What is a 3D Laser Scanner?
Wikipedia defines a 3D scanner as “A 3D scanner is a device that analyzes a real-world object or environment to collect data on its shape and possibly its appearance (i.e. color). The collected data can then be used to construct digital, three dimensional models useful for a wide variety of applications.” The 3D scanner collects a massive amount of data using an active method of collection. It uses emitted light and reflective time of flight technology to capture remote objects. This is the same technology as reflector less total stations. Cameras are also implemented in 3D scanners to gather color information as well as developing a framework for each scan. With the use of the structured light and the data captured by the offset camera the scanner is capable of capturing dense point clouds very rapidly.
