The work of a 3d scanner involves the capture of shape and appearance, changing an object or an environment into a three-dimensional digital model. This process involves emitting a light source onto the surface of an object and then recording how the light is reflected back. The collected data points from the scanner create a point cloud, which is a large set of data points representing the surface geometry of the object. Accuracy of a 3D scan can range from 0.1 mm to 1 cm depending on the type of scanner and resolution used.
3d scanners play an important role in industrial applications, such as product design or reverse engineering, by converting physical objects into highly accurate digital models. For instance, GE deploys 3d Scanning for the inspection of parts in their jet engines to ensure that they are of high quality. In the automotive industry, companies such as Ford and Audi deploy 3d Scanning technology for the swift capture of vehicle parts and assemblies, thus reducing development time and enhancing accuracy in the design of parts.
The scanner normally uses a technique of laser triangulation or structured light to compile data. Laser triangulation scanners use a laser beam which strikes the object and takes the position of the laser point on the surface using a camera. By knowing the angle between the laser and camera, the distance to the surface at each point may be calculated by the scanner using the angle. The light scanners project a series of patterns onto the surface, then use a camera to analyze the distortion of these projected patterns, allowing high-precision data capture. Such methodologies are applicable for objects in vast scales, from tiny components to large-scale objects such as buildings or sculptures.
3D scanning has already changed the way that archaeologists record ancient artifacts and sites. For example, archaeologists use handheld 3D scanners to capture the intricate details of ancient pottery and fossils, digitally preserving them as the physical objects may deteriorate with time. The technology is allowing researchers to share high-quality, accurate models with other colleagues without risking actual damage to the fragile artifacts.
In medical industries, 3d scanners are now being increasingly employed for making prosthetics and implants. A patient’s limb can be scanned, a digital model created, and then the use of 3d printing fabricates a prosthesis that perfectly fits. The accuracy of 3d scanning technology has allowed the speed and comfort of prosthetic manufacturing to improve greatly; some devices boast scanning speeds of up to 50,000 points per second.
3d scanning technology is also applied in the construction industry, particularly in building information modeling (bim). Scanning the site enables one to obtain a digital twin of the environment for possible detection of design issues that may arise beforehand in the project. A company such as Trimble integrates 3D scanning with GIS (Geographical Information Systems) to help in the planning and management of construction projects with much ease.
Industries can be improved by the use of 3d scanner, in design accuracy, cost reductions of manufacture, and efficiency of the processes. The technology has transformed industries ranging from automotive to healthcare, providing fast, detailed, and accurate representations of physical objects and environments.