The 3dCam-1 is a laser range-finder, with a variable field-of-view. It uses a single laser stripe, a single camera, and relies on a frame-grabber to acquire and process images. Because it can be used with 3d Explorer software, it is capable of making real-time measurements. The 3dCam-1 is designed for robot mounting in harsh environments. It comes with a heat shield and various other environmental protection features. The images show the 3dCam-1 laser range finder in use to characterise an advanced sheet metal forming process in an aerospace environment.