For some years, 3D laser scanning has been revolutionizing the ways things are documented and planned in archaeology, architecture and industry. The three-dimensional visualization of buildings and complex shapes enables a more accurate, reliable and faster working method.
By means of so-called reference spheres, which act as orientation points for the scanner, several scans can be connected with each other to create a digital image, for instance of a complete floor of a building. Using a conventional CAD program, objects and designs can be added to the 3D images created by the scanner. This makes planning far easier.
Even the new construction of Festo’s Scharnhausen Technology Plant was planned with the help of an additive production method (3D printing). In a miniature factory, employees were able to get an initial impression of their future workplace whilst construction was still under way. When it came to modernizing the electronics manufacturing, Festo opted for the 3D laser scanning. This enabled the future workstations to be planned quickly and, at the same time, in detail. Surprises after the planning phase, expensive adjustments and deadline extensions were avoided because the technical building systems were planned on the basis of real data, and missing dimensions were able to be determined quickly and easily.