How a 3D scanner works

A 3D scanner is one of the relatively modern technological inventions that allows scanning objects in three-dimensional space. The difference between a simple scanner and a 3D scanner is essentially that the latter scans in three axes of space. In fact, immediately after their invention, these devices gained great popularity and began to be used in medicine, filmmaking, game design and many other areas of human activity.

How does an optical 3D scanner work?

The operating features of devices may differ slightly depending on the technology they use. Basically, the distance to an object is measured using a pair of integrated cameras and set lighting, then images coming from two angles are compared, and after processing the information received, the device displays a finished 3D model on its display. As for laser models, the model is built on the basis of readings calculated using a laser beam directed at an object.

There are only two basic types of scanning:

• Non-contact when X-rays or ultrasound are used. With their help, an image is obtained through the data of the reflected light flux.
• Contact, when the device analyzes the dimensions of an object using physical contact.

Reference! Devices with a contact operating principle are considered more accurate, however, during scanning with such a device, fragile objects can be damaged.

For optical scanning, safety class 2 lasers are used. The advantage of optical scanners is their speed. In addition, images obtained in this way are not distorted during the scanning process, even if the object is moving. The obvious disadvantage of such devices is that they are not capable of scanning either mirrored or even objects that simply reflect light.

Reference! Optical models are great for producing 3D models of people or animals.

What materials does it work on?

Optical 3D scanners use coordinate measuring devices during their operation, with the help of which the device builds the finished image. The use of such scanners does not imply “consumables”, except for the above-mentioned coordinate measuring devices.