Transferring a Laser Scan to 3D Models: How Does It Work?

Prized for its ability to translate scan information into computerized data models, 3D laser scanning-also known as laser surveying-has numerous uses. Many industries use laser scanners, including: police departments for crime scene recreations; engineering firms for reverse engineering and parts troubleshooting; construction companies for the evaluation of construction terrain; preservation groups for the preservation of heritage objects and structures; and architectural firms for security installations, repair, and other purposes. Read more on 3d laser scanning

Three Types of Data Expressions
If you can name an industry that benefits from editable, computerized data expressions, chances are that it has a need for laser scanning. In each case, the expressions are made possible when a company or a scan provider translate scan information into three types of expressions that contain various sub models: polygon mesh, surface, and solid CAD, each of which can be used in various capacities.
1. Polygon Mesh
Polygon mesh are abstractly composed of curved pieces that express a data set's information from a conceptual standpoint, hence their use for conceptualizing and brainstorming shapes, sizes, densities, and other elements of physical objects that will eventually become a reality. Polygon mesh are basically un-editable, limiting their use for design that will eventually be manufactured from.
2. Surface
As their name suggests, surface models are used to edit the surface of an object, making them ideal for creating artistic and organic shapes, particularly for manufacturing small to medium scale objects. Unlike polygon mesh, surface expressions are supremely editable at their surface, but cannot be directly manufactured from.
3. Solid CAD
Solid CAD are different from polygon mesh and surface expressions due to their capacity to incorporate design intent that can be manufactured from. Consequently, they are the ones that companies use to resolve defects resulting from the engineering/manufacturing processes.
The Benefits of Scanning Versus Traditional Surveying
Without the modeling capabilities offered by scanning, industries are left with the expensive, time-consuming method of using 2D and 3D drawings to express the data of objects, environments, and spaces. In addition to requiring more time to produce, these drawings also necessitate more involvement by the surveyor, driving up cost. Conversely, a scanner can gather a project's data in as little as one surveying session, translating a scan to 3D models in a matter of days,
Companies have two options for laser scanning: buying their own equipment, which could necessitate one or more pieces, or outsourcing to a scan provider. Considering the high cost of scan equipment (a top tripod model could cost six figures), companies with less than constant scan needs often choose the latter. Due to the portability of scan equipment and the universal application of scanning principles, some providers travel extensively to complete projects of all types and sizes.