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3D scanners

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Automation of quality control

Author: Seeds PopaDYADYUK

Author: Semyon Popadiuk

Benefits of 3D Scanners | What tasks does 3D scanning solve | Criteria for choosing a 3D scanner | Professional 3D scanning for fast and efficient production solutions

Modern 3D scanners have a wide range of features and a variety of functionality. They are used everywhere - in manufacturing, construction, education, the entertainment industry and are used even in everyday life. In order to choose the scanner that suits your needs, there are a number of aspects to consider, which we will discuss in this article.

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Advantages of 3D Scanners

What is a 3D scanner? This is a device designed to quickly analyze a physical object and create its accurate 3D computer model. The principle of its operation is based on calculating the distance to the object using two cameras. In addition to the cameras, a backlight is used - LED or laser.

3D scanners are classified both according to their form of execution (stationary and portable) and according to the areas of use, mainly divided into professional and household.

3D scanners make it possible to significantly reduce the time and costs at the development stage, improve the quality of products and, ultimately, speed up the release of the product to the market. They can be used at any stage of product lifecycle management and will help to optimize the production process of enterprises in various industries, including:

• automotive,
• mechanical engineering,
• aerospace industry,
• oil and gas industry,
• shipbuilding,
• building and architecture,
• arts and culture,
• medicine,
• jewelry,
• science and education.

3D scanning devices remove many of the limitations of traditional measuring equipment. Such tools familiar to the metrologist as templates, micrometers, calipers are inexpensive, but they are characterized by subjective readings and are not suitable for complex measurements. Coordinate measuring machines are more accurate than 3D scanners, but they are more expensive, larger, and require specialized operator training.

Optical inspection systems, which include 3D scanners, are the best solution in terms of price and quality, as they provide:

• measurement speed,
• high precision digitization of objects of complex geometry,
• can work autonomously,
• are easy to operate.

Thanks to a 3D scanner, the work of a designer, technologist, and constructor is greatly facilitated: the performance of time-consuming complex measurements and the creation of a design from scratch are a thing of the past.

What tasks does 3D scanning solve

1. Quality control: the ability to check any geometric parameters, including input and output control, metrological control of parts and production equipment.
2. Reverse engineering of products for prompt receipt of project documentation and product upgrades.
3. Design and simulation for the purpose of prototyping and evaluation of the appearance of products, modernization of production facilities and equipment.
4. Digital archiving of any required assortment (eg discontinued parts). Models stored in digital libraries are available remotely from anywhere in the world.

3D scanner selection criteria

The main criterion is scanning accuracy . High-precision devices (10-30 microns) will help to get a phenomenal result: they are able to transfer the most complex surface geometry into 3D with minimal errors. Such 3D scanners are used in reverse engineering, quality control, medicine, and are used to digitize molds, device parts, etc. 3D scanners with an accuracy of 30–100 engineering.

ZG AtlaScan is the world's first 3D scanner with hole capture

When choosing a 3D scanner, you should also take into account resolution (detail) , i.e. the degree of discreteness that is available when digitizing an object. The highest level of detail allows you to display the smallest elements in the 3D model.

Р the size of the scanned objects and, accordingly, the mobility of the 3D scanner directly depend on the type of device that you select. When digitizing parts and objects of small and medium parameters, hand-held scanners are usually used. Stationary scanners are suitable for capturing complex small and medium-sized products with small details. Scanning of large objects (buildings, structures, communications) is performed using ground-based laser devices (range finders).

When studying the functionality of 3D scanners, pay attention to such points as the conditions of use, scanning speed, the surface of the scanned object, and color.

Please note that the next step after scanning is to obtain and further work with the CAD model, and for this you will need specialized software.

Processing 3D Scan Data for Reverse Engineering in Geomagic Design X Software

Professional 3D scanning for fast and efficient production solutions

iQB offers cutting-edge solutions that successfully operate in leading enterprises around the world:

• Portable devices for metrological 3D measurements from ZG Technology (China). The line includes a wide range of instruments, from an affordable handheld 3D scanner to a powerful optical tracking measurement system, as well as photogrammetry and portable CMM. ZG's unique strengths include the world's first handheld MarvelScan solution with three cameras for markless laser scanning and tracker, and proprietary instant hole capture technology. ZG Technology 3D scanners provide measurement speed up to 1 million 350 thousand points per second and accuracy up to 0. 01 mm.
• Stationary Russian-made RangeVision PRO 3D optical scanner is an industrial solution for metrology, available to companies of any level. The device is designed to digitize objects from 1 mm to 5 m and offers the highest level of accuracy (up to 0.018 mm) and 3D resolution (up to 0.04 mm). This is the first domestic 3D scanner approved by the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology as a type of measuring instrument.

RangeVision PRO Fixed Scanner Creates Yamaha R3 Sport Fairings with Improved Aerodynamics, High Strength and Lighter Weight

• Creaform handheld 3D scanners for digitizing products ranging in size from a few centimeters to 6 meters. The Go!SCAN series devices (including the latest Go!SCAN SPARK) are based on structured illumination technology; HandySCAN 3D and MetraSCAN 3D are laser devices that are certified industrial grade metrology tools. The new generation MetraSCAN BLACK|Elite model is the fastest handheld 3D laser scanner on the market (1. 8 million measurements per second). The volumetric accuracy that Creaform technology can provide is up to 80 microns per 16 cc. m.
• Creaform also produces 3D scanners and software under the peel 3d brand, combining affordability, ease of use and high quality. The line is designed to solve the problems of reverse engineering and digitalization of objects in such areas as art, preservation of cultural values, consumer goods, science and education, human body scanning. Peel 3d devices are capable of measuring objects from 0.3 to 3 m with an accuracy of 0.1 mm.

• Solutionix fixed optical 3D scanners for small objects (10-500 mm) with many small parts. Allow to receive an error less than 8 microns.
• FARO Focus 3D geodetic laser scanners perform fast and accurate scanning of large objects, complex structures, premises and landscapes. They operate in the range from 0.6 to 350 m, they are distinguished by increased accuracy, ease of operation and the ability to operate in the most difficult environmental conditions.
• EPiC budget 3D terrestrial laser scanners are based on the principles of simplicity, convenience and affordability. Their main advantages are super light weight, high shooting speed (from 30 to 90 seconds), 360-degree panoramic camera and the ability to control from a mobile device.

Many of the above scanners are included in the register of measuring instruments of the Russian Federation and have the appropriate certificates.

Robotic 3D scanning systems, such as Creaform MetraSCAN 3D-R, allow you to increase the speed and efficiency of quality control directly on the conveyor

A variety of 3D scanning devices on the market will allow you to choose exactly the model that is needed for solving specific problems. The price range is also wide: from simple devices costing up to $500 to high-precision professional 3D scanners costing tens and even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Article published on 05/25/2017, updated on 10/27/2022

04/16/2021

Content

• • What is 3D scanning and for which it is used by
  • How 3D scanner
  • 3D scanning technologies
  • Methods 3D 3D 3D 3D 3D 3D 3D 3D Methods -scans
    • Contact 3D scanners
    • Non-contact 3D scanners
  • Types of 3D scanners by usage
  • Advantages and disadvantages of 3D scanners
  • Things to consider when choosing a 3D scanner
  • Applications

Currently, few people are not familiar with such a concept as 3D printing. Many companies are using modern 3D printers with might and main, recreating layouts of various shapes and sizes with their help. There are also those that recreate whole objects - not only small ones (for example, phone cases, souvenirs, sneakers), but also large ones (houses, engine parts, etc. ). But all this would not be possible without 3D scanners. It is they who allow you to accurately copy almost anything - from huge buildings and structures to humans, animals, small objects and much more.

What is 3D scanning and what is it used for

Three-dimensional scanning is a technology that appeared in the 60s of the 20th century. It was created in order to transfer the physical parameters of the object into a digital format in the form of a three-dimensional model. The need for this naturally arose when people around the world increasingly began to use computers both in everyday life and in production.

The first samples of 3D scanners were quite simple and did not have wide functionality. Gradually, they became more complex and improved, making it possible to achieve an ever clearer image of the object. This has become especially relevant with the advent of lasers.

3D scanners allow you to transfer object data into digital format

3D scanning has opened up new opportunities in various areas of human activity - from the automotive industry and the military industry to design, medicine and cinema.

How a 3D scanner works

A 3D scanner is a device that examines an object by digitizing it using sensors and using the information received to create a three-dimensional model. In fact, a 3D scanner creates a digital copy of a physical object of any configuration and complexity. In this, it fundamentally differs from its predecessors - conventional scanners that can only read information from documents and photos.

The scanning process itself can take place in different ways - depending on the type of 3D device and the technology used, as well as on what object you want to process with it - moving or static.

3D Scanning Technologies

There are 2 main types of 3D scanners - laser and optical. Their fundamental difference lies in how and with the help of what the “removal” of data takes place. Let's take a closer look at both.

Laser 3D scanning, as the name implies, uses a laser and can be carried out both at short and long distances from the object.

Laser Scanner

For the most part, 3D laser scanners work on the principle of triangulation, when the camera finds a beam on the surface of an object and measures the distance to it, after which a cloud of points is created, each of which has its own coordinates in space, and a 3D model is built. Their "advantages" are affordable price and ease of use combined with high scanning accuracy. Of the "minuses" - there are restrictions on the remoteness and size of the object.

Another type of laser scanner works by measuring the response time of a beam from the surface of an object - the so-called laser range finder. They are widely used where it is necessary to create 3D models of various buildings and structures. It is not advisable to use them at short distances, since in such cases the response time is very short and the accuracy of the data is reduced. Otherwise, this type of scanner is characterized by high scanning speed and the ability to read all the details.

The disadvantage of laser scanners is the impossibility of their use on moving objects. Then optical 3D scanners come to the rescue, which shoot with one or more cameras from different angles an object illuminated by a special projector. Based on the received image, a three-dimensional image is built.

Optical scanner

A "contraindication" for the use of this technology are reflective and translucent surfaces - shiny, mirror or transparent. But when scanning a person, they are simply irreplaceable.

3D scanning methods

Any object can be digitized both by contact and non-contact methods. In the first case, active interaction with the subject is necessary, in the second, accordingly, no. Both of these methods have their advantages and disadvantages.

Contact 3D scanners

They have a mechanical probe with a special sensor that measures parameters and transmits the collected information to the device. To do this, the object under study is placed on a special surface and fixed (if necessary). Such tight physical contact makes it possible to determine and then build a 3D image as accurately as possible, however, there is a small risk of damage to the prototype.

Non-contact 3D scanners

This category includes all devices capable of scanning at a distance. This is especially true for objects located in hard-to-reach places.

Non-contact 3D scanner

A stream of radiation (it can be ultrasound, light, X-rays or a laser) is directed to the object and reflected from it, it is recognized by the 3D scanner. They are similar in principle to a video camera and may require the use of additional devices for better lighting.

Non-contact 3D scanners come in 2 types:

• Active - work with a laser beam or structured light directed at an object, which, when reflected, give information about the location of the object in the form of coordinates.

• Passive - use time-of-flight rangefinders that read the time and distance that the laser beam travels to the object, and so - for each point in space, which ultimately allows you to accurately recreate its three-dimensional image.

Desktop 3D scanners are very popular and widespread, since they are mostly simple and safe to use, do not require any special technical skills and are quite cheap. The EinScan-SE 3D scanner is one such example. It can be used both at home and in the office. It has access to the API of many popular 3D printers, which makes it possible to immediately print the created three-dimensional model.

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Types of 3D scanners according to the principle of use

There is also a variety of species here. Let's highlight the main ones:

• Manual: The are handy and simple models that are easy to use as they are quite compact and do not require special skills. True, their technical capabilities may be somewhat limited.

• Portable: are mainly used for field work, they are convenient to take with you.

• Desktop: have extended functionality and are used to create high-quality 3D models. Most often used in offices.

• Stationary: are used, as a rule, in production, various enterprises, as they can scan a large number of objects of the same type at once. Mounted on special turntables.

Handheld 3D Scanner Calibry

Such a choice of products allows you to select the right model for a specific task. In some cases, scanners independently measure objects, in others - with the help of a person who sequentially moves the device until all the necessary information is collected.

Such options for hand-held 3D scanners as Calibry are in high demand among buyers. Despite the apparent simplicity of execution, it has a high resolution and scanning accuracy, due to which it is able to digitize objects with a length of 0.2 to 10 meters. Objects that have a non-standard surface - dark or shiny, with a large number of corners and small details will not become a problem either. Among other things, its undoubted advantage is its low weight, only 900 grams.

Advantages and disadvantages of 3D scanners

Surely, many of the potential buyers are wondering: do you really need a 3D scanner to invest a lot of money in it? What can this acquisition give and will such an investment be justified?

3D scanning has become an integral part of any modern manufacturing process

In order to understand how much you need this equipment, we will list its advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits:

• They make it possible to scan objects located at a remote distance and in places inaccessible to the presence.

• They have the ability to "read" not only colors and images, but also to convey the texture of the surface.

• Significantly speed up the process of "taking" data from any object, even a very complex one with a large number of planes.

• A variety of models allows you to choose the most convenient version of the scanner, including manual or portable, which can be easily taken with you.

Weaknesses:

• Some scanners are unable to recognize transparent or black and white objects. In this case, their preliminary preparation (treatment with a special composition) is required.

• I do not always display complex objects correctly, with a large number of inserts and partitions.

• To obtain a high-quality result, they require skills and abilities to work with certain computer programs for creating 3D models.

• If the rules of operation are constantly violated, it may become necessary for expensive repairs to the equipment.

If you need high-precision and high-quality three-dimensional copies of objects, then you cannot do without a 3D scanner. It makes it possible to work in almost any conditions - indoors and outdoors, and with any objects by type and size. It is not surprising that now these devices are in great demand, which gives rise to the annual release of a large number of models, from which you can always choose the one that suits you in terms of quality and price.

Things to consider when choosing a 3D scanner

The computer equipment market offers a huge amount of all kinds of equipment, including devices for three-dimensional scanning. Navigating that variety is sometimes not at all easy: some buyers are only concerned about the cost, others are interested in the number of options (sometimes completely useless), but the most far-sighted look at the ratio of the first and second.

Choosing the right 3D scanner is a big deal

It is not always easy to take into account all the technical points that can significantly affect what result will be ultimately achieved. We will tell you what you should pay attention to if you are thinking about buying a 3D scanner.

Focus on the following parameters:

• How high is the accuracy of the 3D scanner. This is one of the most important features. It needs to be targeted first.

• Resolution also plays an important role. It follows from the first, since the accuracy of measurements and the quality of copying depend on the resolution.

• In what range the device operates, how close / far it can be from the scanned object.

• The scanning field is the parameters of that object, thing that it is able to process in 1 session.

• Does the scanner capture various atypical types of surfaces with complex terrain - channels, partitions, holes, etc.).

• Portability, mobility of the device - how easy it can be moved if desired, taken with you, its size.

• The time it takes to prepare for work, as well as the duration of the digitization process itself.

• The range of possibilities in terms of copying: are there any restrictions on shapes, textures, material, as well as operating conditions - temperature, light, etc.

Of course, the better the quality of the 3D scanner, the more expensive it is. However, you should focus primarily on the tasks that you face, and only then take into account everything else.

Applications

Three-dimensional scanners are in demand in many areas of human life. They are irreplaceable both in the industry, and for household needs. The range of their application is so wide that it is possible to list for a very long time. It's easier to say where they are not needed.

The most common areas of use are, of course, medicine, industry, architecture, construction, film industry and design.

For example, in dentistry, these devices allow you to create ultra-precise three-dimensional models of dentures. One type of such a scanner is Shining 3D's AutoScan DS-EX PRO, which does a great job with a variety of tasks while being quite affordable and reliable.

Medical 3D Scanner

In engineering, such technologies are also indispensable. Digital building prototypes are now much easier and faster to obtain than in the past, when it required multiple manual measurements and then entered into a database. Any physical object can now be recreated in three-dimensional form, moreover, in the shortest possible time and with a minimum error.

In cinemas, we can see with our own eyes "revived" fantastic characters, which were created using motion capture technology, which made them as realistic and impressive as possible. This would not have been possible without 3D scanners.

A few decades ago, it was even difficult to imagine all the things that we use all the time today. And in many ways this has become achievable thanks to three-dimensional digitization. This approach provides huge advantages in work (especially for technical specialists - engineers, designers, designers), however, in order to use them to the maximum, it is also necessary to understand computer programs for 3D scanning.

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