The accuracy and reliability of a 3D laser scanner are crucial for precise measurements and scan data. An innovative tool that helps to ensure this accuracy is the carbon fibre reference scale bar. This scale bar provides an easy way to regularly check the performance of your laser scanner, both in the office and in the field after transport.
What characterizes the reference scale bar?
The reference scale bar is made of carbon fibre, a material known for its dimensional stability, low weight and high strength. The extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion of carbon fibre ensures that dimensional accuracy is maintained even with temperature fluctuations. This is particularly important to ensure precise measurements under different environmental conditions.
How is the reference scale bar constructed?
Two precise reference spheres made of a dimensionally stable special plastic are attached to both ends of the scale bar. These spheres have a diameter of 100mm and an accuracy of 50μm (0.05mm). The distance between the centres of the spheres is 1.45m and is determined and certified with high precision for each scale bar individually using a coordinate measuring machine.
What can the reference scale bar be used for?
The reference scale bar can be used almost anywhere. It is used to regularly check the scanner in the office, to check the scanner in the field after transport and as a reference distance on objects to be scanned as proof of quality.
Regular check of the scanner in the office
A regular check in the office ensures that your scanner always delivers correct data. By using the reference scale bar, you can quickly and easily carry out a simple field check of your device and recognise any deviations at an early stage.
Checking the scanner in the field after transport
After a scanner has been transported, the calibration may change due to vibrations and temperature fluctuations. The reference scale enables a quick check of the scanner in the field to ensure that the device continues to work precisely.
Use as a reference distance on objects to be scanned
When performing scans with high accuracy, the reference scale bar can be positioned as an independent control measure in the corresponding scans. This serves as proof of quality and increases the reliability of the captured data. For handheld scanners in particular, the scale can be used as a reference dimension for route improvement in the software. However, it should be noted that only a limited measuring range over the length of the reference rod can be regarded as reliable.
Which 3D scanners is the reference scale bar compatible with?
The reference scale bar is compatible with a wide range of laser scanners, including:
- FARO scanner
- Leica Geosystems scanner
- Trimble scanner
- Z+F scanner
What else you should know
The reference scale bar offers a simple and manageable way of roughly checking scanning systems. However, it does not replace the extensive measurement procedures and calibrations carried out by the manufacturer. If deviations or discrepancies are found, it is important to inform the manufacturer.
Determining the centre points of the spheres to determine the distance is a critical point. It must be ensured that there are sufficient measuring points on the spheres. The determination of the sphere centres also depends on the sphere detection algorithm of the software used. Different algorithms can lead to different sphere radii or centre points, especially with automated sphere detection.
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