From 3D scanning to downstream applications
Transforming a physical object into digital 3D model.
Original object for 3D scanning
Digital 3D coordinates collected from the scanner
It is difficult to get precise measurements from objects with complex shapes using conventional methods such as calipers or rulers. 3D scanning is a fast way to collect surface measurements from physical objects into 3D digital form accurately with repeatable results. 3D scanners are becoming more widely adopted due to their affordability and versatility. Many industries use 3D scanning as part of their processes to improve efficiency and product quality.
The process of analyzing the construction of a product with the intention of developing a similar or an improved design.
Data collected from the physical part using a 3D scanner
Part designed using scan data captured from a 3D scanner
Industry parts no longer in production (ie. car parts) or lacking the original design documents can use 3D scanning to capture the information needed for reproduction. Using a 3D scanner, product designers and engineers can quickly and accurately obtain precise measurements of an existing object for reference instead of designing from a blank slate, saving valuable time and money. Scan data contains all the measurement information that serves as a guide to model scanned data into a CAD model, the conceptual design of a part ready for production. During this stage, additional features or details can also be added, modified, or edited to the part in the final design.
Learn how two-time Olympic medalist redesigned a new hybrid kayak/canoe for his races.
Quality control against manufacturing defects by comparing 3D scan data from a physical object against a CAD model.
3D measurements collected from the physical part with 3D scanning
Conceptual design of the part
Measurement deviations are shown when the two are put together
Detailed report for further analysis
In an ideal world every manufactured part would be an identical replica of the CAD model, the design blueprint of the part. In reality, every physical part that is manufactured has slight variations. Tolerances are acceptable deviations from the CAD model. By 3D scanning manufactured parts and comparing the measurements with the CAD model, we can determine whether the part meets acceptable tolerances. First article inspection is the thorough analysis of the first part created in production to ensure the manufacturing process is setup correctly. In-line inspection refers to the process of automatically passing or failing parts (go/no-go operation) in a factory assembly line by comparing the part’s scan data against specified tolerances, reducing time and eliminating errors associated with manual inspection. In both types of the inspection process, comprehensive reports can be generated for further analysis with the use of inspection software.
Monitoring measurement for variations and analysis.
3D scanning is particularly useful for research studies related to examining and comparing the physical similarities and differences between two or more related objects. In the field of paleontology, information can be inferred about a specimen’s genetics, environment, evolutionary changes, and how it lived by examining an organism’s biological structure—its shape and size. Geometric morphometrics is a comparative study of complex biological structures by referencing a set of common anatomical landmark points (digital 3D coordinates) across different specimens. 3D scanning provides an efficient method for data collection and statistical analysis. Researchers can compare these coordinates across specimens to see how they relate or differentiate from one another.
Spend less time on data collection, and more time on statistical analysis. Learn how 3D scanning will transform the way you conduct your research, including a research report that demonstrates the use of 3D scanning to study facial morphology.
3D printing for use in commercial applications.
Additive manufacturing builds a part by fusing layers of material together as though you are printing in 3D space. On the other hand, subtractive manufacturing carves out an object from a solid block of material using a CNC milling machine. Additive or subtractive manufacturing are synonymous to rapid prototyping because it is a fast and low cost way for engineers to make design prototypes in small batches. Through these manufacturing techniques, a model can be reproduced in small/large scale simply by 3D scanning and reducing/enlarging its measurements accordingly for production. Artists and sculptors recreate their art form from small prototypes into large-scale models using this method.
3D scanning, together with additive/subtractive manufacturing, also opens the doors to create customized products. 3D scanners have become valuable in the medical field as they capture vast amounts of face and body measurements in a matter of seconds. Since each person is unique in their physical appearance, medical practitioners can use these measurements to create customize medical products for their patients (ie. orthotics, prosthetics, sleep apnea masks, mouth guards).
Learn how powerful emerging technologies—from 3D scanning, 3D modeling to 3D printing—provided a new perspective on an exhibition to enhance the museum experience.
Modeling an object digitally into 3D form by referencing an existing object rather than creating from scratch for viewing or digital archiving.
3D scanning reduces the amount of time needed for projects that require a vast volume of items to be modeled in 3D. This is especially true for creating CGI in video games, animation, TV production, and movies. Through the process of 3D scanning, visual artists can digitize objects and people and use them as a starting point for modeling that saves time and headaches. 3D scanning is also great for archiving and preserving collections into digital format without compromising on quality (ie. products for an ecommerce store, digitize artifacts for a virtual museum). 3D scanners can capture color and texture to preserve an object’s true likeness. The information is stored digitally so it can be access at anytime. If the object is delicate, non-contact 3D scanning captures the measurement without contact.
