What are the current trends and innovations in laser scanner and structured light technologies? (2024)

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Laser Scanner

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Structured Light

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Trends and Innovations

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How to Choose

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Resources and Tips

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3D scanning is a process of capturing the shape and dimensions of an object or a scene using a device that emits or reflects light. There are different types of 3D scanning technologies, but two of the most common ones are laser scanner and structured light. How do they work and what are their advantages and disadvantages? In this article, we will compare and contrast these two methods and explore some of the current trends and innovations in the field.

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What are the current trends and innovations in laser scanner and structured light technologies? (1)

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1 Laser Scanner

A laser scanner uses a beam of laser light to scan an object or a scene. The scanner measures the distance and angle of the reflected light to create a point cloud, which is a collection of data points that represent the surface of the object or scene. Laser scanners can be handheld, tripod-mounted, or fixed on a vehicle or a drone. They can scan large and complex objects and environments with high accuracy and speed. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as being sensitive to ambient light, occlusion, and surface reflectivity. They can also be expensive and heavy to operate.

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2 Structured Light

A structured light scanner uses a projector and a camera to scan an object or a scene. The projector emits a pattern of light, such as stripes or grids, onto the object or scene. The camera captures the distortion of the pattern caused by the shape and depth of the object or scene. The scanner then uses algorithms to reconstruct a 3D model from the images. Structured light scanners can be compact, lightweight, and affordable. They can also capture fine details and textures of the object or scene. However, they also have some limitations, such as being slower than laser scanners, requiring multiple scans from different angles, and having difficulty with shiny or transparent surfaces.

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3 Trends and Innovations

The field of laser scanner and structured light technologies is constantly evolving and improving. For instance, a hybrid system combining the two methods has been developed to leverage their strengths and overcome their weaknesses. Additionally, artificial intelligence and machine learning have been employed to enhance the quality and efficiency of 3D scanning and modeling. Furthermore, new applications and markets for 3D scanning, such as healthcare, education, entertainment, and heritage preservation, have been established. Lastly, 3D scanning devices and software are becoming more accessible and affordable for consumers and professionals.

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4 How to Choose

There is no definitive answer to which 3D scanning technology is better or more suitable for your needs. It depends on various factors, such as your budget, your project scope, your desired accuracy and resolution, your available time and space, and your personal preference. You should consider the pros and cons of each method and compare them based on your specific criteria. You should also test and evaluate different options before making a final decision.

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5 Resources and Tips

If you're interested in learning more about 3D scanning technologies and how to use them, there are a few resources and tips that might help. Consider exploring online platforms and communities such as 3D Scan Expert, Scaniverse, and Sketchfab which offer tutorials, reviews, guides, and support for 3D scanning enthusiasts and professionals. Additionally, you can access free or low-cost 3D models and data sets from online libraries and repositories such as Smithsonian 3D, Google Poly, and 3D Warehouse. There are also various 3D scanning devices and software available to suit your level of experience and budget such as Microsoft Kinect, Intel RealSense, Photogrammetry, or Meshroom. Practicing your 3D scanning skills with best practices like choosing a suitable location, preparing your object or scene, adjusting your settings, and cleaning your data will help you improve your results.

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What are the current trends and innovations in laser scanner and structured light technologies? (2024)

FAQs

What is the latest laser scanning technology? ›

3D laser scanning elevates spatial capture to a new level by providing context for the whole environment. Scanning collects millions of data points in a matter of minutes, delivering highly accurate and detailed representations of landscapes, structures, and objects.

What is laser scanning technology? ›

In contrast, Laser Scanners are non-contact devices that capture millions of discrete data points to measure an object or space using laser infrared technology that produces detailed 3D images in minutes.

What is the difference between LiDAR and laser scanning? ›

LiDAR and laser scanning are terms often used interchangeably, but they can have nuanced differences based on their application context. LiDAR is a broader term that encompasses the use of laser technology to measure distances and is used in various contexts, including airborne and terrestrial applications.

What are the disadvantages of laser scanners? ›

They can scan large and complex objects and environments with high accuracy and speed. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as being sensitive to ambient light, occlusion, and surface reflectivity. They can also be expensive and heavy to operate.

What are the latest advancements in laser? ›

Another significant addition is the 2910-nanometer Acclaro laser, UltraClear, which specializes in resurfacing treatments. Regarding how these advancements have improved patient care, the field of lasers and energy-based devices is dynamic and evolving for the better.

What is the new technology in LiDAR? ›

The invention of beam steering technologies enables lidar to reach 3D space for extended use scenarios. 3D lidar is an optical perception technology that enables machines to see the world, make decisions and navigate. At present, machines using lidar range from small service robots to large autonomous vehicles.

How does structured light scanning work? ›

A structured-light 3D scanner is a 3D scanning device for measuring the three-dimensional shape of an object using projected light patterns and a camera system. The light source from the scanner head projects a series of parallel patterns onto the scan target.

What are the 5 key benefits to using laser scanning? ›

What Are the Benefits of 3D Laser Scanning
  • Fast, Accurate Data Collection. A single laser scan captures millions of 3D data points per second, providing incredibly rich detail of a building or project site. ...
  • Eliminates Revisits and Disruption. ...
  • Reduces Costs and Change Orders. ...
  • Safe and Non-Contact. ...
  • Improves Communication.

What are the applications of laser scanning technology? ›

3D Laser Scanning is used in numerous applications: industrial, architectural, civil surveying, urban topography, mining, reverse engineering, quality, archaeology, dentistry, and mechanical dimensional inspection are just a few of the versatile applications.

Is there a better technology than LiDAR? ›

Camera-Based Vision: These systems are typically less expensive than LiDAR, making them a cost-effective option for scaling AV technology. The lower cost also allows for the deployment of multiple cameras to cover various angles. LiDAR: The high precision and reliability of LiDAR come at a higher cost.

Why is LiDAR not used? ›

Musk predicted that LiDAR-based systems will make cars “expensive, ugly and unnecessary,” adding: “I think they will find themselves at a competitive disadvantage.” The truth is that size, weight, power, and cost are decreasing for vehicle navigation grade LiDAR. And they will fall further.

What are 2 disadvantages of a scanner? ›

Scanned documents may contain additional marginal noise and varying pixel intensity in the borders area . Conventional scanners are limited by their large size and cumbersome usage . These limitations hinder the efficient and accurate scanning of documents.

What are 3 disadvantages of laser? ›

Disadvantages of Laser :
  • Costly for Patients – It is costly and consequently more consumption to the patients requiring laser-based medicines.
  • Costly for specialists – ...
  • Increases intricacy – ...
  • Less uses in Dental method – ...
  • Higher forces during the cutting cycle – ...
  • Destructive –
Dec 28, 2020

Are laser scanners safe? ›

The only major safety precaution you need to take with a laser barcode scanner is this: do not deliberately shine this light at an individual's eyes, as some may be more sensitive to light, are vulnerable to seizures when exposed to flashing lights, or will wear lenses that intensify the beam.

What is the new technology to scan the body? ›

The system is called the Neko Body Scan, and it is still in development. The Neko Body Scan uses a combination of 3D imaging and AI to create a detailed map of the body. The AI software then analyzes the map for signs of potential health problems, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Which laser technology is best? ›

Alexandrite. When it comes to efficacy, alexandrite lasers beat all of the other laser technologies. Studies consistently show that alexandrite laser devices can eliminate a greater percentage of hairs compared to other machines.

What is the new technology for laser hair removal? ›

During a DiolazeXL treatment, the diode laser beam passes through the skin and targets the melanin (dark skin pigment) located at the roots of hair follicles. The light energy heats and damages the follicles, which prevents or significantly inhibits future hair growth.

What is the highest quality scan? ›

300 dpi is a standard benchmark for an excellent print. 200 dpi will still produce a decent image. 150 dpi can be acceptable if you're viewing the print from a few feet away.

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