Laser tracker systems are among the most advanced tools in industrial metrology, enabling high-precision measurements over long distances and in real production environments. By combining technologies such as laser interferometry, Absolute Distance Measurement (ADM), and advanced target tracking systems, modern laser trackers deliver speed, reliability, and accuracy for demanding industrial applications.
Laser Tracker
A laser tracker is a portable metrology system used to precisely determine the position of points in space. It operates by emitting a laser beam toward a target (typically a spherical reflector), which it continuously tracks using servo-controlled mechanisms.
It measures:
• distance (via ADM and/or an interferometer)
• and angles (both horizontal and vertical)
and calculates the (X, Y, Z) coordinates of each point with exceptional accuracy.
How it works
The operation of a laser tracker is based on three core technologies:
• Laser tracking: continuous tracking of the reflector
• Angle measurement: precise capture of angular position
• Distance measurement (ADM / interferometer): highly accurate distance measurement
Together, these technologies enable:
• real-time measurements
• high accuracy over long distances
• dynamic measurements (dynamic tracking)
Where it is used
Laser trackers are used across a wide range of industries, including:
• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Shipbuilding and marine
• Heavy industry and energy
Typical applications include:
• Inspection of large components
• Alignment and assembly
• Alignment of machinery and production lines
• Calibration of robots and machine tools
• Verification of installation geometry
Advantages of the Laser Tracker technology
Laser trackers offer key advantages for modern manufacturing:
• Large measurement volume (up to ~160 m)
• High accuracy across the entire measurement range
• Portability and fast setup
• Real-time feedback for immediate decision-making
• Seamless integration into automated workflows
This makes them ideal for applications where precision and time are critical factors.
From point measurement to surface measurement (direct scanning)
One of the most significant advancements in industrial metrology is the shift from point-based measurement to direct surface measurement (direct scanning).
Modern systems, such as the ATS600 and ATS800, enable:
• reflectorless measurement
• surface scanning over long distances
• inspection of complex geometries
At the same time, sensors such as the T-Mac enable 6 degrees of freedom (6DoF) measurements, providing full position and orientation data in real time.
The role of technology in modern metrology
The evolution of laser trackers is driven by leading manufacturers such as Hexagon, who invest in technologies that combine:
• metrology-grade accuracy
• automation
• digital connectivity (digital workflows)
Modern systems are an integral part of industrial production, supporting processes such as:
• automated inspection
• robot guidance
• digital production verification
How to choose the right laser tracker
The right choice depends on your application requirements:
• Surface inspection without a reflector → ATS600 / ATS800
• Dynamic measurements & automation → AT960
• General metrology applications → AT930
Key selection criteria include:
• required accuracy
• measurement range
• need for automation
• application type (static vs. dynamic)
Laser trackers are a fundamental tool in modern industrial metrology, enabling precise, fast, and reliable measurements in large-scale applications. As technologies such as direct scanning and 6DoF measurement continue to evolve, their capabilities expand, meeting the growing demands of today’s industry.
👉 In the next article, we explore what 6DoF measurement is and how it is used in applications such as robot calibration and automated inspection.
If you’d like to explore how laser tracking technologies can be applied to your specific needs, the METRICA team is here to support you.
Call us at +30 210 2815440 or submit your request through the form below:
