3D Laser Scanning Limitations

Quality and Inspection Process Knowledge

3D Laser Scanning limitations are that the objects surfaces to be digitized must be within "line of sight" of the instrument. Complex internal geometries, such as hole features, threades internal or external features of size, trapped or enveloped volumes or any part which has internal features not descernable by the laser scanning equipment. As of this writing, 3D laser scanning instruments are typically larger than 12" x 12". There are other methods available to digitize a object. Other data collection instruments available are: Coordinate Measuring Machine CMM, physical sectioning, destructive scanning, photography, X-Ray, CT-Scan, and MRI.

Material which may be scanned with current technology include clay, wax, rubber, plastic, bone, wood, ferrous metal, nonferrous metal, glass, stone, and ceramics.