LASER SCANNER LS

Th

e m

eas

ure

of

succ

ess

www.faro.com

Recording reality's digital fingerprint

2

Technology behind the FARO Laser Scanner LS..............................3

Modular design.................................................................................4

Software...........................................................................................5

Colour Scans.....................................................................................6Forensic & Accident research...........................................................7

Characteristics..................................................................................8Specifications....................................................................................9Industrial Applications....................................................................10

Architecture & Construction..........................................................11

Simulation & Inspection.................................................................12

Automotive.....................................................................................13

Customer Support..........................................................................15

FARO Product Family......................................................................16

Contents

Scanning of classic aeroplanesat Duxford Air Museum, England.

The FARO Laser Scanner LS works by sen-ding an infrared beam into the centre of

a rotating mirror. This deflects the laser on avertical rotation around the environmentbeing scanned, the beam is then reflectedback into the scanner and the "Phase Shift"of the infrared is measured giving thedistance of the laser from the object. Usingencoders to measure the mirror rotationand the horizontal rotation of the LaserScanner, the X,Y,Z coordinates of eachpoint can be calculated. Once a scan hasbeen made the user can easily navigate a3D view where the entire scan data can beinspected and analysed. The on-board PCenables the scanner to be operated withoutthe use of a laptop.

To measure distance FARO's Laser Scan-ner LS uses „Phase Shift“ technology as

3

opposed to „time of flight“ distance recor-ding. This means that instead of a singlepulse being reflected and the time of flightbeing measured, constant waves of varyinglength are projected. Upon contact with anobject they are reflected back to the scan-ner. The distance from the scanner to theobject is accurately measured by measuringthe phase shifts in the waves of infraredlight.

The Laser Scanner LS splits the laser beaminto 3 component parts operating on 3 dif-ferent modulation lengths 76m, 9.6m and1.2m, as shown in the wave modulationdiagram on the next page. The distance ofthe reflecting object from the scanner isdetermined by identifying the location oofthe reflection in the 1.2m cycle. Firstly thecycle the reflection occured has to be iden-

Focus:on the technology

4

Phase shift laser measurement

tified as the beginning of each cycle willbegin the distance reading again. I.e. adistance of 2m measured only on the 1.2mmodulation would only read as 0.8m as themeasurement was in the second cycle butthere is no longer modulation length toindicate this. This is known as inambiguity.For example a reflection from 13 meters willregister within the 76m range as shown bythe light green area on the diagram. This iswithin the second cycle of the 9.6m rangeas shown in light red, and The accuracy isachieved by measuring in the 2nd cycle ofthe 1.2m range after the beginning of thesecond cycle of the 9.6m range. Due to the76m modulation length the FARO LaserScanner LS is capable of measuring up to76m without inambiguity. Points measuredbeyond 76m may be pushed back by theuser through the software command.

The main advantage of the phase shifttechnology is the speed of point capture,120,000 points per second, compared toapproximatly 4,000 points per second fortraditional "time of flight based scanners".

The use of 3 varied ranges means a hig-her degree of accuracy can be achieved

over a greater distance as the specificrange of the target is measured with aresolution of 17bit or 0.58mm.

The scanner consists of four interchan-gable component parts. The laser modu-le, the mirror module, PC module andbase module. These modules can beexchanged and upgraded by the usergiving a flexibile solution for all applica-tions

FARO Software: the next dimension of

digital photography

The scanner is capable ofrecognising the shade of

the reflected surface. Thisbuilds a 360° point cloud withgrey scale which results in ablack and white image similarto a 3D photograph.

The Laser Scanner LS is linkedto FARO Scout software whichallows the scan settings to beadjusted i.e. resolution, scanspeed, scan storage location,user identification or even toselect a smaller area to be scan-ned rather than the full 360 x320 degrees.

With the click of one buttonthe scan will begin and thecaptured data is displayed liveon screen. Once the scan is

complete the user can navigate the scanin 2D or 3D views. In 3D the user can flythrough the point cloud data taken. Aquick view is also possible which dispalysa spherical view from the scanners per-spective giving a good overview of thedata captured.

In order to capture objects out of theline of sight of the laser scanner, registra-tion spheres can be placed within thearea to be scanned and the device repo-sitioned. Scans taken from a differentviewpoint can then be taken. Once com-plete the registration spheres can berecognised within different scans and thescans linked together to complete the 3Dimage.

6

The 3D world in colour

Through the addition of a colour op-tion, digital images can be overlaid ontop of the point cloud giving a colouredimage, which can also be seen in the 3Dview, for enhanced realism. This offersnumerous advantages in different appli-cations such as the identification of spe-cific pipes in a complex oil refinery or dif-ferent rock types in a mine.

FARO Scene software is the next step,expanding the functionality of Scout byenabling tomography, data filtering andallowing the user to export data in diffe-rent CAD formats such as IGES, DXF andAutoCAD. Basic features such as planesand pipes can be recognised and severalscans can be registered allowing multipleviews of a scanned environment.

The colour option camera

7

Focus on applications - Forensicscience & Accident investigation

Digitising of Crime and Accident scenesis the next step in the analysis of

reconstructing events following a crime orincident. Important factors to be conside-red are non intrusion, speed of scan andquality of the scan data produced. Usingthe Faro Laser Scanner LS a crime scenecan be digitised in minutes rather thanhours, this provides high quality 3D datawhich can be reviewed by experts overlonger periods of time. As soon as a crimescene is made available to a scanningteam the entire area can be captured aspoint cloud data. The positioning of ob-jects and surfaces within the scan can beseen in a 3D environment giving the usera perspective which cannot be achievedthrough conventional recording methodssuch as digital photography. From this 3Ddimensional viewpoint bullet trajectoriescan be calculated and line of sight can bedemonstrated. This means that once ana-lysed the personal viewpoints of eachindividual involved can be evaluatedgiving an accurate insight into thesequence of events as the crime was com-mitted.

As the technique of Laser Scanning isnon- contact the crime scene can be cap-tured with minimal intrusion. This meansthat the scanning of the crime scene willnot interfere with the object being scan-ned. The addition of the colour optionavailable for the Laser Scanner LS enablescolourization of the point cloud data

enhancing the realism of the image andenabling easier recognition of blood pat-terns and details in the event scene.

The HE40 Laser scanner can be used inany indoor environment where a laptopcan be operated and the HE80 modelwith its more powerful laser can also beused outdoors, if a lower powered laser isrequired for a specific application themodular nature of the scanner allows thelaser module to simply and quickly beexchanged making the scanner flexiblefor multiple environments and conditions.

8

Laser Scanner LS -Caracteristics

P.C. module: On board P.C.with hard drive allowingscans to be taken and storedwithout the use of a laptop.

Laser module: Interchangable lasermodule offering either 22mW or10.5mW strength lasers.

Mirror module: Contains a motorpowering the rotating mirror whichreflects the laser at 90 degrees.

Simple operation: Once scan settings are established one pressof the start button is all that isneede to begin a scan

Status lights: LED displaythe status of the scanner,when all display green thescanner is ready for use

Tribrach:Standard tribrachmounting.

Simple connectivity: Onecable provides both powerand laptop communicationto the scanner. The porta-ble battery pack gives totalportability and can also beused to power the laptop

Rotating head: The head ofthe scanner rotates 360degrees giving 320 x 360degree field of view

9

Ranging UnitDistance: 35m (HE40), 70m (HE80)

Resolution: 17 Bit Range / 9 Bit Intensity

Measurement Range: 120 kHz

Linearity Error: 3 mm at 10 m1)

Laser (Optical Transmitter)Laserpower (CW, average): HE 40 10.5 mW, HE 80 22 mW

Wavelength: 785 nm

Beam Divergence: 0.25 mrad (0.014°)

Beam Diameter (at exit): ±3 mm, circular

Deflection UnitVertical Field of View: 320°

Horizontal Field of View: 360°

Vertical Resolution: 0.009° (40.000 3D-Pixel on 360°)

Horizontal Resolution: 0.00076° (470.000 3D-Pixel on 360°)

Max. vertical scanning speed: 3000 rpm

Scanning Time at 4450x2500 measurement points: ca. 104 sec.

Handling of DataInternal PC: Pentium III with 700 MHz, 256 MB RAM

40GB Harddisk; Windows 2000, Windows XP

Data Storage local: on internal hard disc drive (for most resolutions)

remote: via Ethernet on external PC or laptop

Data Transfer: online during scanning via Fast-Ethernet

1) measured on a non moving orthogonal Kodak 84% reflectivity reference paper in averging mode in 1 cm steps.

Laser Scanner LS- Specifications

10

IndustrialApplications

In production environments where com-plex piping structures are in place 3D

planning and design of alterations to theplant make the alterations as efficient aspossible. As pipes may be be colouredaccording to what is being carried withinthem, for example gas or liquid, hot orunder high pressure, the addition of thecolour option enables the user to moreeasily identify the correct pipe section fromthe scan data. The colourized point cloudcan be seen in this screen shot from FAROScene software.

Often when a new product is introducedthe entire pipe system has to be replaced.If the exisiting status is first documented inpoint cloud data and if necessary reverseengineered into CAD, then potential colli-sions of new structures can be assessed andthe installation can be planned based on

actual existing structures minimising anysurprises where existing structures differfrom the plans.

In potentially hazardous environmentswhere special safety training is requiredminimal disruption to the working area isof the highest consideration. The LaserScanner LS with its "phase shift" technolo-gy is up to 100 times faster than traditional"time of flight" based scanners. This ena-bles the user to quickly capture the datarequired, also the software requires theuser to merely set the scan parameters andwith the click of one button the scanbegins. This ease of use means that thescanner can be used with minimal trainingand minimises disruption to the produc-tion environment and potential contami-nation of the hardware.

Point Cloud Data CAD Data

11

Architecture & Construction

In the field of Architecture and Construc-tion the Laser Scanner HE80 has the

advantage, through its 70m range, 28million points per scan and 120,000points per second scan rate, of accuratelycapturing large point cloud data for theinternal reconstruction of entire buildings.

Using registration spheres scans can belinked to one another to construct 3Dviews of specific areas or entire buildings.

Over years buildings may undergo ma-jor alterations and in many instances thesealterations are not recorded in the originalconstruction plans. For example door po-sitions or windows may change. Whenplanning a future addition or alteration toa building an initial 3D laser scan surveywill accurately document the current lay-

out, this means that any future plansmade are based on the exact current sta-tus of the building, not on previousplans made which may or may not becorrect. This naturally has the advantageof not having to rework plans during thereworking saving time and money.

By cutting a cross section through ascan the 2D floor layout can be display-ed. This can be overlayed over the origi-nal design plan, as above, to demonstra-te alterations made to the floor layout.For example a movement of a pillar posi-tion or the removal of a The 2D designplans can then be updated for accurateas built documentation.

Architecture scanning to Trevi, Umbria/Italy.

12

Simulation & Inspection

FARO Scene software allows simplemeasurements to be taken within the

point cloud data, this means that immedi-ately following a scan distances betweenwalls and objects or lengths of pipes canbe made with an instant readout. Thesoftware also has an automatic recogni-tion feature for edges, pipes and planessuch as floors and walls meaning thatbasic 3D models can be constructed.selected areas can the be meshed, redu-cing point density in flatter areas whilst

maintaining detail on curved surfaces. Using software such as Microstation a

full CAD model of the structure can berecorded and accurate „as built“ 3D CADplans of the building can be produced.

Therefore any deviations from the origi-nal construction plans are included in the3D documentation. Using 3D plans hea-ting, ventilation and air conditioningducts can be planned into the buildingand collision hazards can be identified.

Scanning in tunnel construction

13

Automotive

The FARO Laser Scanner LS has already

been used extensively within the auto-

motive industry for the digitizing of entire

production environments and for verifica-

tion of specific machines and jigs. Exam-

ples include BMW, Audi, & Nissan. Appli-

cations within the Automotive industry fall

into two categories, level 1 and level 2. Level 1 refers to larger scale applications

where accuracy requirements are lower,such as the digital reproduction of anentire production line. Initially a map ofreference points is created, this is done bysurveying positioning bolts in visible posi-tions around the environment to be scan-ned. Reference spheres are then attachedto the bolts visible in each scan and thearea is scanned, repositioning the scannerfor each scan enables objects to be scan-ned from different sides.

Scans are the linked to one anotherwithin the FARO Scene software, this givesa highly detailed point cloud of the pro-duction environment allowing the user toview details as well as the complete area.VRML data can be imported directly intothe point cloud to assess collision hazardswhen installing new equipment or modif-ying the production area planning thechanges with the as built data.

VRML Data import into point cloud

Automotive

14

Level 2 Automotive appli-cations refer to higher

accuracy applications insmaller areas of the produc-tion floor. The compact andlightweight nature of theFARO Laser Scanner LSmeans that scans can betaken in relatively confinedareas. A typical example isthe verification of jig andtool alignment comparingthe design to the build. Thisanalysis will clearly showthe user where the jig dif-fers from design and allow

CAD data

Point cloud

appropriate correction or com-pensation. For the reworking orassessment of a complex pro-duction area intelligent plan-ning will lead to more efficientimplementation of new equip-ment and accurate documen-tation of current systems.

The accuracy of these Level 2applications can be achievedwith the same scanner used forLevel 1.

15

The FARO European headquaters inStuttgart

Following your purchase you are not justleft on your own. A qualified customer-

service team is at your disposal to provideadvice on the telephone or on the spot.Whether to help with an application-spe-cific query or with technical problems.Our enthusiastic customer service provi-des rapid and simple assistance.

For our systems FARO offers competenttraining courses so that you can optimallyprepare your employees for working withany FARO system.

Either directly with you on your premi-ses, or in one of our modern, well equip-ped training centres. Highly qualified,customer-focused trainers cater for the

individual needs of the participants andtheir applications.

FARO products are maintained byFARO. We service all products with a pick-up and bring-in service. With the pick-upservice, a replacement unit is loaned tocustomers while theirs is away. FARO in-form users on innovations and users’ ex-perience, also organising a customerforum and maintaining regular contactswith our customers.

Special maintenance programs makesure that any FARO product is regularlycertified (to comply with ISO 9000) Pre-mium Warranty cover guarantees a loanerunit whilst your system is in service.

Kiki Telliadou from FARO customer service

All about the customer -The best service

FARO Europe GmbH & Co. KGTel. (+49) 711 222 24-0Fax. (+49) 711 222 24-44Email: info@faroeurope.comwww.faro.com

FARO United KingdomThe Techno CentreCoventry University Tech. Park Puma Way Coventry CV1 2TT0800 917 6167

From the smallest to the largest measuring volumes

Platinum Arm

Wo

rkin

g v

olu

me

s

F A R O p r o d u c t s

Gage

Laser Tracker

in the FARO product family. With a wor-

king radius of up to 70m, it uses a laser

beam to measure large components

with absolute precision and with the

simplest of handling.

The two measurement arms, the Tita-

nium and the Platinum, complete the

measuring range up to a max. working

volume of 3.7m.

With the launch of the FARO

Gage, FARO is offering an opti-

mum product range for measurements

between 5µm and up to 70m.

With its user-friendly software and

accuracy of up to ± 0.005mm, the

FARO Gage is the latest addition to the

FARO family. The FARO Laser Tracker

covers the large measurement volumes

FAROThe product family

Laser Line Probe

© 2005 FARO EUROPE GmbH & Co. KG- EN - 04REF203-054.PDF

Revised: 22 Aug. 2005

Laser Scanner LS