Measuring distances is essential for many industries and activities, but the process can often involve a lot of time and effort if done the traditional way. But with lasers, you can measure distances quickly and accurately. In this article, we discuss what lasers bring to measuring distances and why it’s the way to go.
1. What is Laser Distance Measurement?
Laser distance measurement is a process of extracting precise and accurate distances between two points using laser beams or pulses. It allows users to measure distances from a relatively long range. In comparison to traditional measuring methods, laser distance measurement is usually much more reliable and accurate.
Advantages of laser distance measurement:
- Highly precise and accurate – usually up to one tenth of a millimeter.
- Greater measuring range than standard measuring tools.
- Quicker results than other tool.
This type of distance measurement is a widely used practice in many industries. It is excellent for tasks such as surveying, construction, engineering, etc. where getting precise results is important. Laser distance measurements are also used in robotics for navigation since the laser can quickly detect distances and speeds.
2. How Does Laser Distance Measurement Work?
Laser distance measurement works in a simple, yet precise way. With the help of a laser beam, the distance between two objects can be determined in only moments.
- A laser emitter is pointed at the object and measures the amount of time that it takes for the laser beam to reach the other object and come back
- The laser emitter measures the time it takes for the laser beam to reach the other object in nanoseconds
- This time is then multiplied by the speed of light to calculate the distance between the objects
Laser distance measurement is accurate to within a few centimeters and is commonly used in surveying, construction, and engineering. It is also used for measuring height in sports. With the help of a laser beam, anyone can measure the distance between two objects quickly and accurately.
3. Benefits of Laser Distance Measurement
1. Increased Accuracy: One of the main advantages of using a laser distance measurer is its high level of accuracy. Laser distance measurers provide measurements that are typically much more accurate than those offered by traditional tape measures. This makes them perfect for any application where precise, consistent measurements are required.
2. Increased Speed: Using a laser distance measurer also provides measurements much faster than other measuring tools, which can significantly reduce time spent on a particular job. With faster measurement times, tasks can be completed in a much shorter amount of time, allowing for more efficient project management.
3. Increased Range: Laser distance measurers also offer increased range compared to tape measures or other tools. This means that they are perfect for any type of measuring job that requires long-distance measurement. With a laser distance measurer, it is possible to accurately measure distances up to 100 meters or more.
Uncommon Features: Laser distance measurers also feature uncommon but useful functions such as area measurements, Pythagorean measurements, indirect measurements, and reference points. These features allow for greater precision and versatility for specific jobs.
4. Potential Drawbacks of Laser Distance Measurement
Cost
Using lasers to measure distance can be costly. Laser measuring devices are typically not cheap, ranging from affordable options up to relatively expensive ones. They also require to be accurately calibrated, meaning that use of those devices is not for the casual user who wants to measure a distance from time to time.
Interference
Another potential drawback of the laser distance measuring process is that it can be affected by external factors that could interfere with accuracy. Thick fog or mist can be a problem, as can other objects between the laser source and its target point. If the laser beam is blocked by something else, it will produce inaccurate measurements.
Range
The range of distance that can be measured with a laser is also limited. While the devices come in various different ranges, from smaller distances up to longer ones, most commercially available laser measuring tools can’t measure more than a few hundred yards. They’re therefore more suitable for short-distance internal measurements than long-distance outdoor measurements.
Complication
Using a laser measuring device can also be more complicated than simply using a traditional measuring tool like a ruler or tape measure. It requires a certain level of understanding of the device, and users may need to experiment with its settings to get the desired result. This could cause frustration among users who only want a quick and easy way to measure distance.
Also read: Are Laser Levels Dangerous for Your Eyes?
Conclusion
With lasers being able to measure distances accurately up to many meters away, it has proved to not only be a useful tool, but also a cost-effective and efficient way to measure distances. Here are some of the advantages of measuring distances with lasers:
- Accuracy: Generally, lasers are accurate to within 1/16th inch or less.
- Versatility: Lasers can be used for a variety of measuring needs, from simple distances to complex shapes.
- Speed: Lasers are about ten times faster than traditional, manual measuring methods.
- Cost-Effective: Lasers are inexpensive tools that can save time and resources.
Measuring distances with lasers has revolutionized the field of surveying and construction. It’s an efficient and reliable method that is accurate and consistent. With fast and cost-effective measuring, it’s the go-to method for any distance measuring.
We hope this article has helped to demystify the process of measuring distances using lasers, pointing out where the benefits and potential pitfalls lie. Now you can make a more informed decision when choosing a distance measuring method for your project. Good luck!