I. Principles and Applications of 3D Laser Scanners
3D laser scanning technology, also known as "reality capture technology", represents a major technological revolution in the surveying field, following the advent of GPS. Its core principle is based on laser ranging – through high‑speed laser scanning, it records the three‑dimensional coordinates, reflectivity, texture, and other information of densely distributed points on the surface of an object, rapidly reconstructing high‑precision 3D models.
Unlike traditional single‑point measurement, 3D laser scanning has achieved a leap from "point measurement" to "surface measurement". Today‘s scanning speeds have developed from the initial 1,000 points per second to millions of points per second, enabling detailed description of complex objects.
In terms of applications, the technology has been widely used in surveying engineering, cultural heritage conservation, architectural measurement, industrial reverse engineering, mine surveying, and emergency services. Whether it is dam deformation monitoring, digital preservation of ancient buildings, or reverse modelling of factory pipelines, 3D laser scanning plays an indispensable role.
II. What is GB/T 7247.1 Testing for 3D Laser Scanners?
GB/T 7247.1 (Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements) is the core basic standard for laser product safety in China, technically equivalent to the international standard IEC 60825‑1. The latest version is GB/T 7247.1‑2024 (effective from 1 April 2025), which replaces the long‑used GB 7247.1‑2012.
The core task of this standard is to classify all laser products into seven safety classes – Class 1, 1M, 2, 2M, 3R, 3B, and Class 4 – based on the degree of hazard that laser radiation poses to the human eye and skin. Different classes correspond to strict Accessible Emission Limits (AEL).
It is worth noting that a national standard project specifically for 3D laser scanner performance – “Optoelectronic measurement – Performance test methods for laser 3D scanners” (Project No.: 20251771‑T‑491) – is currently under development, drafted by the Aerospace Information Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and other organisations. This standard will specify test methods for laser safety class, wavelength, maximum detection range, ranging accuracy, and other performance parameters of laser 3D scanners.
For 3D laser scanners, GB/T 7247.1 testing verifies the safety of the laser emission module to the human eye and skin – whether the device operates within compliant power limits, whether safety protection devices are adequate, and whether labels and user manuals meet regulatory requirements. This is a mandatory market access requirement for legal sale and circulation of products in the domestic market.
III. Testing Process and Timeline
A complete GB/T 7247.1 testing process generally includes the following steps:
1. Preliminary confirmation: Clarify product attributes, including laser wavelength, continuous/pulsed type, nominal power, and other basic parameters.
2. Engage a testing body: Choose a third‑party laboratory with both CNAS and CMA accreditations and discuss testing details.
3. Submit application and documentation: Including application form, business licence, product user manual, circuit diagrams, laser module specifications, production flow charts, draft laser safety labels, etc.
4. Send samples: Provide a complete sample consistent with mass production. For large equipment, on‑site testing may be arranged.
5. Laboratory testing: Conduct wavelength testing, output power/energy testing, pulse characteristic analysis, safety protection verification, label and manual compliance review, etc.
6. Report issuance: After passing the tests, issue an official report bearing CNAS and CMA marks.
The standard full‑process timeline is approximately 5‑7 working days, with expedited services available to compress it to as little as 3 working days.
IV. Testing Costs and How to Choose a Testing Body
Testing costs vary depending on product complexity, laser class, and the number of test items. The exact cost should be confirmed through consultation with the testing body’s engineers based on the actual product.
When choosing a testing body, it is recommended to prioritise third‑party laser laboratories with dual CNAS and CMA accreditations. Shenzhen Zhongwei Inspection is a leading organisation in laser product testing and certification, operating a state‑of‑the‑art laser laboratory equipped with fully imported precision instruments. It holds more than 70 laser‑related authorised standards and over 120 testing capability parameters, with a power measurement range covering pW to 5 kW and pulse measurement down to the picosecond level. The organisation provides one‑stop GB/T 7247.1 testing services for 3D laser scanners with high efficiency, short turnaround times, and professional reliability, earning wide industry recognition.
For manufacturers with export needs, it is advisable to apply for IEC 60825, EN 60825, or FDA laser safety testing alongside GB/T 7247.1 testing, enabling one sample submission to generate multiple reports and effectively reducing overall costs.
