3D Scans
What’s a 3D scan?
(and why would I want one)
3D scanners convert real-world, physical objects into a map of digital data points. These data points are then compiled mathematically by software into a “Point Cloud,” a set of location points marking a measured dimension in space representing the shape of a single object or a complex scene.
Scanners can define objects that are difficult to draw with CAD.
Scanners work by shining laser beams onto an object and measuring the time it takes for the light to bounce back to a sensor. 3D scans make it possible to create detailed and realistic images. The collected point data measures the distance between the scanner and the object, allowing software to build a highly accurate 3D representation of the object’s surface.
STL (STereoLithography) file format represents a 3D model as a collection of triangles, where each triangle is defined by the data coordinates of its three vertices. Surface Tessellation is an arrangement of polygons closely fitted together in repeated patterns without gaps or overlapping vertices. This is referred to as a “mesh” in 3D modeling software. STL is a widely used standard for 3D printing and other mesh editing applications.
How it works…
Each point in the cloud corresponds to a specific location on the object’s surface. They also contain information about the location’s position, color, or texture.
By plotting these points in 3D space, a point cloud can represent the shape of an object or scene and visualize its form, details and features.
Meet Laurana
Francesco Laurana, c. 1430, was an Italian-born sculptor who spent his career moving between Naples, Sicily, and Urbino and was considered one of the more significant sculptors of the 15th century. His famous statue, Laurana, has become immortalized as the subject of countless 3D scans and prints.
One notable example is the Factum Foundation for Digital Technology in Conservation, a non-profit organization based in Madrid, Spain, that specializes in the use of advanced digital technologies for the preservation, documentation, and study of cultural heritage sites and artifacts.
In 2015, Factum Foundation scanned the Laurana statue using a combination of 3D scanning and photogrammetry techniques, creating a highly detailed digital model of the sculpture that can be viewed 3D printed and studied in detail.
3D printing and digital scanning demonstrates the potential of these technologies for the preservation and study of cultural heritage sites and artifacts. By creating high-quality digital models of sculptures and other objects, these technologies can make it possible for people around the world to study and appreciate these works of art.
Scans are a creation engine.
3D scans have a wide range of uses in design, manufacturing and the arts:
- Industrial design
- Jewelry
- Fine art
- Reverse engineering
- Artifact preservation
- Robotics
- Virtual (VR) Augmented Reality (AR)
Let’ scan something…
What kind of files do I get?
3D scanned meshes are delivered as either STL files for printing or as OBJ files with contain not only the mesh data but color and object texture information as well. If the scan is to be used later for reverse-engineering in a CAD software application additional file formatting may also be required.
What type of objects scan best?
The optimal surfaces for a 3D scanner to capture depend on the type of 3D scanner being used and the desired output. In general, the following characteristics are best:
1. Matte surfaces are preferred over glossy surfaces as they do not reflect as much light.
2. Uniform surfaces are easier for the scanner to capture as they have fewer irregularities that can cause inaccuracies in the point cloud data.
3. Transparent surfaces can be challenging to scan as the scanner can have difficulty distinguishing between the object and the background. Non-transparent surfaces are best.
4. Textures or patterns can aid in the scanning process by providing reference points to accurately capture the shape of the object.
What are the scan limitations?
Based in Scottsdale, Arizona 3DP will 3D scan in our studio only. This way we may control and optimize lighting conditions during scanning to produce the best results.
Customers can ship their objects to 3DP or schedule an appointment to drop them off in person if they are in the area. In rare cases we will scan on-location if the object is not movable. The scanning capture of a project typically takes between 4 to 6 hours depending on resolution and object complexity.
3D Done that!
We want to make 3D scans accessible to all– especially those who have not used the technology before. Contact 3DP if you have questions about scanning or the 3D process.
What do customers say about 3DP…
I based my decision on reaching out to Dan at 3DP Print & Scan based on their solid reviews, and they did not disappoint. Dan has a wealth of experience in a lot of art and design areas… knowledge that is vital in getting your project vision right.
— MIME B.
3DP was fantastic! From initial conversation, to prototype, to the finished product was just over a week. Couldn’t have been happier with the work, good communication and a great outcome.
— JON E.
3DP was fantastic! From initial conversation, to prototype, to the finished product was just over a week. Couldn’t have been happier with the work, good communication and a great outcome.
— HF& ASSOC.
3DP can demystify the 3D scan and print process to help you better take advantage of it. Do you have a project in mind but no idea where to start? We can help you create scanned 3D models and prints from your detailed specs, some photographs or a simple sketch.