Knowledge Base

What is 3D Laser Scanning?

The Basics

Revolutionizing Data Collection with High-Precision 3D Laser Scanning

3D laser scanning is an advanced technology that captures precise, high-resolution, three-dimensional data of objects, buildings, landscapes, and infrastructure. Using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology, 3D laser scanners emit laser beams to measure distances and create digital 3D models with millimeter-level accuracy.

This touch-free, non-destructive process is widely used in construction, engineering, architecture, manufacturing, and facility management, providing an efficient and cost-effective way to document and analyze physical environments.

3D Laser Scanning Arrival 3d

How Does 3D Scanning Work?

3D Laser scanning process - Arrival 3D
Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Full model

Applications for Lidar Scanning

  • Building Renovations
  • Modifications, Expansion, or Maintenance of a Manufacturing Plant
  • Architectural Design
  • Maintenance, Retrofitting, or Expansion of a Power Plant
  • Measure Floor Flatness and Floor Levelness
  • Create a Digital Twin 3D Model
  • Retrofitting Pipes and Equipment into an Existing Facility
  • Obtain 2D CAD Drawings for a Building Permit
  • Obtain a 3D Mesh Model
  • Update P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams)

Types of 3D Laser Scanners Used by Arrival 3D

At Arrival 3D, we utilize industry-leading 3D laser scanners to ensure high-precision data capture for various projects. Depending on the project scope, environment, and required accuracy, we deploy the following types of scanners:

Terrestrial Laser Scanners (TLS)

📌 Used For: Large-scale projects such as buildings, infrastructure, and industrial sites
📌 Key Features:

  • High-accuracy, long-range scanning
  • Captures millions of points in seconds
  • Ideal for Scan-to-BIM, as-built documentation, and facility management
    📌 Example Scanner: Leica RTC360, FARO Focus 3D, Trimble TX Series

📌 Used For: Roadway, rail, and infrastructure mapping
📌 Key Features:

  • Mounted on vehicles for fast, large-area data capture
  • Captures dense point clouds while in motion
  • Ideal for urban planning, transportation, and smart city applications
    📌 Example Scanner: NavVis VLX, RIEGL VMX Series

📌 Used For: Small objects, equipment, interiors, and confined spaces
📌 Key Features:

  • Lightweight and highly mobile
  • Real-time scanning and mesh generation
  • Ideal for reverse engineering, product design, and forensic documentation
    📌 Example Scanner: Artec Leo, FARO Freestyle, Leica BLK2GO

📌 Used For: Topographic surveys, environmental mapping, and large-area scanning
📌 Key Features:

  • Mounted on UAVs (drones) for rapid terrain mapping
  • Captures elevation and terrain models with high accuracy
  • Ideal for land development, forestry, and disaster recovery
    📌 Example Scanner: DJI Zenmuse L1, RIEGL VUX-1UAV

📌 Used For: Industrial part inspection, small object scanning, and quality control
📌 Key Features:

  • High-resolution scanning of fine details
  • Used for product design, 3D printing, and digital archiving
  • Captures textures and colors in full detail
    📌 Example Scanner: Artec Eva, Creaform HandySCAN
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Industrial 3D Laser Scanning Services

Industries We Services

  • Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC)
  • Manufacturing & Industrial Facilities
  • Heritage & Historical Preservation
  • Automotive & Aerospace
  • Surveying & Geospatial Mapping
  • Infrastructure & Transportation
  • Facility Management & MEP Engineering