FAQ projecteurs laser

Laser projectors generate a precise laser point that is directed onto a surface using fast-moving mirrors. When this point moves quickly enough along defined lines or contours, the human eye perceives it as a continuous projection. The laser projection is based on CAD data, allowing contours, outlines, complex shapes, and even text instructions to be displayed directly on components, tools, or work surfaces with millimeter precision. As digital data is transferred onto the surface as visible laser images, this is also commonly known as “digital laser templates” or “laser template projection.”  

Accurate positioning is therefore essential, so proper initial calibration of the projector is crucial to ensure that the underlying CAD data aligns perfectly with the actual surface. 

The CAD-PRO Xpert laser projection system is primarily operated through the PRO-SOFT software, which offers a structured and user-friendly interface for all essential functions. This includes importing CAD data, editing projection files, calibrating the system, and executing projections on the shop floor. Additionally, the laser projection system can be easily controlled by the operators using remote controls or mobile devices, such as tablets and handheld devices.

The CAD-PRO Xpert can project up to 6 different laser colors, depending on the projector's configuration. When using a single laser source—green, red, or blue—the projection will appear in that specific color. Using two laser sources of the same color increases the brightness of the laser beam (“Boost function”). When two different laser colors are combined, they can create yellow, magenta, or cyan projections. These multicolor capabilities provide enhanced options for displaying information on the workpiece.

Green lasers typically provide the best visibility to the human eye. However, depending on the color and surface structure of your object, other laser colors may be more suitable. The CAD-PRO Xpert system offers multiple laser colors, including red, green, blue, yellow, cyan, and magenta. The system also supports multi-color projections to highlight specific areas or lines in different colors, improving work ergonomics and increasing process reliability.  

The visibility of a projected laser image is influenced by setup geometry, shape complexity, ambient conditions, and surface material. Brighter environments require more laser power, as direct sunlight can outshine the projection. Surface material influences how much laser light is absorbed or reflected; materials like wood, metal, concrete, and composites perform well, while transparent, reflective, and shiny surfaces reduce visibility. Matte black surfaces absorb much light with minimal reflection, and very rough surfaces may also diminish brightness. While the laws of physics set certain limits, LAP experts will find an application-specific solution to achieve the best possible projection visibility — even under challenging conditions. 

No, not in typical outdoor conditions. Bright, direct sunlight can be strong enough to outshine the laser projection. LAP's laser projection systems are designed primarily for industrial production environments. They are typically used indoors in applications such as composite manufacturing, shipbuilding, rotor blade manufacturing, and the prefabrication of wood and concrete elements. 

The CAD-PRO Xpert laser projector complies with applicable laser safety standards, such as ((bitte ergänzen)) where relevant. 
In addition, the system includes essential safety features to support safe operation. The laser automatically shuts down if defined parameters are exceeded. Our control software also prevents individual projection points from being displayed at full output power. For laser class 2 projection systems, the laser power for individual points is reduced to a maximum of 1 mW; for laser class 3R systems, it is reduced to a maximum of 5 mW. 

Furthermore, the laser projector can be equipped with a distance sensor to support safe operation when projecting from long distances at high output power. If a person comes within two meters of the projector, the laser switches off immediately. 

These integrated safety functions reflect our “Safety First” approach. 

Important: Please always check the applicable national health and safety requirements in your country. 

The maximum projection angle is 80 × 80° below the laser exit. This can be visualized as a square-based pyramid, with the laser projector positioned at the top. The projector can be installed at various heights, with typical projection distances ranging from approximately 3 to 15 meters, depending on the application and the mounting conditions in the production environment.

Yes, the system is fully scalable. To project onto larger areas or to create more complex shapes, multiple projectors can be combined. Thus, the projection area and the number of projectors are virtually unlimited. 

The PRO-SOFT operating software, used with CAD-PRO Xpert, supports all common data formats used in the industry, such as: 

 DXF, IGES, HPGL, as well as LPD and PLY 

Additionally, optional import modules allow direct data handling in STEP and CATIA formats. 

In general, you may use any CAD or design software on the market that can export one of the listed file formats. For quick and straightforward projection file creation, you can also use a plug-in for the CAD software Rhinoceros 3D or simple Excel spreadsheets via CSV import. 

The most important functions of the laser projection system can be controlled externally, such as by an external computer or a PLC, via a TCP/IP interface. As an option, LAP offers a comprehensive API to integrate laser projectors into 3rd-party software solutions and to control them directly from these systems, as implemented in Spatial Analyzer® from New River Kinematics®.