What Is Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Why Your Next Project Needs It

Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is a ground-based surveying method that uses laser pulses to quickly and precisely capture the 3D geometry of environments, structures, and terrain. A scanner sends out millions of laser beams per second, which bounce off surfaces and return to the device, recording exact distances and creating a dense "point cloud" of the area. The result is a digital twin of the site: a highly accurate, measurable 3D model that can be used for everything from design to analysis.

Imagine taking a snapshot of a building or construction site, but in full 3D. Every wall, window, pipe, or bump in the ground is captured exactly as it is. The difference? Instead of squinting at a grainy photo or relying on tape measurements, you’re working with millimetre-accurate data that can be sliced, measured, and modelled with confidence.

Why Terrestrial Laser Scanning Matters

If you’re still relying on traditional surveying methods, you’re leaving time, money, and accuracy on the table. TLS offers:

• Unmatched Accuracy & Detail – With millions of data points, TLS captures every angle, surface, and irregularity. You’ll know the true conditions of a site, not a rough approximation.

• Speed & Efficiency – A full site can be scanned in hours rather than days. Fewer site visits, fewer missed measurements, and fewer headaches.

• Reduced Rework & Cost – Detailed point clouds help detect clashes or design issues early. That means fewer mistakes, fewer change orders, and more budget staying where it belongs.

• Improved Safety – Survey from a safe distance. No more climbing scaffolds or working in traffic lanes just to get that one last measurement.

• Comprehensive Digital Record – TLS captures everything, even what you didn’t think you’d need. That data can be revisited months or years later, whether for facility management, litigation, or future upgrades.

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CHCNAV RS10 & RS30: A Smarter Way to Scan

For years, high-end TLS equipment was out of reach for smaller firms. Bulky setups, six-figure price tags, and complex software meant laser scanning was a luxury. Not anymore.

CHCNAV’s RS10 and RS30 scanners are changing the game:

• Handheld & Mobile – No tripod dragging. Walk and scan, even in tight or complex spaces.

• GNSS & Visual SLAM Integration – Get geo-referenced data instantly without targets or lengthy setup.

• High Accuracy – RS10 delivers 5cm absolute accuracy; RS30 goes further with longer range and higher point density.

• Affordability – Priced for access. You no longer need to be a mega-firm to get high-quality scans.

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Compared to traditional tripod scanners like Leica’s RTC360, Trimble’s X7, or Faro’s Focus series, CHCNAV offers a leaner, more agile system. Sure, the legacy brands might offer 1–2mm precision at short range, but for 90% of real-world jobs, CHCNAV hits the sweet spot of performance, portability, and price.

Use Cases That Make Sense

• Construction & BIM – Get as-built data fast. Scan existing conditions before renovation or verify work during construction.

• Topographic Surveys – Quickly map large or uneven terrain without needing hundreds of manual shots.

• Industrial Facilities – Scan complex piping or machinery layouts with minimal disruption.

• Heritage Documentation – Capture historic sites in full 3D without damaging delicate structures.

• Utilities & Infrastructure – Map roads, rail, or underground utilities with precision and ease.

Why Your Next Project Needs TLS

Because in 2025, guessing isn’t good enough.

Construction errors cost money. Rework delays schedules. Incomplete data leaves teams in the dark. Terrestrial laser scanning fixes all of that by giving you the full picture, the first time.

When you invest in TLS—especially with a versatile tool like the CHCNAV RS10 or RS30—you’re not just buying a scanner. You’re buying:

• Fewer site visits

• Better decisions

• More accurate plans

• Happier clients

You’re buying peace of mind.

So if your next project demands precision (and let's be honest—what project doesn't?), it's time to leave the guesswork behind.

Scan smarter. Build better.