Underground iron mine

Captured deep underground in an iron mine, this dataset demonstrates how SLAM-based LiDAR mapping can be used to scan in environments where GPS navigation is unavailable. The irregular geometry, narrow passages, and dusty spaces make this a challenging scenario for most scanning technologies. Usually, operating in light-restricted environments also makes it difficult to identify and capture dark surfaces, but this was no problem for Artec Jet.

Deployed in handheld mode, the device could be carried through this scene in minutes. No preparation was required – Artec Jet simply powered up, locked onto surrounding geometry, and began building a coherent picture in real time. The scanner transitioned from open chambers to tight passages without missing a beat, maintaining high accuracy throughout.

As you can see in the resulting dataset, rock faces, support timber, tool marks, and the subtle curvature of hand-carved tunnels are all faithfully recorded. This kind of rich point cloud allows for accurate as-built documentation, deviation analysis, and spatial measurements, supporting applications like structural assessment, maintenance planning, and ongoing monitoring.