3D laser scanning simply refers to the use of LIDAR or phase-based technology to capture the physical dimensions of an object. This nondestructive, non-contact scanning technology makes use of laser light to capture the sizes, shapes and other features of an object under inspection. This avant-garde technology eliminates the needs for people to physically climb, roam, and do other activities before capturing the dimensions of any structure or object.
Irrespective of the surface features and size of the object, this innovative technology can be effectively used to produce accurate and precise information about it. Notably, the technology entails capturing the object from a lot of positions before the precise and complete model of the scanned structure can be effectively produced.
What tool is used for 3D laser scanning?
Generally, a 3D laser scanner is required for 3D laser scanning. This scanner is a tool that evaluates the detailed dimensions of an object and its surrounding to produce comprehensive and precise information about their shape, texture, color and other characteristics.
The 3D laser scanner makes use of a laser beam to roam the space and measures millions of points on the object. Notably, as much as 750,000 points can be captured by the scanner within a second. After moving around the object, data is acquired by the scanner and sent to a computer. The formats of the data provided include AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, Navisworks, AutoCAD MEP, and so on. Ultimately, there is a creation of the CAD model of several point cloud data files.
From quality control to industrial design, reverse engineering and many more, there are various areas in which the 3D scanners are important tools.
Advantages of 3D laser scanning
When compared to other methods used for measuring the dimensions of objects, 3D laser scanning offers certain advantages. A few of these advantages are:
- It produces accurate details of the object or structure
- It is a safe, non-intrusive method for measuring the physical shape of an object
- It lowers the cost of capturing an object
- It is fast since the scanner only roams around the object to capture its dimensions within a few minutes or hours based on its size
Common uses of 3D laser scanning
Some common uses of 3D laser scanning include but not limited to:
- Collection of geospatial data
- Reality capture of existing conditions survey
- Prefabrication
- Virtual design and construction
- Construction verification, scheduling, sequencing and simulation
- Facility coordination
- Historical preservation
- Architectural documentation
- Design engineering for expansion or upgrade of facilities
Although 3D scanning can be costly, it is cost-effective in the long run as it ensures that details of the object can be captured without the needs for many individuals working on it.
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