LaserScanningKonfokalmikroskop

LaserScanningK... is a term used to denote a family of laser scanning technologies and platforms designed to capture precise three-dimensional measurements of real-world scenes. It encompasses hardware such as LiDAR sensors, structured-light scanners, and Time-of-Flight devices, as well as software pipelines for data processing, registration, and analysis.

Operating principle: A laser emits pulses or scans a scene; the return signal is used to calculate distance to surfaces, generating a dense point cloud that represents geometry. Depending on the system, scanning can be stationary or mobile, with rotating mirrors or solid-state scanners enabling 360-degree coverage.

Data processing: Raw point clouds are filtered, aligned (registering scans from multiple viewpoints), meshed, and converted into models such as textured meshes, CAD-compatible surfaces, or digital elevation models. Advanced workflows include SLAM for autonomous navigation and multi-sensor fusion.

Applications: LaserScanningK... finds use in surveying and mapping, construction and civil engineering, architecture, archaeology, mining, forestry, robotics, autonomous vehicles, industrial inspection, and virtual or augmented reality content creation.

Advantages and limitations: The approach offers high accuracy and rapid data capture over large areas, with non-contact measurement. Limitations include sensitivity to weather and lighting conditions for some sensors, high data volumes, equipment cost, and the need for skilled processing. Post-processing typically requires specialized software and substantial computational resources.

History and development: Early laser scanners emerged in the 1960s–1970s, followed by steady improvements in range, resolution, and portability. Modern systems frequently integrate GPS/IMU data, cloud-based processing, and automated feature extraction to streamline workflows.