The JS-20 scan head's capabilities are based on known distances and simple trigonometry.  The basic steps of the scanning process are:

1) The built in laser projects a line on the surface of the object.
2) The built in camera views the laser as it intersects the object.
3) Using trigonometry the dimensions at hundreds of points along the laser line are calculated.

The resulting scan data can be used to more precisely align cutters or other machinery, increasing production efficiency and quality control.