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Build your own 3d scanner
6 DIY 3D Scanners You Can Build at Home
Creating a 3D model of a real object can be done extremely fast if you have a 3D scanner at home. The problem is: 3D scanners are expensive to buy new.
If you're looking for a solution, why not try building your own affordable 3D scanner at home? It might not create perfect 3D models, but it's a cost-effective alternative to buying a 3D scanner.
Is It Cheaper to Build a DIY 3D Scanner?
The cost of buying a decent 3D scanner ranges from $700 to $10,000 at the highest end. On the other hand, building a DIY 3D scanner can cost less than $200—some even as little as $35.
Depending on the resolution of your homemade 3D scanner, you will still have to work to tidy up the 3D model so that it can be used for things like 3D printing, game development, or perhaps design prototyping. But overall, it will still speed up the design process when compared to building a model from scratch.
1. Cheap 3D Printed 3D Scanner
This 3D scanner is built using 3D printed parts, featuring both open source software and open source hardware files. If you choose to install the maximum of four lasers, then the cost of the project comes in at $35 to $50. Once it's built, handling the digital scan will require some legwork to smooth out. But considering its price tag, it's well worth giving it a go.
You can find the STL files and a full build guide on Instructables. Besides the 3D printed components, you will need one to four lasers, a stepper motor, a turntable, and an Arduino Nano to bring it all together. One benefit of this project is that it's been built many times by community makers, resulting in plenty of images and feedback surrounding the project to help fill in any gaps.
2. DIY 3D Scanner Using a DSLR Camera
Another option for building a 3D scanner is to use a DSLR camera and a method called photogrammetry. At its most basic, it involves taking a lot of images of an object from different angles and stitching those photos together in a software program to create a 3D model.
Alongside a DSLR camera, you will need an Arduino, a stepper motor and driver, an LCD screen, and an IR LED.
The goal of the hardware is to build a rotating platform that moves by set amounts so that your camera can photograph the object in a very detailed and controlled way. You can find a great explanation of the project on Instructables.
The real difficulty of this project comes in processing the photos. A good photogrammetry program is essential, and that can cost over $150 to license. There is some free software available, but it may come with limitations.
If you're wondering if there is an alternative solution, you can read our guide to how to turn everyday objects into 3D models without a 3D scanner.
3. Optical CT/3D Scanner With Arduino
For something a little different, in this project you will build a 3D scanner that also doubles as an optical CT scanner. This type of scanner will do the trick if you have objects that are semi-transparent, like a gummy bear or a segment of orange. Otherwise, you can use this setup with the photogrammetry method for regular 3D scans.
Everything in this build is enclosed inside a box. This allows greater control over lighting the object to produce sharper images. While it involves some woodworking and construction, the hardware is still powered by a humble Arduino Nano, plus additional parts that you can find at any hardware store.
A great guide is available on Instructables for building the box, alongside details for creating a sleek control panel for changing photo parameters on the go.
4. FabScan: Raspberry Pi + Arduino 3D Scanner
This 3D scanner uses both a Raspberry Pi and an Arduino to build a 3D laser scanner. What sets this build apart is that it can be operated remotely via a web browser on a phone.
Much like other DIY 3D scanners, a stepper motor and driver are used to rotate a turntable holding the object you want to scan. Additionally, you will need a line laser and a Raspberry Pi camera. You can find the guide and a full components list on Instructables.
While the creators have gone with a laser-cut MDF box, you can just as easily use spare parts lying around the home to create the enclosure.
Alternatively, cardboard can work too, and painting it black will aid in diffusing the laser light so that it doesn't interfere with the scan.
Once you have a good scan of your object, you might be interested in 3D printing it. Haven't got a 3D printer? Here is our pick of the best 3D printers.
5. The Ultimate Human Sized 3D Scanner With Raspberry Pi
While most homemade 3D scanners are built to capture a small object, it's also possible to build a human-sized 3D scanner. The way to do this is with a lot of Raspberry Pis, as you can see over on Instructables.
The maker behind this project scaled up his 3D scanner using a whopping 47 Raspberry Pis plus a Raspberry Pi camera for each module. The goal was to use the photogrammetry method to take a photo of his subject from every possible angle. Because he wanted to capture a 3D model of his two-year-old son, this all had to happen instantly.
Incredibly, it works, and it works very well too. If you have the time and investment to buy a box full of Raspberry Pis, you won't be disappointed because the results are impressive.
The maker says you can use fewer Pis and cameras and still get good results, especially if you only need to capture the front of a person’s face.
6. Standalone 3D Scanner
Maybe you're just after a simple and small 3D scanner that you can make over the weekend. If so, then this project will suit you. This 3D scanner on Instructables is designed to be all-in-one, meaning that the photos are compiled onboard and an STL file is saved directly to a memory card. Instead of compiling the photos in a separate photogrammetry program, this 3D scanner handles them for you.
While it doesn't produce incredibly detailed scans, it does make for a rapid way to take a 3D model straight to 3D printing. One thing to bear in mind, however, is that the dimensions of the 3D scanner structure need to be kept exactly as written in order to match the code.
Building a Homemade 3D Scanner
Putting together a 3D scanner at home isn't extremely difficult to achieve. When compared to the expensive price of commercial 3D scanners, it's well worth building a DIY 3D scanner yourself.
With a Raspberry Pi or Arduino and a few extra affordable parts, you'll be well on your way to creating a cheap and awesome 3D scanner.
9 Accurate DIY 3D Scanners You Can 3D Print At Home (2022)
3D scanners can get really expensive. We’d know – we’ve tested and researched them in creating our ranking of the best 3D scanners . However, if you’re willing to be a little more thrifty you can save a lot of money building your own DIY 3D scanner — and have a cheap 3D scanner you can feel proud of building yourself!
DIY projects, especially in an area where precision is key, have an unfairly slap-dash reputation. In fact, there are some very accurate DIY 3D scanners on our list, you just need to assemble them yourself.
The best part: they’re almost free if you 3D print the parts — your only costs are the camera/parts.
However, don’t be fooled – you won’t get $20,000-quality scans from these kits. And it takes focus and skill to build such a technical piece of kit – hence we’ve included a couple of easy-assemble kits which cost more, but let you get right down to scanning.
For the DIY kits, we’ve included download links and links to documentation to get you started.
What Makes a Good DIY 3D Scanner?
- Price-performance ratio: for the price, how good are scans?
- Resolution: how crisp is scan quality
- Accessibility: you may be able to print most of the 3D scanner, but are the rest of the parts easy to buy?
- Ease of assembly and use: quick and easy builds are always better. The best 3D scanner projects can be built by anyone, newbie or expert.
3D Printable 3D Scanners
Ciclop DIY 3D scanners
Many of the best DIY scanner kits are based on the original Ciclop open-source files. Massive companies like BQ have created their version, as well as tweaked versions such as CowTech Engineering’s take.
We’ve included them all here, as each option are some of the most DIY accurate 3D scanner options for this price range. For a pre-assembled scanner with the same quality, you’d likely need to spend double this.
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BQ Ciclop
- Resolution: 0.3-0.5mm
- DIY 3D scanner technology: laser triangulation
- Price: around $150 — Available on Amazon worldwide here
BQ are a Spanish technology giant who are well-known across Europe for their smartphones, tablets, and 3D printers. They’ve also developed their Ciclop DIY 3D scanner, which scans a volume up to 250 x 205 mm, based on laser triangulation technology.
An important feature of the BQ Ciclop is that it’s a completely open source 3D scanner. You’re free to modify it as you wish, following the RepRap philosophy. It’s easily accessible via USB or Bluetooth, and can 3D scan with a resolution of between 0.3-0.5mm.
- We also have a ranking of the best open source 3D printers.
Another great addition to this DIY 3D scanner is that it works with Horus open source 3D scanning suite which BQ also developed. This makes scanning much easier with the compatible program. You can buy just the electronics (includes an Arduino, webcam etc) and print the parts yourself for $115, or buy the whole kit for $240. Not bad.
However, it is worthy of note that the BQ Ciclop is difficult to assemble. Other DIY 3D scanners are quicker and simpler to build, though the Ciclop is still a fantastic DIY 3D digitizer.
Murobo Atlas — Great Raspberry Pi 3D Scanner
- Resolution: 0.25mm
- DIY 3D scanner technology: laser triangulation technology
- Price: $200-250 — Available on Amazon worldwide here
Another homemade 3D scanner, the Atlas has the highest quality specs of any DIY 3D scanner we researched. It includes a 3D printed body made from PLA and ABS filaments, which can be purchased online.
If you’re a serious DIY fanatic, you can print the parts yourself via the download link here.
Depending on if you already own a Raspberry Pi or not, you can save money on the build. This is because the Atlas DIY 3D scanner uses a Raspberry Pi camera to take detailed 3D scans with an accuracy of 0.25mm. Depending on your choice, the Atlas is likely to cost between $200 and $250, which is far less than most professional 3D scanners.
Moreover, Murobo has made considerable efforts to make sure that the Atlas DIY 3D scanner is convenient and simple to use. To achieve this, the Atlas comes with FreeLSS free 3D software which enables you to easily take 3D scans. In addition, you can access your Atlas via your computer’s browser through WiFi, as well as via SD card.
Overall, this DIY 3D scanner Raspberry Pi collaboration is a really interesting and creative way of combining several different innovative technologies to create a scanning device. If you’re an Arduino fan instead, you may be able to make it work for you too.
CowTech Ciclop
- Price: $119 – $159 (depending on whether you’re 3D printing the parts or not) — Available on Amazon here
- Resolution: 0.5 mm
- Maximum scan volume: 200 x 200 x 205 mm
BQ formed the foundations of the DIY 3D scanner kit, and remains one of the best DIY 3D scanner on tight budget options. Then back in 2015, CowTech Engineering used the foundations led by BQ, putting their unique spin on an updated model.
True to the open source movement, Cowtech started a Kickstarter campaign to raise money to put their version of the original, the CowTech Ciclop, into production. The team set the lofty goal to raise $10,000, and were met with surprise when the community rallies to raise $183,000. The CowTech Ciclop DIY 3D scanner kit was born.
So what are the differences between CowTech’s version and BQ’s DIY 3D scanner?
The CowTech Ciclop still uses the Horus 3D software program as it does a fantastic shop for 3D scanning objects.
Differences however include a slightly different design, which the team spent days designing so that the parts could be 3D printed on any FDM 3D printer. Some desktop 3D printers only have a small build volume, so CowTech designed parts that can be printed on any printer with a build volume of 115 x 110 x 65 mm, which almost all 3D printers have.
Additionally, CowTech’s Ciclop has adjustable laser holders, and whereas the BQ Ciclop uses threaded rods, CowTech’s DIY 3D scanner uses laser-cut acrylic. This isn’t anything drastic and the scanners still look fairly similar, but CowTech only intended to improve the existing design, not reform it. CowTech sell the Ciclop, ready-to-scan, for $159 on their website. Overall, this is a great cheap DIY 3D scanner, and very effective for laser triangulation 3D scanning.
OpenScan Classic and OpenScan Mini
- Max Scan Volume: 180 x 180 x 180 mm / 80 x 80 x 80 mm
- Accuracy: Up to 50 microns
- DIY 3D scanner technology: Photogrammetry
- Price: Starting at $100.
00 up to $200.00 for a complete kit with 3D printed parts and electronic
The Mini and Classic are two low-cost but high-quality 3D printed DIY scanner projects designed by German company OpenScan. In action, the OpenScan uses a stepper motor mounted to a 3D printed frame to rotate an object to capture images from various angles. These are then compiled into a high-quality 3D model using open-source software or OpenScanCloud, ready for 3D printing.
Where the OpenScan Classic and Mini differ from one another is max scan volume and camera/SBC options. The Mini features an 80 x 80 x 80 mm scan volume, while the Classic more than doubles the scan volume to a roomy 180 x 180 x 180 mm, perfect for scanning larger objects.The Openscan Mini – the cheaper and smaller 3D printable 3D scanner.
The OpenScan Mini is tied to a Raspberry Pi and only works with either a Pi Camera or Arducam IMX 519 and includes one-click easy scanning.
This allows the completed scanner to rotate not just the object but also the camera for a more detailed point cloud.
On the other hand, the OpenScan Classic is also compatible with Smartphones and DSLR cameras, which generally means better quality photos and, as a result, higher-quality models. It’s the tinkerer’s option and better suited for those that want to customize the scanner to their needs.
OpenScan offers a solution for all DIY skill levels and budgets, whichever model you decide on. You can customize kits based on your needs or order a complete kit that includes all the electronics and 3D printed parts.
The full assembly guide is here.
AAScan Open Source 3D Scanner Based on Arduino and Android
AAScan is a very recent (February 2020) DIY open source 3D scanner that’s fully automated in taking photos and moving the object around on the scan plate. All the files are on Thingiverse, which we’ve linked below. Interestingly, the creator stresses that the AAScan is intended to be a purposefully minimalist machine, able to scan but not filled with extra features beyond this primary capacity.
All the instructions for how to build, print and assemble the AAScan are on the Thingiverse page, requiring an Arduino, some electronics, and either a 3D printer to print the plastic parts or someone else to print them for you — such as from a 3D printing service.
You can view the DIY scanner on Thingiverse here.
FabScan Pi
- DIY 3D scanner technology: laser triangulation
- Price: $100-200 depending on which version
The original FabScan was a DIY 3D scanner built by Francis Engelmann as part of his Bachelor’s thesis back in 2010. Since then, there have been numerous improvements made in new iterations up to the newest model, the FabScan Pi. This new model uses a Raspberry Pi camera along with the new design to offer higher quality 3D scans.
Based on laser triangulation technology, the FabScan Pi is one of the best DIY 3D scanner options for those who are into doing it themselves.
Depending on if you go for one of the older models or the latest, the price can vary between $100 and around $200 to completely create the 3D scanner. Overall, it’s a really cool kit and thesis which you can make at home.
If you want to create your own FabScan, you can follow the assembly guide here.
DIY Standalone 3D Scanner by Jun Takeda
- DIY 3D scanner technology: Photogrammetry
- Price: $200.00
The DIY Standalone 3D Scanner is an excellent option for those that want a hands-on project that results in a reasonably accurate and easy-to-use stationary 3D scanner.
By combining a Mbed board with a camera and OpenCV libraries, the scanning process is largely automated with just a single button push. The scanner captures multiple images of an object to create a 3D model that’s then output as an STL file written to an SD Card.
To complete the project, you’ll need a GR-LYCHEE as a centerpiece sided by smaller electronic parts, plastic sheets to create the housing, and various nuts and wiring to piece it all together.
As the name implies, it’s very much a DIY project and, as such, would best suit those happy to troubleshoot any potential hurdles with little hand-holding. Though there are instructions, you’re responsible for designing the housing, wiring the board, and calibrating the camera.
Arduino-Controlled Photogrammetry 3D Scanner by Brian Brocken
- DIY 3D scanner technology: Photogrammetry
- Price: ~$100
The Arduino-Controlled Photogrammetry 3D Scanner is a 3D printable 3D scanner DIY project that leverages the camera on any run-of-the-mill Smartphone and a cheap Arduino UNO SBC to keep costs low.
The core idea is to assemble a turntable consisting of 3D printed mechanical parts, including a print-in-place bearing. A Bluetooth-connected Smartphone does the actual scanning via the normal photogrammetry process. As for electronic components, you’ll need a servo motor, LCD screen, Arduino Uno, PCB, stepper motor, Bluetooth remote, regulator, and a small joystick module.
Once assembled, the Arduino-Controlled Photogrammetry 3D Scanner can capture anywhere from 2 to 200 photos in a single 360° rotation for reasonably detailed scans. The images are then sent to photogrammetry software such as AutoDesk Recap Photo to assemble a 3D model.
Aside from the cost of filament, expect to pay no more than $100 for all the parts and the STL files to 3D print the turntable.
Semi-assembled DIY scanners
Revopoint POP / POP 2
- Price: $500-700 — Available at Revopoint store here
- Accuracy: 0.3 mm
- Max Scan Volume: 200 x 300 x 300 mm
- Scan Speed: Up to 8 FPS
- DIY 3D scanner technology: Structured light
Though not technically a DIY scanner, we thought we’d slide in the Revopoint POP as a cheat option for those that want to save time and want largely better quality scans than you’d get with a homemade alternative.
It comes semi-assembled – you just need to attach the tripod, connect the USB and the turntable, add the sticker markers for better scan tracking, and optionally build and attach the larger turntable – so you can get started in just 5 minutes!
A basic mug scan we did on our Revopoint POP 2.The catch? At around $500, the Revopoint POP is considerably pricier than a DIY scanner. Still, it may be worth paying the premium for the convenience and reliability.
The Revopoint POP offers 0.3 mm accuracy (the POP 2 offers within 0.1 mm!) and automatic alignment technology, making for more detailed and smooth full-color 3D models than DIY scanners. It can capture 360° scans of objects up to 200 x 300 x 300 mm, besting most DIY options.
The main benefit of all this is high accuracy scans that are just about ready for 3D printing with very little post-processing needed to iron out imperfections and poor surface details.
A statue scan we did with our Revopoint POP 2.Ease of use also extends to the intuitive software, which works with Smartphones for on-the-go scanning and features exports to STL and OBJ formats.
Alongside, it bundles in best-of both-worlds handheld and stationary modes. Five different scanning profiles allow you to tune the POP to each scan with face, body, feature, mark, and dark mode.
Read more: we tested and reviewed the Revopoint POP 2
Can You Make a 3D Scanner?
- Choose a DIY 3D scanner design.
- Source the non-3D printable parts such as the camera, stepper motor, single board computer (such as an Arduino), wiring, and other electronic parts.
- 3D print the housing, brackets, turntable, mounts, and other parts required for the 3D scanner project.
- Wire and assemble all the parts.
- Configure and set up the single board computer.
- Test and scan.
FAQs
Which is the Best DIY 3D Scanner?
This depends on how much DIY you want to take on yourself, and how much you are ready to spend.
One of the most cost-effective options is scanners based on the Ciclop open-source 3D scanner design.
You can purchase a low-cost Ciclop scanner like the BQ Ciclop or CowTech Ciclop 3D scanner, then 3D print the parts from home and modify and tune the scanner to your liking.
Alternatively, the Revopoint POP is an excellent semi-assembled 3D scanner with great specifications and software at an affordable price for those that want to save time.
What is a DIY 3D Scanner?
A DIY 3D scanner is a cost-effective, home-made device constructed from manufactured or 3D printed parts designed to capture the characteristics of a specific object – such as size, surface details, and shape – by scanning it from multiple angles to create an equivalent point cloud that can be processed into a 3D model via software.
Other articles you may be interested in:
- The best 3D scanners
- The best low-cost 3D scanners
- Top 3D scanner apps for iOS and Android
- The best photogrammetry software
- Structured light 3D scanning vs laser scanning
- 3D body scanners: a guide
- Industrial 3D scanners
My own 3D scanner / Sudo Null IT News
My goal was to make a fully functional scanner that can make computer 3d models.
At the same time, I did not want to spend more than $ 20 on all this. True, I did not consider the cost of materials, but still it turned out no more than $ 100.
Preparation
There are several ways to find points in 3D space.
The simplest of these is to use 3 numbers to describe the position of one point in relation to another.
This method is used by most computer models.
Another way is to use 3 planes or a plane and a line.
As you can see, the easiest way is to use the third method, and then bring its result to the first.
However, the question arises, how to find the plane and its points?
As it turned out, the first is implemented by hardware, and the second by software.
Hardware implementation
I like to explain the main idea first and then move on to the implementation. This will help you find your own solutions.
So we need to find a plane and somehow write down where this plane is so that the computer can make a model.
Although many people use to find the edges of the shadow for this, I decided to go the other way.
I found a very bright green laser (you can use a laser from a regular laser pointer if you don't have one).
I directed the laser through a cylindrical lens, which turns it into a line. I used this line to find the plane. This works great, but be aware that the size of your scanner will be severely limited by the size of the lens: my lens is about a third of an inch in diameter, and I'm limited to a scan space of about 2' by 6" by 6". Smaller lenses will work better, but I don't need it.
Case
First we need to make a box that will contain the scanner. The bottom and back of the drawer are made of melamine, the sides are made of plywood. After everything was done, I decided that melamine was unnecessary: take some plywood and paint it white. This will save you a few dollars.
Laser installation
The next step is to install and mount the laser.
I used an old piece of wood. The rollers are set in such a way that the laser rolls along the rails at the top of the window. There, the laser and lens are mounted so that the plane of light falls perpendicular to the top and bottom of the window.
Mounting the camera
The camera must be mounted on the side, above the object. This ensures that the laser line will deflect properly.
Now you can put some object. I used gnome. Look at the camera and make sure the laser is noticeably deflected over the object. Look at the photo below to get an idea of what I mean.
Software
The idea behind the software is also quite simple. There are a series of dots, each corresponding to a pixel on the camera. The trick is to learn how to translate points between two spaces. As it turns out, this boils down to a fairly simple equation.
Scanning in progress
It's time to test our scanner!
Now only one part of the object is being scanned - the one that is directed to the camera.
However, you can modify the scanner.
Further development
Some more ideas that can be implemented.
- Automation . Matlab may not be the best choice in this case. You can write your own software and add more motors.
- Add camera rotation . Along with automation, this will allow you to make a complete 3d model.
- Ideally, the software should remove the noise.
Translator's note: If you need the source codes, please write to the author of the original text.
3D face scan with 3D scanner
Solve individual problems in medicine and cosmetics
Test scan
- Applications
- 3D Model Examples
- Scanning tips
- Hardware and software
- Where to buy?
In the field of modern technologies, the terms "personification", "individualization" are increasingly used.
The solution of these problems becomes possible with the use of 3D scanners.
3D scanning is increasingly used by specialists in the field of medicine, health and beauty - cosmetologists, dentists, prosthetists, surgeons. In their work, they trust 3D scanners to solve problems such as the creation of individual prostheses, implants, surgical templates.
Also, 3D scanning of the face and body is used in the entertainment industry, in design and advertising to create souvenirs, individual packaging.
3D scanner transmits
the smallest details
The peel 3d line of 3D scanners was created to digitize various structures, including the human face, skin and its defects with an accuracy of 0.1 mm.
Applications
Plastic surgery
- 3D facial imaging for maxillofacial surgery
- simulation of the results of plastic surgery
Facial prosthetics
- creation of individual prostheses, surgical templates, implants
- visualization and modeling of the result of transplantation and prosthetics
Advertising, entertainment
- production of promotional items, including 3D printing
- 3D visualization of art objects
- creation of digital models for computer games and other programs
Souvenirs, designer accessories
- creation of figurines of real people for printing
- production of personalized accessories and jewelry
- digitization of mini-copies of real objects, sculptures, busts
Project examples
Lincoln's face
human ear
Human face in high resolution
More cases in different industries
Test the scanner for free and see how it performs for your needs Test scan
Human Face Scanning Guidelines
Do you want to test the 3D scanner?
Order a scan in our office or make an appointment
for an online demo.
3D Face Scan Solutions
3D peel 3d scanner Face scanning is fast, easy and safe!
The compact peel 2, peel 2 CAD, Go!SCAN 20 scanners are professional solutions for digitizing objects up to 3 m with an accuracy of 0.1 mm and the ability to capture texture and color.
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Software Unleash your creativity with this powerful 3D modeling software!
The peel 3d software product allows you to solve all the main tasks when processing scanned data.
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Why order
solutions from iQB Technologies
Exclusive distributor of peel 3d in Russia
Professional
3D scanners at the price of budget counterparts
Free trial
3D scan of your part
Demo hall in Moscow: more than 10 scanners and 3D printers
Services for the implementation, maintenance and repair of 3D equipment
Training in the use of 3D scanners in prof.
activities
3D scanning services based on our own fleet of equipment
About
3D scanner applications
3D scanning technology continues to gain popularity, and today the 3D Scanner (3D Scanner) It is used not only in production, but also for scanning a person's face. 3D scan first (3D Scanning) faces used for biometric access control systems, but now the technology is in demand primarily in dentistry, plastic and maxillofacial surgery, and cosmetology.
Scanning a human face with the peel 3d 3D face scanner can be done almost under any angle, unlike complex measurement methods such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). This greatly simplifies the process of creating a 3D model.
