Artec 3D, a 3D scanning hardware and software company, has launched Artec Jet, a mobile LiDAR system for survey-grade 3D mapping across large sites. Introduced alongside new processing software called Artec Twins, the scanner is designed for use by hand, drone, or vehicle in indoor, outdoor, underground, and GPS-denied environments.
Captured LiDAR data is processed through SLAM algorithms for real-time positional tracking, mapping, and autonomous drone navigation. According to the company, the device delivers accuracy of ±10 mm indoors and underground, while detecting changes as small as 5 mm. RTK accessories can be added for GNSS-assisted georeferencing and reduced drift. A companion app provides real-time feedback and on-site verification during scanning, while a 360° x 290° field of view can be paired with optional video cameras for color capture.
The scanner supports seven deployment modes: handheld, backpack, drone, vehicle mount, protective cage, telescopic pole, and robotic integration. The company states that the same SLAM system operates across all seven modes. Artec Jet carries an IP65 rating for dust and water protection, operates in temperatures from -10°C to 45°C, and weighs 1.57 kg. According to Artec, the system is intended for use in conditions including complete darkness, zero-connectivity environments, and locations considered too hazardous for human exposure.
“With Artec Jet, we’re entering an exciting new chapter,” said Art Yukhin, President and CEO of Artec 3D. “Our mission has always been to make 3D scanning as fast, accurate, and intuitive as possible. Artec Jet expands this approach into larger environments, empowering our customers to capture infrastructure with the same level of confidence and ease.” Artec 3D says the device can also scan autonomously while mounted on a drone. Using SLAM algorithms and AI-based navigation, the system is designed to plan flight paths independently, avoid obstacles as small as 2 mm wires, maintain stable positioning, and continue acquiring mapping data. Artec says a drone carrying the scanner can return automatically to its launch point if battery levels fall below safe thresholds.
Artec Twins, launched with the scanner, is a software platform for processing and visualizing large-scale 3D data. Artec 3D says the software can process, merge, georeference, visualize, and inspect point cloud datasets, then export files in .LAS, .LAZ, .PLY, .DXF, and .E57 formats. Artec positions Jet for applications including digital twins, BIM, as-built documentation, volumetric measurement, change detection, condition assessment, and inspection in construction, mining, infrastructure, public safety, and underground environments. Manufacturing World Nagoya attendees were able to see Artec Jet in person at a hands-on demonstration hosted by Data Design in Hall 1, Booth 15-103.
Artec extends its software and workflow reach
Artec has recently been pushing deeper into industrial workflows where scan data needs to move quickly into inspection and validation. A recent integration with InnovMetric’s PolyWorks|Inspector addressed one of the more persistent bottlenecks in portable metrology: the need to export scan data into separate inspection software, manually realign datasets, and rebuild inspection setups. By linking capture more directly to GD&T analysis, reporting, and standards-based inspection, that move showed Artec targeting not just 3D data acquisition, but the downstream decisions built on it.
Software has also become central to how the company broadens access to 3D capture. Late last year, Artec introduced a lighter version of its data-processing platform built around AI-powered photogrammetry, allowing users to generate accurate 3D models from photos and video without dedicated scanning hardware. That release extended Artec’s reach beyond established scanning users and into lower-friction model creation. Jet pushes in a different direction, adding site-scale LiDAR capture for large, complex, and hard-to-access environments while keeping processing inside the same broader software ecosystem.
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Featured photo shows Artec Jet mobile LiDAR scanner in handheld configuration. Photo via Artec.
