3D Laser Scanning
3D Laser scanning is a very powerful 3D imaging tool. Laser scanning has the advantage of full 3d capture of the desired area in X, Y, Z coordinates without physical contact. The scanner emits a laser beam and produces a 360 degree scan image with literally millions of 3d points forming a point 'cloud'. The speed of acquisition and the sheer density of points enables very detailed 3d mapping of complex objects and landscapes.
Once these 'point clouds' are captured, 3D modelling and meshing can be performed or extracted from the cloud.
Ideal applications of 3d scanning are:
- Building Information Management (BIM) - detailed as-builts of existing structures;
- Capturing in fine detail ornate buildings and monuments;
- Cavities and underground tunnelling data acquisition;
- Industrial applications including location of complex pipe-work;
- Forensic applications including accident site capture;
- Mining and bulk earthworks terrain modelling and very accurate volumes;
- Long distance monitoring/ change detection;
- Slope stability studies.
See an example scan of St Peter's Cathedral here: