Simple3D -- Description of Laser Scanners

Laser Scanners

Laser scanners work on the principle of triangulation. A laser (single point, line, or multiple lines) is projected onto a part. A video camera offset from the laser source views the laser light on the object being scanned. Points far away from the laser source show up at a different location in the video image, than points closer to the laser.

The main advantage of laser scanning is that the process is fast, non-contact, and the resulting points lie on the surface. Fragile parts can be measured, and there are no offsets to worry about. The laser scanners create a large number of points quickly. Only the parts of the object that are in the line-of-site of the scanner can be measured. Multiple scanner positions are required to cover the complete object. Some times the laser scanners work in cooperation with part turntables that allow the part to be precisely moved instead of the scanner.

Laser systems tend to have a hard time on very shiny / reflective surfaces, and the don't work that well on dark objects. Problem parts can be painted white or sprayed with a white powder to make the more visible to the laser.

Accessories

The Magnaflux SpotCheck Product is great for coating a reflective surface

Patents