device that analyzes a real-world object or environment to collect data on its shape and colour.The collected data can then be used to construct digital, three dimensional models useful for a wide variety of applications.
Rapid 3D Laser Scanning accurately measures and captures a “point cloud” of 3D co-ordinates which may be used to form a full digital model or as a record for analysis at a later date.
Laser scanning technology is fast, measuring 50,000 points per sec with a 600m range to an accuracy of 4mm. Laser scanning is changing the way surveyors work and collect data.In the past, the survey of a building or structure required the use of a Total Station to record chosen three-dimensional positions. These would then be processed in CAD and used to generate elevations. With laser scanning this has fundamentally changed.
The scanner records three-dimensional positions at a predetermined resolution (1mm – upwards) over a chosen area, generating thousands of high-accuracy coordinates. The surface of a scanned structure is then represented as a dimensionally accurate ‘point cloud’ in full 3D. Laser scanners are increasingly being used for conventional topographic surveys where access is limited – busy motorways and highway junctions – or where man access is too dangerous – unstable rock faces, underground stopes, petroleum or gas storage areas etc.
Rapid surveys of road traffic accident sites provide a complete 3D model of the crash which can be accessed at any time after the event, allowing detailed measurement and analysis using CAD. Preservation of national monuments and archaeology by 3D laser scanned record is also quite common.
Sectors Utilising 3D Laser Scanning:
- Archaeological Heritage Conservation
- Civil Engineering
- Architectural Surveys
- Mining
- Forensic Investigation\
- Offshore Oil, Gas and Marine
- Decommissioning
- Nuclear Inspection
- Games VFX & Film Industry