3d scanning is becoming popular along with additive manufacturing across multiple industries. Be it construction, automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing; there are several 3d scanning applications. This advanced technology not only streamlines the scanning job but also offers higher productivity.
Similar to additive manufacturing, 3d scanning is also broad, and there are two types of scanners: time-of-flight & phase-based. The time-of-flight scanners measure distance by projecting a laser beam on an object and calculating how long it takes to bounce back. It’s a highly accurate and faster scanning technology.
On the other hand, phase-based scanners emit a laser beam towards an object and measure the overall phase-shift of the returning laser to find out the distance. Regardless of what scanning method you opt for, the measurement is collected to create a point cloud. It is an accurate 3d representation of the object. On this note, let’s explore the top five things that you might not know about 3d scanning technology.
Using your smartphone as a scanner
The image is used for illustration purposes. Zeal 3D Printing is not the owner or creator of the image. (Image Source: Tom Claes on Unsplash)
Apart from professional 3d scanning services, you can also use your smartphone to get the job done. There are several accurate 3d scanning apps available for both Android and iOS. Individuals can quickly scan objects or a space using the device’s camera. In addition, the apps let users edit and optimize the scanned image and share it on the go. Along with this, you can attach a portable structured-light sensor to improve the accuracy and detail.
Scanning film is better than scanning prints
If you are starting with scanning, it’s a pro tip to use negatives instead of a print as it offers you better dynamic range and resolution. You can use a 35mm negative film as it has more colour information in different layers than what a print can produce. Even if you are scanning a large object, the negatives will offer you the best scan convenience. It is because it has more contrast, colour information, and luminance. You will easily find many companies that provide professional 3d scanning in Australia to meet all your requirements.
Scanning is much easier than you think
When we think of laser scanning services, it often sounds complicated, but it’s not. Traditional scanners tend to be more complex to use as they have several manual settings. On the other hand, the modern 3d scanners come with correct default settings that save your time. You don’t have to spend endless hours setting up the scanner to get the accurate output. You can precisely collect data using a handheld or other scanner and import the raw data into CAD software.
Better prefabrication
The image is used for illustration purposes. Zeal 3D Printing is not the owner or creator of the image.
When it comes to scanning structural elements, you need the best 3d scanning services for prefabrication. It’s critical to get the structural elements right so that you can install the prefabricated components correctly. You can easily avoid any mistake by using a 3d scanner. You can integrate a 3d scanner with the BIM process and take accurate prefabrication measurements. Higher accuracy improves the overall stability of components that will be built later.
Easier maintenance
Whether it’s an architectural design or an industrial machine, post-manufacturing maintenance is essential. It allows engineers to check the overall design functionality and detect flaws in real-world conditions. Using a 3d scanner can ease the job and offer higher accuracy in collecting post-production maintenance data. Instead of traditional methods, opting for 3d scanning and modeling can help you speed up the process and save you resources and money.
Wrapping up
3D scanning is a performance-driven technology that eases several complex manual precision and accuracy-related tasks. Whether in streamlining construction challenges or optimizing a product’s design, this advancement can help. Considering the ongoing demand, several professional companies offer 3d scanning in Melbourne and other cities to get started.
