3D Scanning an Object. Key Steps
With cutting-edge 3D scanning technology, it is now possible to make exact digital copies of any object by recording its actual dimensions and shape. 3D scans that are both accurate and detailed are in high demand due to the meteoric rise of 3D printing.
"How to 3D Scan an Object?" is likely to be the first question that many newcomers to 3D scanning have. In this beginner-friendly guide, we'll show you the ropes, from selecting the best 3D scanner for your purposes to fine-tuning your scanning methods to produce photorealistic results.
What is a 3D Scan?
A 3D scan is a computerized portrayal of the subject of the scan. Using a 3D scanning app on your smartphone, tablet, or even a dedicated 3D scanning equipment, you may capture the three-dimensional shape of an object, person, or even an object's face. In order to create the final 3D file, the sensors of each device gather information on the item's shape, depth, and color.
Converting the 3D scan to a 3D file allows you to work with the final product using a 3D modeling program. With this, you may personalize your 3D scan to fit your needs, use it as an avatar in VR games, or even print it off. The object's transformation from its physical to its digital form occurs at that point.
How to Scan an Objct: A Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Get a Good 3D Scanner
Your needs should guide your selection of a 3D scanner. Handheld 3D scanners, tracking 3D scanners (3D optical measuring systems), and automated 3D systems are among the many varieties. Think about things like how big the object is, how complicated it is, and how much detail you need.
When working with little objects that require high precision, handheld 3D scanners are the way to go. For thorough scans of large items, opt for tracking 3D scanners. Automated 3D systems are the best option for tasks that require mass production because they streamline the process.
Step 2：Prepare the Object and Capture the Scans
The next step, after getting your 3D scanner and preparing your object, it is now time to 3D scan it. The real magic begins at this stage when you'll use your 3D scanner to record every minute detail.
You can read the manual for your specific 3D scanner to learn how to start taking scans. Most scanners require you to spin the device around the object to get different angles. Overlapping scans help construct a comprehensive 3D model.
Step 3：Post-Processing and Cleaning up the Scan Data
Post-processing is a vital step in polishing and enhancing your 3D images. It helps align several scans, fix flaws, and make an exact 3D model. You can accomplish this by using software tools designed for processing and improving scan data like SelfCAD. For example, you can import your files to the software then fill holes, as shown below.
You can also clean up 3D scans in SelfCAD with ease, as shown in the video below.
After modifying the 3D model, the next step will be to slice the files and generate the G-code to send to the 3D printer. SelfCAD comes with it’s own in-built online slicer and it is easy to use and compatible with most of the common FDM 3D printers. The video below shows how slice files in the software.
Best 3D Scanners in 2024
Some of the best 3D scanners that you can use to scan your images include:
1. EinScan H
Key Features
- Light Source: White LED, Infrared ray
- Accuracy: 0.05 mm + 0.1 mm/m (white light mode), 0.1mm +0.3 mm/m (IR mode)
- Resolution: 0.2 mm
- Scanning speed: 1,200,000 points/s, white light mode, 1,060,000 points/s, IR mode
The EinScan H is a capable mid-range professional portable 3D scanner that combines infrared and structured light with a hybrid light source. The structured light is tailored for broad, quick scanning, while the infrared is tuned to catch fine details, including challenging reflections and darker hues.
The EinScan H can catch minute details like hair on a human subject and even color because of its 0.25 mm resolution and 0.05 mm accuracy. Large item scanning is a breeze for this featherweight 703g scanner, which can record 1,200,000 points per second in a scan area of 420 x 440.
Although we would anticipate that all of this would be expensive, EinScan has done well to provide significant value at a reasonable $5,000 cost—a good option for applications in forensics, art conservation, and healthcare.
2. EinScan Pro HD
Key Features:
- Light Source: White LED
- Volumetric accuracy: 0.05 mm + 0.3 mm/m
- Resolution: 0.2 mm
- Scanning speed: 3,000,000 points/s
The EinScan Pro HD is the next step up in the EinScan scanner ladder. Delivering high-quality scans appropriate for 3D modeling is this project's main goal, emphasizing small details comparable to those of stationary scanners. The scanner accomplishes this for less than $10,000 with precise 0.045 mm accuracy and 0.2 mm resolution. The EinScan Pro HD is small and reasonably light, capturing up to 310 x 204 mm at a rate of 3,000,000 points/s.
Furthermore, the EinScan Pro HD stands out for excellently capturing dark, metal, and shaded surfaces. We see it as a powerful instrument for manufacturing, engineering, and the automobile industry.
3. Artec Eva
Key Features
- 3D accuracy: Up to 0.1 mm
- 3D resolution: Up to 0.2 mm
- Object size: Starting from 10 cm
- Full-color scanning: Yes
- Target-free tracking: Hybrid geometry and color based
Artec, which has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best 3D scanner producers, tops our list with the robust Artec Eva, a workhorse that combines portability and versatility. It is appropriate for various applications, including forensics, aerospace, computer graphics, and prosthetics. The scanner excels at scanning medium-sized items, especially those with dark and reflective surfaces. It can produce highly realistic, texture-rich 3D models of anything from machine parts to human faces.
The Artec Eva has a whopping 18,000,000 points/s, 16 FPS, 0.1 mm precision, and 0.2 mm resolution, with a scan area of 536 371 mm. Or, to put it another way, a quick and precise handheld 3D scanner. The model is priced between $16000-$17000.
Enjoy powerful modeling, rendering, and 3D printing tools without the steep learning curve.
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