3D Laser Scanning Services FAQ

1. Data Acquired via Laser Scanning – We conduct the 3d scan on site, capturing as many scans as necessary to fully cover the object(s) of interest.
   
   
2. Resulting Point Clouds Registered – Each scan appears as millions of points called a “point cloud”. These point clouds are “registered’ or stitched together to create a total 3D representation of the object(s).
   
   
3. Useful Information Extracted – Using various software tools, the point cloud data is converted into the desired deliverable format. This could be 3D CAD models, animations, 2D CAD drawings, or a print-to-3D ready model.
   
   
4. Result Delivered to Customer – The final result, whether it be a CAD model or animation, is delivered to the customer in a timely manner.

3D laser scanning can be used for any object – from vast power plants and office buildings to machinery and small parts – that needs to be measured or defined in a CAD Model, 3D Digital Twin, or other 3D visual or technical representation. Some examples include:

Structures & Very Large Objects

• Map out structure, piping and conduit to accurately plan changes to your facility
• Building scanning for real estate sales, remodels, and facility management.
• Create a BIM model for building renovation
• 3D Models for facility or building animations, fly-throughs, and augmented reality/virtual reality represntations
• Engineer new product prototypes

Parts

• Perform first article inspection, verifying that the part was built as designed
• Create a 3D CAD model complete with 2D drawings having only the part for reference
• Make digital modifications to parts by changing their size or adding/removing features
• Closely analyze parts for subtle flaws and fitment issues

• Speed – We can scan up to 50,000 points per seccond, vastly reducing survey and inspection time compared to alternative methods. As a result, you achieve faster project planning due to accurate as-build records and rapid turnaround of deliverable 3D models.
  
  
• Accuracy – For buildings and facilities, scan resolution is typically 0.125″ depending on the purpose of the scan. For parts, accuracy ranges from 0.0005″ to 0.040″ depending on part size, but is typically in the 0.005″ range.
  
  
• Safety – 3D scanning reduces on-site time, which can reduce exposure to hazardous environments. Scanning can be performed from adjacent areas and because of the scanner’s range, can reduce the need for scaffolding. Drone 3D scanning can completely remove you from the scan environment.
  
  
• Portability – 3D Scanners have a small footprint, are non-invasive, unobtrusive, and easy to trasport. They can be taken to remote sites and used to scan from a distance.
  
  
• Flexibility – Many 3D Scanners have a wide operating range – up to 150 meters. They collect an enormous amount of data and can capture complex environments with ease. The data recorded can be used for anything from generating 2D and 3D CAD Models to future projects.
  
  
• Cost Savings – 3D scanning is substantially faster than manual mathods, reducing labor hours and service costs. The result can reduce future rework and crew downtime, project cost, and even complex brownfield development costs. The schedule compression and generated model can bring you considerable savings.
  
  
• Risk Mitigation – Accurate 3D models reduce engineering errors, surprises during the building process, and schedule upsets. Often, smaller crews can be used. It also means fewer repeat trips and less on-site time

• You are developing an apartment complex by re-purposing an old school
• You are adding a new product line to your factory and need find space for new piping
• You have a mold that you have been using for 30 years and have no drawings for it
• You need a quick way to produce plan drawings of an old house

• Power Plant engineers
• Oil & Gas Engineers & Operators
• Green Energy Suppliers
• Builders, Developers & AEC Companies
• Facility Managers
• BIM Managers and Architects
• Aerospace Engineers (ie: NASA)
• Maritime Companies
• Machinists and Mold Makers
• Inventors, Entrepreneurs & Product Designers
• Quality Managers
• Forensic Engineers & insurance Companies
• Law Enforcement Agencies
• Artists & Sculptors
• Archaeologists
• Scientists & Researchers
• Dental and Orthopedic Doctors
• Game Designers
• Virtual World Creators
• Marketing Directors
• Many More