Terrestrial Laser Scanners: A Quick Breakdown

Terrestrial laser scanners are used for a variety of industries and reasons. They are used for surveying, prototyping, quality assurance and more. This is because they ensure that processes and jobs are performed faster and with more accuracy within the construction, manufacturing, and industrial industries.

In this article, we will discuss the uses and types of terrestrial laser scanners as well as break down whether they are a good investment versus their cost.

Terrestrial Laser Scanning Uses

Even though all terrestrial scanners provide the same basic information, the level of detail, accuracy, and distance will differ from one brand and model to the next, depending on the intended purpose of the scanner. Thus, one must determine what is needed for a specific job and decide upon the correct terrestrial laser scanner for that scenario. The three main categories and uses of scanners consist of:

• Detail: There are short-range scanners that can provide surveyors with extremely accurate and detailed data of a site, ensuring that surveyors know exactly what the layout is of a certain area.
• Distance: These long-range scanners can provide basic information about a site that stretches between hundreds of metres and even kilometres. However, these scanners aren’t able to provide the level of detail that short-range scanners can.
• A Mixture of Both: Medium-range scanners can stretch as far as a few hundred metres while providing more detail than long-range scanners. This is a good happy medium between the two should you require a bit of both for a specific site.

Benefits of Terrestrial Laser Scanners

There are many benefits to terrestrial laser scanners that make them a perfect option for those looking to improve their construction or surveying business. These benefits include:

• Safety: one can easily collect accurate data of an entire site from a safe vantage point that does not require the user to enter areas where dangers such as live electricity are present.
• Quick Problem Identification: If any machines or equipment is close to needing replacing, these scanners will be able to alert you to this.
• Singular Site Visits: because of the accuracy with which these scanners capture data, surveyors are able to visit a site once and not return multiple times to ensure their readings and measurements were correct.

Terrestrial Laser Scanning Cost

Even though a terrestrial Laser scanner might seem like a serious financial investment, the long-term financial return justifies the initial expense. As it provides increased accuracy, speed of completion and ease of use, it will ensure that less time is spent on the project, which allows for an increased workload without an increased staff count.

To find out more about how terrestrial laser scanners can assist your business, contact the experts at AFGEN.