VTube-LASER and Metronor M-Scan 120
Written by Michael Cone
Updated at January 28th, 2026
Table of Contents
The Metronor M-Scan 120 is a handheld 3D metrology system that combines blue-line laser scanning with electro-optical navigation technology, allowing for sticker-free measurement in large volumes. It is designed for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, machining, 3D printing, and education/research. The system does not require any reference stickers on the part itself or around it, which speeds up the setup time and reduces running costs.
The M-Scan 120 is highly portable, with a carbon fiber frame weighing just 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs), and it offers ergonomic handling. It can be used with a Lightpen for probing, measuring hidden areas, and coordinating system alignment. The system can also be upgraded with a MultiCam option, which allows multiple cameras to improve accuracy and freedom of movement in larger volumes.
VTube-LASER Metronor M-Scan Video
Scan Larger Volumes with the M-Scan 120
Expanding to Larger Measurement Volumes
By adding cameras, the system can have a larger volume with better system accuracies. When using more than two cameras for any measurement, accuracy and repeatability are improved – even beyond Metronor DUO levels.
Also, adding cameras to a Metronor DUO system improves freedom of movement during measurement and increases measurement accuracy. By positioning cameras around the object and freely pairing any two or more of them, the operator can complete all measurements in a single session without worrying about camera or object repositioning.
How Does it Work?
The Metronor M-Scan 120 device uses a spherical LED-studded structure called a Navi Target embedded with a Nikon blue-line scanner. Two or more cameras monitor the M-Scan LEDs, from which they calculate the M-Scan structure's position and then the laser points. The system also includes a Metronor Lightpen for probing. The Lightpen included is the LP89 model, but it can also be purchased with a smaller LP55.
Calculating Accuracy
Calculate the 2 Sigma accuracy of this system with this formula: +/- 0.035 microns + Millimeter distance to the cameras / 70000
| Distance to Cameras | +/- Scanning System Accuracy | Scanning System Accuracy - Overall Envelope |
| 20 Feet (6096 mm) | 0.005 inches or 0.122 millimeters | 0.010 inches or 0.244 millimeters |
| 40 Feet (12192 mm) | 0.008 inches or 0.209 millimeters | 0.016 inches or 0.418 millimeters |
More Information on the Metronor Site
For more information at Metronor's site, see: https://metronor.com/scanning/
Technical Section - Switching from Scanner to Probe and Back
To switch from the M-Scan to the LP or vice versa in the other metrology software, we do it as follows:
- Disconnect the device from VTube-LASER.
- Switch from one device to the other inside the Metronor software.
- Reconnect VTube-LASER to the Metronor software.
About VTube-LASER Cut Planes with M-Scan 120
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