LaserScanner

LaserScanner is a device or system that uses laser light to measure distances to surrounding surfaces in order to capture the shape of objects or environments. By emitting laser pulses or a continuous beam and measuring the time of flight or phase shift of the reflections, a LaserScanner computes distance to multiple points to form a three-dimensional representation, often as a point cloud or a mesh. Modern scanners may integrate with inertial measurement units, GPS, or other sensors to georeference data.

Scanning can be conducted in stationary, handheld, or mobile configurations: terrestrial (ground-based), handheld, and airborne (often mounted on aircraft, drones, or vehicles). These configurations serve different purposes, from architectural documentation and industrial inspection to forestry, archaeology, and cultural heritage preservation. Data produced by LaserScanners typically require post-processing to align multiple scans, remove noise, and convert the point cloud into CAD models or 3D meshes.

Common technologies include pulsed time-of-flight and phase-based systems. Accuracy and resolution depend on device specifications, range, surface properties, and environmental conditions. Challenges include occlusion, reflective or transparent surfaces, and data size from dense scans. Applications continue to expand with advances in automation, robotics, and digital twin workflows.