Volumetric Measurement – LASE Laser Solutions

Volumetric Measurement – LASE Laser Solutions for Bulk Handling and Truck Management

Introduction

In bulk handling industries, accuracy is everything. Whether loading iron ore at a port terminal or managing truck loads at a mining site, the ability to measure volume precisely determines profitability, safety, and efficiency. Traditional weighing methods, while reliable in the past, are no longer enough for modern operations that demand real-time insight and digital integration.

Enter LASE GmbH, a global pioneer in laser measurement technology. Their volumetric laser systems deliver a digital-first approach to bulk management—combining high-precision 3D laser scanning, advanced analytics, and automation. As a result, operators gain real-time visibility into stockpiles, truck loads, and conveyor flow with unmatched accuracy and speed.

This article explores how LASE’s volumetric measurement solutions transform bulk handling and truck management. We will look at the technology, its industrial applications, and the measurable advantages it brings to ports, terminals, and mines worldwide.

The Challenge: Measuring Bulk Material Accurately

The Problem with Traditional Methods

In bulk industries, measurement is far from simple. Materials such as coal, ore, grain, and aggregates are irregular in shape, density, and moisture content. Conventional methods like belt scales, ultrasonic sensors, or manual surveys often produce inconsistent results.

Moreover, manual measurement introduces human error, safety risks, and delays. Inaccurate readings lead to overloading, underbilling, and logistical inefficiencies, each of which can cost operators thousands of dollars daily.

The Demand for Real-Time Insight

Modern ports and mines operate on tight schedules and rely on integrated data systems. Therefore, real-time, non-contact, and accurate measurement is now essential. Operators need immediate feedback to adjust loading processes, verify transport capacity, and optimize flow.

This is precisely where LASE’s volumetric laser systems excel.

LASE GmbH: Precision in 3D Laser Measurement

LASE GmbH, headquartered in Germany, specializes in laser-based measurement and automation technology for industrial applications. The company’s products are known for their reliability, adaptability, and precision in the most demanding environments—from steel production and ports to mining and logistics.

LASE systems use LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology to create detailed 3D profiles of bulk materials. This data enables automatic calculation of volumes, positions, and movement without physical contact or interruption of operations.

Because the measurements are digital and instant, they integrate seamlessly into SCADA, MES, and ERP systems, turning data into actionable intelligence.

How Laser Volumetric Measurement Works

3D Laser Scanning

LASE laser scanners emit light pulses that reflect off bulk material surfaces. By measuring the time it takes for each pulse to return, the system calculates distance with millimetric accuracy. By scanning millions of points per second, a complete 3D model of the surface is created.

Volume Calculation

The software compares the scanned data with reference geometry—such as an empty truck bed, container, or stockpile baseline. It then calculates volume automatically, even compensating for irregular shapes and slopes.

Integration and Automation

Because LASE systems are modular, they can integrate with conveyor systems, truck scales, or robotic loaders. As a result, operators can automate processes like load verification, inventory management, and reporting.

LASE Volumetric Measurement Solutions

1. LaseTVM – Truck Volumetric Measurement

The LaseTVM system is designed to measure truck load volumes quickly and precisely—without stopping the vehicle. Mounted above the truck lane, laser scanners capture the 3D shape of the load before and after dumping.

Key features include:

  • Non-contact scanning at speeds up to 50 km/h.

  • Automatic recognition of truck type and load area.

  • Volume calculation accuracy within ±1%.

  • Integration with weighbridges for mass-volume correlation.

As a result, LaseTVM improves truck management by:

  • Preventing overloading and associated fines.

  • Recording every transaction digitally.

  • Enabling automated billing and traceability.

2. LaseBVH – Bulk Volume on Conveyor Belts

The LaseBVH system continuously measures the volume of material on a conveyor belt. The scanner is installed above the belt and generates a cross-section profile in real time.

Benefits include:

  • Precise volumetric flow rate measurement.

  • Early detection of belt misalignment or blockages.

  • Integration with SCADA systems for process optimization.

Therefore, operators gain full visibility of material flow and can react instantly to fluctuations.

3. LaseSPC – Stockpile Volume and Profile Measurement

For stockyards and storage areas, the LaseSPC system scans entire stockpiles using 3D laser sensors mounted on tripods, cranes, or gantries.

The system delivers:

  • Accurate 3D models of stockpile geometry.

  • Real-time volume calculations and material tracking.

  • Integration with logistics software for automatic reporting.

Consequently, LaseSPC eliminates the need for manual surveying, drone flights, or unsafe physical inspections.

4. LaseCPV – Container Profiling and Volume Measurement

In ports and logistics terminals, LaseCPV measures container contents before transport or stacking. The system identifies uneven loads, overfilled containers, or hazardous protrusions.

This ensures compliance with international transport standards and reduces damage risk during shipping.

Advantages of LASE Laser Measurement Systems

1. Non-Contact and Maintenance-Free

Laser systems operate without touching the material. Therefore, there is no wear or contamination, and maintenance costs are significantly reduced.

2. High Accuracy and Repeatability

LASE systems achieve sub-centimeter accuracy even under harsh conditions. This level of precision guarantees consistent data for auditing and reporting.

3. Speed and Efficiency

Unlike manual or ultrasonic methods, laser systems complete scans in seconds. As a result, trucks move faster through checkpoints, conveyors run continuously, and operations remain uninterrupted.

4. Safety and Compliance

Eliminating manual measurement means fewer workers exposed to heavy equipment and dust. Furthermore, LASE systems provide digital documentation that supports ISO and safety compliance.

5. Seamless Digital Integration

All LASE systems connect to higher-level software platforms. Consequently, data from scanners feeds directly into ERP, billing, or logistics systems—creating a fully digital bulk management workflow.

Industrial Applications

Mining

In mines, LASE volumetric systems monitor truck loading and conveyor throughput. They prevent under- and overloading, which improves transport efficiency and extends equipment lifespan.

For example, LaseTVM identifies precisely how much material each truck carries, while LaseBVH verifies how efficiently conveyors transport ore to crushers or silos.

Ports and Terminals

Port operators use LASE solutions to monitor shiploading, unloading, and stockpile levels. By integrating LASESPC with terminal management systems, operators can track cargo volumes in real time and verify vessel loading plans.

This transparency supports faster turnaround and fewer disputes over cargo quantities.

Steel and Power Plants

In steel plants, where materials like coke, limestone, and iron ore are stored in open yards, LASESPC ensures accurate inventory control. Meanwhile, power plants use similar systems to monitor coal feed rates and stock levels.

Logistics and Agriculture

LASE technology also applies to grain terminals, fertilizer plants, and logistics centers. The systems measure irregular loads with ease, improving documentation and preventing contamination through non-contact scanning.

Digital Transformation and Data Connectivity

Real-Time Analytics

All LASE systems generate a constant stream of data. When analyzed, this data reveals trends, identifies bottlenecks, and supports predictive maintenance.

Integration with IoT Platforms

Through industrial IoT (IIoT) connectivity, LASE systems communicate with PLCs, SCADA, and enterprise resource planning tools. Therefore, every measurement contributes to a bigger picture of operational performance.

Cloud and Edge Computing

LASE supports hybrid data architectures. Edge devices process data instantly on-site, while cloud systems store and analyze long-term trends. As a result, decision-making becomes both faster and more informed.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Resource Efficiency

Accurate measurement means better control over material movement. This reduces spillage, overloading, and unnecessary transport, lowering both operational costs and emissions.

Energy Optimization

Because LASE systems automate flow control, conveyors and loaders run only when needed. Consequently, energy consumption decreases significantly.

Paperless Operations

Digital records replace manual tickets and reports, supporting sustainability and traceability. In addition, operators can easily share data with stakeholders, auditors, and clients.

Case Studies

Case 1: LaseTVM at a European Coal Terminal

A major coal terminal adopted the LaseTVM Truck Volumetric Measurement system to eliminate manual weighing. Within weeks, loading accuracy improved by 98%, and truck throughput increased by 25%. As a result, the terminal saved over 400 man-hours per month in manual inspection time.

Case 2: LaseBVH in a German Quarry

A quarry replaced outdated ultrasonic sensors with LaseBVH scanners. The new system provided continuous volume flow data, allowing the operator to optimize conveyor speed and crusher feed. Consequently, productivity rose while maintenance costs fell.

Case 3: LaseSPC in a Port Stockyard

At a European port, the LaseSPC Stockpile Measurement system automated monthly inventory calculations. Previously, manual surveying took two days; now, scans complete in under an hour, providing instant volume reports.

Why Laser Technology Is the Future of Bulk Measurement

Traditional weighing methods will always have a place, but laser technology delivers the digital precision that modern industry demands.

  • Accuracy: Real 3D surface mapping removes uncertainty.

  • Safety: Operators stay clear of heavy machinery.

  • Efficiency: Real-time data eliminates downtime.

  • Scalability: Systems expand easily to cover new conveyors or stockyards.

  • Integration: Data aligns with Industry 4.0 principles and predictive analytics.

Ultimately, LASE laser solutions bridge the gap between mechanical processes and digital intelligence, transforming bulk handling into a precise, data-driven science.

Conclusion

Precision defines modern industry. As automation and data integration accelerate, companies need tools that deliver accurate, real-time information without interrupting operations. LASE GmbH’s volumetric laser measurement systems meet that need perfectly.

From truck loading at mines to stockpile management at ports, LASE systems offer a seamless blend of accuracy, efficiency, and safety. Their non-contact technology reduces maintenance, while digital integration ensures that every scan contributes to smarter decisions.

In the digital-first era of bulk handling, laser measurement is not just a technological advantage—it is a competitive necessity. With LASE’s expertise, industries can measure, monitor, and manage every load with the precision that defines the future of logistics and material flow.