Before, identifying the length, width, height, distance, and other elements of an object must be carried out manually. It requires physically going to specific points of the object’s surroundings just to list down all the needed specifications. This conventional technique can be exhausting and even dangerous in select project sites.

A lot of tools can be used in capturing object dimensions and large environments. These tools include tape measures, piano wires, and plumb bobs. They may be helpful in many applications, but they often take a lot of time just to get proper measurements.

The advancements in technology, fortunately, have paved the way for new processes and methodologies that steer away from physical inspections and others. One technology that changed everything in projects like these is the laser scanner.

An Overview of Laser Scanners

Laser scanners are now preferred by industries that want to speed up things. They are non-contact devices that can capture millions of discrete data points, which can help measure objects or spaces through laser infrared technology. The data points obtained by these devices can create detailed 3D images that project personnel can already view in just a few minutes. These images would often be filled with millions of 3D data points or a point cloud.

The working principles of laser scanners are straightforward. They would often emit a beam of infrared laser light into a rotating mirror. The light will then paint the surrounding environment. The scanner head will then rotate so that the laser will sweep across the area or object. Anything on the laser path will reflect the beam into the scanner, giving the geometry needed to be interpreted into 3D data.

These tools can generally capture measurements on vertical and horizontal planes. They can be very useful in dimensional control surveys.

Positioning the Laser Scanners

One thing about laser scanners that should be considered thoroughly is their positioning. Failure to place them in the right locations may only lead to inaccurate data. They might not also capture data points that are truly needed by specific projects.

Laser scanners, therefore, should be able to scan objects from various locations to effectively generate a complete 3D image out of a point cloud. They must also generate more measuring points if they will be carrying out a more complex scanning of an object or an area.

Horizontal and vertical shadowing effects should be avoided when carrying out laser scanning. The horizontal shadowing effect can be prevented by scanning an object more than once to generate more measuring points. A higher point density, after all, can generate a more detailed scan result. The vertical shadowing effect, alternatively, can be prevented by scanning an object or area at varying heights. Doing this prevents gaps that can mess with the resulting image.

Correct Laser Scanning On-Site

To carry out proper and correct laser scanning on-site, the contractor should first gather site information. They should also know the requirements and specifications of the project before they can proceed with the laser scanning. Upon knowing these things, the contractor should inspect the site. Afterwards, they can set up the laser scanners and other important things on site. The scanners can subsequently be connected to a device, preferably a tablet to generate a database and store the scanned file in the system.

If you require laser scanners on your project site, you can contact us at Shillong Design.