When Laser Scanning Falls Short – Precision Beyond the Beam
Laser 3D scanners are widely used across many industries due to their flexibility and mobility. However, their accuracy often fails to meet the stringent requirements of modern quality control and high-precision manufacturing. Structured light scanning offers a powerful alternative, delivering micrometer-level accuracy and exceptional repeatability. This article explores where laser scanning technology falls short and how structured light scanners are redefining 3D measurement standards.
The Limitations of Laser Scanners
Laser triangulation-based scanners are often the first choice for field work, large part inspection, and general-purpose 3D scanning. Their strengths include high speed, portability, and ease of use. Yet their typical accuracy, ranging between 20 µm and 50 µm, can be a critical drawback when measuring components with tight tolerances.
Applications where laser scanners may be insufficient:
- Aerospace or medical components with geometric tolerances <10 µm,
- Precision molds and injection tooling,
- Inspection of fine surface details, sharp edges, and microstructures.
Structured Light: A Leap Forward in Precision
Structured light scanners operate by projecting a series of light patterns onto the object and capturing their deformation using high-resolution cameras. This method generates exceptionally dense point clouds with accuracy far beyond that of laser-based systems.
The eviXscan 3D’s FinePrecision scanner as an example, offers:
- Accuracy up to 6 µm,
- High-resolution scanning for minute features,
- Stability and repeatability suitable for laboratory-grade metrology,
- Seamless integration with automated inspection systems.
Designed and manufactured in the EU, eviXscan 3D’s solutions are certified and tested according to international standards such as VDI/VDE 2634.
Comparing Technologies: Laser vs. Structured Light
| Feature | Laser Scanning | Structured Light (eviXscan 3D) |
| Accuracy | ~20 – 50 µm | Up to 6 µm |
| Resolution | Medium | Very High |
| Surface sensitivity | Moderate | High |
| Repeatability | Variable | Excellent |
| Suitable for automation | Potentially | Yes – native integration |
| Best for | Large parts, mobility | Precision inspection, QC |
Structured light scanning outperforms laser systems in nearly every critical metric where metrological accuracy is required.
Applications That Demand Higher Precision
Structured light scanning is the preferred technology in industries where micron-level fidelity is essential:
- Medical device manufacturing
- Aerospace & defense part validation
- Tool & die making
- Micro-mechanical engineering
- Watchmaking and optics
In such sectors, repeatable and traceable measurement results are not optional – they are vital for certification, compliance, and safety.
eviXscan 3D: Scanning at a Metrological Standard
eviXscan 3D develops high-performance 3D scanners in Poland, with a focus on:
Precision: Devices like the FinePrecision or WideRange deliver unmatched measurement fidelity.
Durability: All models use industrial-grade components and thermally stable structures.
Automation-Readiness: Direct integration with cobots and inspection cells enables full process automation.
Compliance: Systems are validated in controlled lab conditions following
Conclusion
Laser scanners serve a wide range of use cases – but for the most demanding applications, they may not be enough. When high accuracy, resolution, and repeatability are critical, structured light scanning is the gold standard. And with devices from eviXscan 3D, manufacturers can ensure their measurement processes match the precision of their production lines.
For more information: www.evixscan3d.com
Author: Klaudia Kubieniec Marketing Manager evixscan 3D
