A 3D laser scanner is a device that is used to capture a site or real-life object. The data captured provides detailed information on the measurements, dimensions and colour (if desired) of real-world objects or environments.

Laser scanning technology which was once in its infancy has now found wide spread acceptance as a highly effective measurement tool. Its uptake has increased dramatically as its benefits have been realized.

Some of its benefits include a reduction in the number of operatives required in the field and the number of trips made to site. Data is collected in the minimum amount of time (For example the Z+F IMAGER® 5006 can capture approximately 50 million points in less than 4 minutes ) meaning improved efficiency and minimum disruption.

The data captured by a 3D laser scanner can then be brought to the user or designers desktop. The collected data is of such a high quality that it can be used in its raw form directly as recorded or as a highly intuitive BubbleView or intensity view. It can also be used to produce a detailed and accurate 3D model.

"Practitioners are only beginning to discover all the diverse applications where the technology can deliver value - from oil and gas, petrochemical, civil, transportation and building infrastructure to law enforcement, urban modelling, film and video games, mining, resource management and others"

                        - Bruce Jenkins - Senior Analysis and manging partner of Spart Point research

For applications such as Process Power & Marine and Civil Engineering the scanner allows the user to mitigate project risk and reduces costs by providing the designer with a detailed "as-built" knowledge of a site, improving efficiency and reducing costly and time consuming mistakes.

The High resolution data captured allows the user so far unachieved possibilities for the documentation of the smallest details. This is important for applications such as Architecture and also Accident documentation, where the user can record the scene of an accident, including e.g. vehicles deformations or brake marks allowing the identification of possible reasons for an accident and its sequence of events.

For more information on how Z+F UK and our laser scanning products can help your company, please contact us at info@zf-uk.com or telephone +44 (0) 161 8690450