3D scanning has emerged as a modern and innovative device that enables users to perform geometric data on object surfaces and carry out analysis that is impossible for traditional two-dimensional means. Whether the person is developing a new product, searching for a quality control method, or even reconstructing an artifact, 3D scanning technology provides accuracy and the ability to save time. This blog post explains the 3D scanning technology, its operation method, and its usage in prototyping and reverse engineering industries.
What is 3D Scanning?
Simply put, 3D scanning refers to the work of capturing and modeling data from an actual object to create a model. Thus, it is possible to use these models for reverse engineering and quality assurance, to make a replica of the original design, or to modify it. The high accuracy and degree of detail that come with 3D scanners make the tool very useful in production, health, and other industries.
3D scanning techniques have tremendously changed the way physical objects are duplicated and analyzed. As a result, when we point a 3D scanner at an object, we can create a replica in the virtual world that can be used in further design work, analysis, or even physical utilization in rapid 3D prototyping.
How Does 3D Scanning Work?
3D scanning encompasses creating the dimensions of a physical object using lasers, structured light, or photogrammetry. It is accumulated as millions of points marked as ‘point cloud.’ This point cloud is then turned to work its 3D model to suit a specific function. There are several methods used in 3D scanning:
Laser 3D Scanning: Now let us talk about one of the most popular 3D scanning techniques, Laser scanning. A laser beam is placed at the object’s surface, and the reflected laser beam is mapped at different points of the object. The gathered data is then used to form a point cloud, which can perfectly represent the actual object surface. Laser 3D is renowned for its flexibility in capturing intricate shapes and surface features and therefore, defines industries that require accuracy.
Photogrammetry: In this technique, a single object is photographed from several angles, resulting in several images. Specialized software compares these images to work out the relative position of the object to recreate the 3D object. Photogrammetry may lack the accuracy of laser scanning, but the latter can do smaller surveys at a more affordable price.
Structured Light Scanning: Structured light techniques illuminate patterns of light on the surface of an object. When the light is reflected on the object and its shape, the scanner’s photographic cameras determine the distortions in the pattern. All this data is used to make a very accurate 3D map of the subject. It can be helpful for facial recognition or scans of some medical kind.
The 3D Scanning Process
Laser scanning is one of the most efficient ways of producing 3D scan models, and it is very accurate. Here’s a detailed look at how the laser 3D scanning process works:
1. Data Acquisition using 3D Laser scanning
The scanning platform then enables the placement of the object that has to be scanned. The scanner then uses a laser probe that scans the object’s surface while projecting a laser line. Two sensor cameras monitor the positions of the laser line, both about the face or object and their distance from the face, capturing the shapes of the face and object in X, Y, and Z. The scanning process is speedy; for example, millions of data points per second can be scanned.
2. Generating the Point Cloud
When the laser targets an object, the obtained information is stored and forms a point cloud. This point cloud simply depicts a model containing millions of points to model the object’s geometry precisely. As a rule, the scanner acquires up to 750,000 points per second, thus guaranteeing the study of the object’s surface, even in minor details.
3. Post-Processing and Modeling
After the point cloud data is obtained, the next step is processing the data into a usable 3D model. Depending on the application, the model can be used for different purposes:
Inspection: If the 3D scan has been taken for quality control or inspection, then the point cloud can be easily matched with the actual CAD model. Discrepancies between the scan data and the CAD model are displayed on a color map deviation report.
Reverse Engineering: To effectively reverse engineer the object of interest, the data acquired as a point cloud is transformed into a 3D CAD model. This model can mimic the geometry of the object or reshape it when the designing process is to be changed. The data allows replication or escalation of objects that often may not have initial architectural drawings.
Applications of 3D Scanning
Prototyping & Design: The 3D scan allows for the preparation of virtual models for use by the CAD for design manipulations and as a reference tool in 3D printing products or production.
Quality Control and Inspection: Sections such as aerospace and automotive use 3D scans to measure dimensions against the models created.
Reverse Engineering: 3D scanning reconstructs geometry to create CAD models to reproduce or redesign actual objects.
Healthcare: Prosthetics and implants are manufactured by scanning the body to fit the medical product to the patient’s size and shape.
Cultural Preservation: This technology of 3D scanning is then applied at Museums for research purposes, for display, and even to preserve artifacts.
Conclusion
3D scanning is an efficient tool that has become pervasive and influential in industries based on creating fast, accurate, and detailed digital models of objects in the physical environment. The process enables real-world object replication, inspection, and modification, from laser scanning via photogrammetry to structured light. Regardless of the application – prototyping, quality control, reverse engineering, or cultural heritage – 3D scanning unveils excellent digital manufacturing and designing opportunities.
If you wish to embrace this progressive technology, kindly seek the services of professional 3D scanning services to digitize objects for all necessary projects in the given industries.