3D Laser Scanning: Benefits and Applications

3D laser scanning is a non-destructive, non-contact measurement process that uses laser light to digitally capture the shape of physical objects. A scanner emits laser light that's reflected off an object's surface back to the sensor. The sensor then uses a complex algorithm to calculate how much light is displaced, and the resulting data points end up producing a 3D digital replica of the target object.

In other words, 3D laser scanning is a method of recording an object's exact size and shape into digital form as an accurate three-dimensional representation of said object. Accordingly, laser scanners are ideally suited to the measurement and 3D inspection of all types of surfaces and their geometries, which usually require a massive amount of data for accurate capture.

As previously stated, there are many benefits of 3D laser scanning for any operational process that relies on accurate measurement. Here's a more comprehensive breakdown:

There's little doubt that conventional vision systems have been and continue to be instrumental in industrial imaging applications, but 3D laser scanning offers some distinct advantages. For example, vision systems typically capture images in 2D and often cross-reference different images to produce a 3D image. 3D laser scanners actually capture depth information, thus offering a comprehensive three-dimensional capture of the target object's geometry.

This distinct capability is very important for applications that demand depth precision, such as quality control applications, manufacturing, and design processes. Of course, the choice of an adequate system ultimately comes down to applicational requirements.

In production and manufacturing, 3D laser scanners are usually integrated inline or near-line. Inline means the scanners are integrated into the production line itself, while near-line means they’re placed adjacent to the production line.

Inline 3D scanning solutions excel at providing real-time quality assurance and control by detecting defects—deviations from the desired, pre-set specifications—immediately as the parts and components are being produced. Near-line systems are slightly removed, which grants them the ability to handle batch samples for quality without interrupting the main production line.

Defect detection remains one of the greatest benefits of 3D laser scanning solutions. Since they use light (instead of pictures), they can identify defects that would be invisible to the naked eye. This often includes small dents, warping, or incorrect dimensions of the manufactured part.

Early detection is actually quite important, as it helps mitigate numerous problems before they escalate into costly mistakes. For example, defect detection might indicate a problem with the production line, leading to a more preventive maintenance approach that can reduce the costs associated with unplanned downtime.

Early defect detection also reduces waste and the need for rework (and the necessary resources) while ensuring that only the high-quality, per-spec products make it to the next step in the production chain. This, in turn, ensures that the products meet the required standards, thus maintaining their quality and customer satisfaction.

KEYENCE is the world's leading provider of precision measurement technologies, which include laser displacement sensors, laser micrometers, 3D scanning solutions, and many other technologies used in manufacturing-specific applications across numerous industries.

If you're looking to enhance your operational processes with highly accurate and effective 3D scanning solutions, don't hesitate to contact KEYENCE and inquire about the possible integrations of our equipment with your existing production lines.