Last Updated on 16th May 2023

In this post, we’ll look at the ways that departments are exploring the benefits that laser scanners bring to education.

The next generation should always have an opportunity to experience existing and emerging technologies. It will help them grasp important concepts during their studies and prepare them for the day-to-day work after graduation. The sooner they start getting hands-on experience with these tools the better. It will enhance their own learning experience and benefit the technology.

Students will be tomorrow’s innovators. They will find new ways to use 3D scanning technology and spot its potential. But to do this they need experience with the scanners and LiDAR. To generate ideas and identify new uses, they need to be comfortable with the current ones.

There are obvious benefits to using 3D scanners as an educational tool. From classrooms to fieldwork and long-term research, scanners have a range of uses. But there are also challenges.

If you’re wondering what mobile laser scanners can add to your curriculum, here’s a quick rundown of things to consider.

With many possible uses for laser scanning in education, it’s unsurprising to see a range of faculties making use of the technology. As well as core topics in engineering and the built environment, a broad group of humanity and science subjects are able to explore important concepts outside the classroom using scanners.

Here are some examples of the different ways various departments have already used laser scanners and the benefits they’ve gained.

LiDAR scanners are an essential tool for measuring, mapping and establishing the conditions of existing infrastructure. The increased use of handheld scanners on-site means it’s important that students know how to use them.

During the construction process data can chart changes and progress, and even monitor resources and stock throughout a project.

Architects focus on the planning and design process, relying on surveyors to bring in information on existing structures and spaces. The simplicity of handheld LiDAR scanners takes away this need. It allows architects to do every part of the job themselves, saving time and money, even on complicated jobs.

The engineering industry has embraced mobile laser scanning as a quick, reliable way of collecting accurate data. The mobility of these scanners means that data acquisition is a lot faster. Therefore, they are safer because surveyors don’t need to spend prolonged periods of time on site.

Handheld LiDAR scanners are likely to become a vital part of land surveying in the future. They offer a fast and simple way to capture complicated data without laborious setups.

Giving students knowledge of mobile LiDAR scanners will give them an edge when they come to work in the industry.

When it comes to scanning hostile environments or complex natural formations, the fast set-up and mobility of scanners are vital.

Universities and research centres aren’t just restricting this technology to their teaching staff. Students are getting the chance to use it too.

Here are some ways that ZEB scanners support staff and students in their research.

3D laser scanning on historical preservation is redefining historical study.

Handheld laser scanners makes the process of mapping restrictive, delicate and detailed historical sites far quicker than previous scanning techniques. The ease of use means that staff and students can collaborate on projects, so students gain valuable field experience. Their contributions are often added to the important research.

The impact of laser scanners is not limited to field research when it comes to historical studies though. Universities and institutions are using point cloud data gathered to create 3D models and AR or VR versions of historic sites.

This brings long term benefits for future generations inside and outside of the universities carrying out the research.

Technical hardware like scanners is usually focused on research and teaching, however there are no real limits to its use. One scanner within a university could be used across several departments making them a cost-effective solution.

GeoSLAM technology has been used for mapping both Exeter University and Oxford University. Mobile scanners generated high-quality point cloud data across major areas of the sites without causing disruption to the working campuses. In both these situations, work was completed by external bodies but once the technology is owned in-house, the wide range of applications is open to anyone.

ZEB Horizon scanners were used as part of a psychological and physiological study by The Human Adaptation Institute. The Deep Time 40 experiment isolated their team in a cave for 40 days to test their ability to adapt. During this experiment, they were given tasks to help structure their days – starting with scanning the caves. The simple set-up and ‘walk and scan’ capabilities created an engaging task that played a key role in the experiment.

In conclusion, we draw back to our original question – what is the use of laser scanners in education? The answer is both clear and complex because the uses are almost limitless in both subject areas and applications.

From enabling student empowerment through work-based skills to increase engagement through hands-on tasks. The possibilities for the use of scanners in education are endless.