Inspection
Work Planning

This is some text inside of a div block
← All terms

3D Laser Scanning

The process of capturing the three-dimensional geometry of physical assets using laser scanning technology.

Definition

3D Laser Scanning is a surveying and reality capture technique that uses laser scanners to accurately measure and record the three-dimensional geometry of physical assets, facilities or environments. The resulting point cloud data provides the basis for creating accurate digital models, supporting engineering, inspection, construction and digital twin applications.

Why It Matters

3D Laser Scanning provides accurate digital capture of physical assets to support engineering, inspection and lifecycle management.

In Practice

Modern laser scanning systems rapidly acquire millions of spatial measurements that can be processed into point clouds, intelligent 3D models or digital twins for engineering and asset management applications.

Common Misuse

3D Laser Scanning captures the geometry of physical assets, whereas a 3D Model represents that information in a structured digital form suitable for engineering and operational use.

Term Details
Synonyms:
3D Laser Scanning; Laser Scanning; Reality Capture; Point Cloud Survey
Classification:
Digital Engineering
Methodology
Intermediate
Applications

Digital Engineering; Surveying; Reality Capture.

Where It's Used

Process plants.; Infrastructure.; Construction.; Manufacturing.; Oil and gas.

References

ASTM E3125; ISO 17123

See It In VisualAIM

VisualAIM connects glossary concepts to the asset records, inspection histories, and workflows they describe.

Explore the MI Suite