This dissertation aims at performing the metrological characterization of three-dimensional optical scanners by structured light projection for application in ballistic vest tests. Three-dimensional scanning techniques have been gaining popularity in recent decades, however the recent use of 3D scanning equipment in ballistic vests testing is a new application for these devices, especially in the characterization of traumas caused by projectile impacts, which motivated the realization of the study. The methodology used was based on bibliographic, documentary, experimental and laboratory research aimed at collecting data using a structured light projection scanner in the context of ballistic vests tests and comparing them with reference values. Procedures for alignment, segmentation, filtering and establishment of reference planes were suggested, which proved to be adequate for the treatment of point clouds obtained from ballistic vest tests. The results confirmed the systematic errors reported in the literature for structured light scanning equipment and made it possible to estimate the measurement uncertainty for the equipment in question. It was concluded that the critical trauma measurement values are correctly measured by the 3D scanning instrument and by using the suggested method for treating point clouds in this context.