Industrial laser measurement is a modern method that uses laser technology to precisely measure objects. The technology is used in manufacturing, construction and engineering. The basic element of a laser industrial measurement system are laser scanners. Data from the scanning is recorded in the form of point clouds. During further processing using specialised software, the point cloud is transformed into a 3D model and further analyses of the scanned object are carried out.
Why the Industrial Laser Measuring Is Carried Out?
Industrial laser surveys are performed because of their high accuracy, speed, safety, versatility and ability to be performed in harsh environments. Laser scanners are less sensitive to changing lighting conditions. This allows them to be used in a variety of environments, including areas with limited visibility.
The optical sensor of the laser head allows measurements with an accuracy of up to 0.01 millimetres. Industrial laser systems are great for measuring delicate or difficult-to-measure surfaces. This significantly speeds up design work. A good example of the use of lasers in heavy industry is the scanning of machine components or steel structures. In industries requiring precision, laser scanners provide high accuracy and precision of the 3D model.
Laser measurement technology also allows the rapid scanning of large objects, such as building facades, production halls or infrastructure structures. In the construction industry, laser distance measurements provide an accurate representation of the actual state of a structure. The 3D model obtained from the point cloud facilitates the planning of subsequent work steps, avoids collisions and minimises risks.
In reverse engineering, laser technology makes it possible to create accurate CAD models based on existing objects. This is the basis for further design work, modifications and, ultimately, restoration.
The accuracy and speed of laser measurement influences the optimisation of design and production processes.
Applications of Industrial Laser Measurement
Industrial laser measurement is widely used in many industries such as:
- manufacturing
- construction,
- reverse engineering.
In the manufacturing industry, laser technology allows precise measurement of components, for quality assurance. This is particularly important in industries such as automotive or mechanical engineering, where even minimal deviations from the standard can affect the functioning of the entire system.
In the construction industry, laser technology is used to scan large objects such as buildings, production halls or other engineering structures. This enables accurate mapping of existing structures and facilitates inventory and operation, upgrades or renovations. In infrastructure projects, 3D scanners allow a significant reduction in measurement time. What takes several days with traditional methods is realised in as little as a few hours thanks to laser scanning using unmanned aerial vehicles!
Reverse engineering is another area where industrial laser measurement is gaining ground. Creating digital CAD models from physical objects is extremely useful for old machines for which technical documentation or original spare parts are no longer available.
Benefits of Precision Laser Industrial Measurement
One of the biggest advantages of this technology is the speed of measurement. Laser scanners are able to collect huge amounts of data in a short period of time, significantly speeding up design and production processes.
Precision is another important advantage of laser measurements. Laser scanners are capable of measuring to micrometre accuracy, which is essential in industries requiring high precision. The technology is non-contact and therefore non-invasive and safe.
At Proram, we use Hexagon Metrology industrial laser scanners such as the Absolute Scanner AS1. This is a highly rated 3D laser scanner that is widely used in industry. Using the Absolute Arm, the accuracy of the entire scanning system is just 39 microns.
Laser measurements contribute to cost savings. Accuracy and speed ultimately translate into lower production costs and greater efficiency.
The Future of Laser Industrial Measurement
We are living in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Laser technology in industrial measurement is constantly evolving and its future looks promising. One important trend is the further automation of measurement processes. More and more laser systems are being integrated with robots and CNC machines. Automation speeds up processes and eliminates the risk of errors related to the human factor.
Another important development is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into measurement systems. AI algorithms can analyse the collected data in real time. This improves decision-making and allows better management of production processes. AI-assisted systems can also predict potential problems by identifying patterns that could lead to defects. Combined with point cloud technology, AI enables advanced data analysis, and this translates into optimised planning and production.
