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3D Scanners: What Are the Best Available Low-Cost Solutions?
Published on July 16, 2022 by Carlota V.
3D scanning is often used in the additive manufacturing (AM) sector to design a 3D model more easily than via modeling software. It captures data that is then transformed into a 3D model which can then be 3D printed. 3D scanners are based on two main technologies – laser triangulation and structured light – which will allow to obtain more or less precise details depending on the chosen device. Several affordable solutions, compared to professional scanners which are much more expensive, are available today to allow many users to bring their projects to life: whether you are a maker, a teacher or an industry leader, on of these low cost 3D scanners is bound to suit your needs! Easy to handle and transport, we have chosen some 3D scanners under $8,000 (€7,000), sorted by increasing price.
3D Scanner 2.0 from XYZprinting
Taiwanese manufacturer, XYZprinting, currently offers 5 scanners, though today we will focus on one of their more low-cost 3D scanners, the portable and high-resolution 3D Scanner 2. 0. With a wider scanning range than its younger sibling the 1.0 A, the scanner can scan objects that are 5 x 5 x 5 ~ 100 x 100 x 200 cm using an Intel® RealSense™ Camera. The scan resolution is also superior to the 1.0A, between 0.2 and 1.5 mm with an operating range ranging from 25 to 60 cm. The manufacturer also provides XYZScan Handy, a scanning and post-editing software to edit your models after scanning. The product is lightweight measuring 41 x 157 x 61 mm with a weight of 238 g. It is available from €199.
Structure Sensor from Occipital
The Structure Sensor solution adds precise 3D vision to your mobile device, enabling 3D scanning among other features. The only equipment you will need for this 3D scanner to work is an iPad, then once you have downloaded the app Skanect Pro, it will work instantly.
The new version of this device is smaller than the last, 109mm x 18mm x 24mm, and weighs about 65 g. It is recommended to use it on a 0.3 m to 5m scanning range. Some other features on this device include indoor mapping and virtual reality gaming! The Structure Sensor retails for $527, making it a low-cost scanner when compared to many other options.
POP 3D Scanner from Revopoint
The Revopoint POP is unique among 3D scanners as it has the distinction of being part of the highest crowdfunded campaign for a 3D scanner in Kickstarter, raising more than $2.28 million USD. It was developed by Revopoint, a company founded in 2014 by a group of young doctors and researchers from MIT, Kent University and other higher education institutions when they decided to focus on developing easy-to-use and cost-effective 3D scanners. It is safe to say that they certainly succeeded with their POP 3D scanner.
A binocular structured light 3D scanner that uses infrared as its light source, the Revopoint POP is a full-color scanner with an accuracy of up to 0.3mm, texture scan and an 8Fps scanning speed. It has a number of interesting features, including the fact that it is easy to use outdoors because of it’s portable and can be powered by a power bank. With a cost of the scanner of only $549 in USA and about $599 in Europe, it is one of the most affordable options on our list, all while still being an effective, precise, high-resolution scanner. Not to mention, it can be used by a variety of users, as it supports four OS platforms – Windows, Android, Mac and iOS.
Creality CR-Scan 01
Known for its affordable desktop 3D printers, manufacturer Creality has also developed a low-cost 3D scanner, the CR-Scan 01. Weighing only 1.91 kilos, this portable scanner is easy to handle and offers a scanning area of 536 x 378 mm. You will be able to scan your objects with an accuracy of up to 0.1 mm and export them in stl or obj format. Several scanning modes are offered, either manual or on a turntable. It is currently available from 589 €.
SOL 3D Scanner from Scan Dimension
This scanner was developed by Scan Dimension, based in Denmark, and is essentially a hybrid solution. It uses a combination of laser triangulation and white light technology to 3D scan real-life objects. The SOL 3D scanner can provide a resolution of up to 0.1 mm. The 3D scanning process is automated and you can choose between a near and far scanning mode.
The SOL 3D scanner also includes software to simplify your entire workflow. In a few steps you will be sending your 3D model to your 3D printer. This is a solution meant for makers, hobbyists, educators and entrepreneurs who may not have the most experience with 3D scanners but still want to achieve great results with a relatively low cost. The SOL 3D scanner retails for $699.
V2 from Matter & Form
The Matter and Form 3D Scanner V2 is a desktop 3D scanning solution manufactured by Matter & Form, a company founded in 2013. This company has made it its mission to develop and distribute affordable, high-resolution 3D scanners. With the V2, it has achieved that mission: the 3D scanner is available from $750 and is capable of producing high-quality scans with an accuracy of up to 0.1 mm. It weighs 1.71 kilograms (3. 77 lbs) and has a height of 35.5 cm (13.5 in) and a width of 21 cm (8.25 in). The slim and foldable design allows the device to fit on small desks. The V2 allows scanning of objects with a maximum height of 25 cm (9.8 in) and a diameter of 18 cm (7.0 in). Windows and Mac scan files are supported, with multiple export options for 3D printing as well.
RangeVision NEO
The NEO 3D scanner from the manufacturer RangeVision is an entry-level device with two 2-megapixel cameras, which works using Structured Light Scanning (SLS) technology. With an automatic scan mode, the scanner is suitable for all those who have little experience in digitizing objects. The SLS-3D scanner can capture objects from 30mm to 1200mm with a precision of 0.05mm, with 3D scans created using RangeVision software. Also included is a turntable and tripod, which make scanning easier for the user. According to the manufacturer, the NEO’s scans are suitable for reverse engineering, 3D modeling, historic preservation and, of course, 3D printing. The RangeVision NEO is available from around €2,190, making it one of the few low cost desktop 3D scanners available.
Calibry, the low-cost 3D scanner, from Thor3D
Thor3D is a Russian manufacturer that is behind the Calibry portable 3D scanner. Based on structured light technology, it integrates a touch screen so that the user can follow the points it captures in real time. It offers accuracy down to 0.1 mm and is capable of scanning objects from 30 cm to 10 meters long. Black and glossy surfaces can be easily scanned and exported in stl, obj, ply or WRML formats. Finally, the Calibry is fast and convenient, capable of scanning up to 3 million points per second and weighing only 900 grams. It is available from 4,990 euros.
EINSCAN H from Shining 3D
The EinScan H is one of the most advanced versions of portable 3D scanners developed by the Chinese manufacturer Shining3D. Based on the hybrid structure light technology of LED and invisible infrared light, the EinScan H is able to perform human face scans more comfortably and without emitting strong light. It also incorporates a full-color camera and a large field of view for a truly impressive final quality of the models, ready for processing in just a few minutes. Its high resolution of 0.25 mm and data accuracy down to 0.05 mm make this a good choice in the market considering the price/performance ratio. In addition, it stands out for its light weight of almost 700g and intuitive user interface. The base price of this model is $5000 and you can get more information on the manufacturer’s website.
Eva Lite from Artec 3D
Artec 3D, based in Luxembourg, offers the Eva Lite as its cheapest option for 3D scanning. This professional scanner is specialized in the digitization of complex geometries, such as the human body, and is therefore increasingly used in the medical field. It works on the basis of structured light technology and, although it does not have the ability to capture colours and textures like most scanners of the brand, it has an accuracy of 0.5 mm.
This 3D scanner works with the software package Artec Studio. Artec Studio is a powerful tool for an optimized 3D scanning process. This software is able to perform, assemble and repair 3D scans. It is currently available at a price of $9,800. You can find more information HERE.
Any other low cost 3D printing scanners you think should be on this list? Let us know in a comment below or on our Facebook and Twitter pages! And remember to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter, to get all the latest news in 3D printing send straight to your inbox! For more 3Dnatives articles about 3D scanners, click HERE.
Top 3D scanner apps and software in 2022
3D Learning Hub
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Contents:
- Introduction
- How does 3D scanning work?
- Photogrammetry software
- 3D scanning software for 3D scanners
- 3D scanning apps
- Let's 3D scan today!
Introduction
How does 3D scanning work?
We already wrote an article about how 3D scanning works, so dig into it if you would like to know all the details! In a nutshell, 3D scanning allows you to produce a 3D model of a physical object. 3D scanning is a technology that’s now available for everyone. Doctors and other professionals use 3D scanners at work, but they are also widely used by commercial companies and amateurs.
3D scanning can be as easy as using your own smartphone or setting up a bunch of cameras. There are 3 methods to use 3D scanning technology: laser 3D scanning, photogrammetry, and structured light scanning. We prepared a guide to help you choose the best 3D scanner for your project. Since there are different devices used for 3D scanning, we organized our list of the top 20 3D scanning software by type: photogrammetry software, 3D scanning software used for 3D scanners and 3D scanning apps for your phone.
Photogrammetry software
Photogrammetry software is a technology based on photos to produce your 3D models. It uses photographs to calculate measurements and turn them into 3D data. To 3D scan with a phone, drone or a camera, you need photogrammetry software. We already dedicated a blog post to the best photogrammetry software, but now we will enrich this list.
3DF Zephyr
3DF Zephyr is one of the leaders on the market thanks to its UI. It is very intuitive and user-friendly. Inexperienced users will be guided through the 3D scanning process, however, 3DF Zephyr is not only for amateurs. Professionals from different fields will use a lot of helpful tools, such as the ability to transform the model into CAD software. There are also plenty of options to tweak the 3D model and adjust it.
Agisoft Metashape
This professional 3D scanning software is popular for GIS applications (Geographic Information System), but also for visual effects production, historical documentation and game development. The software is capable of working with both close-range and aerial photogrammetry.
An interesting feature of Agisoft Metashape is that the user can make 4D models as the software allows to save whole scenes as editable 3D objects
Autodesk ReCap
Autodesk ReCap stands for Reality Capture. It uses photos, but can also apply laser scans to produce 3D models. It can be used for aerial scans and close-range. The 3D objects can be used with CAD and BIM software. With this 3D scanning software, you will be able to achieve high-quality models, which can be edited thanks to specialized tools.
Bentley ContextCapture
This is a very powerful professional photogrammetry software, capable of producing whole infrastructure landscapes. It will give you a lot of advanced tools to organize and edit the 3D models. This software is popular for construction projects, it can create highly detailed street views This software can be with aerial photogrammetry and laser scanning in order to achieve the best 3D models. With Bentley ContextCapture you can even produce 3D animations and fly-throughs.
Colmap
Colmap allows for the production of 3D mesh from one camera or from a set up of cameras. It is free and easy to use. There are more advanced options available, especially to improve quality. However, you can’t edit the 3D model in this software. It is great for quick and easy 3D scanning.
DroneDeploy
As the name suggests, this 3D scanning software was designed for drones. It consists of two apps. One controls the path of the drone and will guide it from take-off to landing. A second program gathers the photos and creates a 3D model. It provides you with tools to measure areas, volumes, and distances. Additionally, you can add more personalized features.
IMAGINE Photogrammetry
IMAGINE is a professional photogrammetry software. It is important for you to consider if you’re planning to work with mapping 3D scans. It is very well known in the industry and used by the department of transportation, commercial mapping companies, and national and regional mapping authorities. It provides users with plenty of professional tools such as different point cloud views, to help transform the photos and manage large data.
Meshroom
Meshroom stands out for an easy learning curve. The 3D scanning process is very intuitive, and based on nodes and creates a 3D model for you. You also have the option to edit the nodes later and adjust the 3D scan according to your needs.
MicMac
This professional photogrammetry software was created by the French National Geographic Insitute and the French National School of Geographic Sciences. It provides you with highly professional tools, especially for academic and industrial applications. It can be used for small and large scale scans.
OpenMVG
Yet another 3D scanning software for professionals. It is trusted by computer-vision scientists and the Multiple View Geometry (MVG) industry. OpenMVG operates with Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry technology.
Photomodeler
Photomodeller allows you to create 3D objects thanks to 3 different methods. You can manually fit common characteristics, automatically produce a 3D model from coded targets or match point clouds from overlapping images. It is an easy to use and affordable 3D scanning software.
Pix4D
This 3D scanning software covers all the tools from flying a drone to generating a 3D model. It will assure your drone path is correct and then allows you to create orthomosaics, index maps, elevation models or point clouds to produce an accurate 3D model. You also have access to different analytic tools so the model can be edited.
3D scanning software for 3D scanners
3D scanning apps
This cutting-edge technology of 3D scanning has gone so far that you can even use your phone to both make a 3D scan and then a 3D model. There are dedicated apps that will allow you to turn a real object into a 3D model in just a few clicks. Learn how to 3D scan with a smartphone
Qlone
This is all-in-one mobile 3D scanning software. Qlone will allow you to 3D scan and produce a 3D model with just your smartphone. It’s easy and fast to use. The 3D model can be exported into several 3D formats and sent for 3D printing.
Trnio
Trnio can be considered as photogrammetry software but can be used on a smartphone. It turns pictures into 3D objects, but you can also actually 3D scan the object. It offers two quality options: high and low texturing resolution.
Sony 3D Creator
If you need to get high resolution models using a 3D scan app on your smartphone, this Sony 3D Creator app could totally fit your needs. This free app is perfectly adapted to beginners, allowing you to render your 3D model in 4K for a better resolution.
Heges
Heges is a scanning app for iPhone, targeting professional users. This program has many interesting features: it performs 360° rotation, it includes “Infinity scanning” for large spaces. You can also make the most of its dark mode allowing you to scan in dark environment!
Scann3D
Yet another photogrammetry software. It has a very simple UI and is user-friendly. Take 20-40 pictures in order to generate a 3D model. It can work with small objects as well as bigger objects (such as a tree). You can export your model as an STL file, one of the most popular formats for 3D printing.
3D Creator
This mobile app was developed by Sony and will provide you with high-quality 3D scans, it’s especially popular for portraits. The models can be used within different apps such as messages, but also to 3D print models in full color.
Scandy Pro 3D Scanner
This intuitive 3D scanning software makes it so easy to generate high-quality models. It prides itself in light files without losing quality, built-in support for STL, OBJ, GLB, USDZ and PLY formats, and moreover, fully-featured editing tools.
Let's 3D scan today!
As you can see the list of Top 3D scanning software is long and for sure one of them will fit your needs. From professional landscape mapping to medical 3D scanning, this technology amazes us. But it can also be used at your home, all you need is a phone.
3D printing can be just as easy. All you need to do is to upload your 3D objects to our online Additive Manufacturing service. 3D printing has never been more simple!
Don’t forget to subscribe to our Newsletter and follow us on Facebook for the latest 3D printing news!
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High precision portable 3D scanners HandySCAN
Reviews
Get to know the capabilities of this equipment and the real experience of using a 3D scanner in the production of helicopters.
About
Creaform is a Canadian company that is the world's leading provider of 3D scanning solutions. The equipment manufacturer offers a wide range of 3D scanners, including devices for metrological measurements. The company has patents for its advanced developments and continues research in the field of 3D scanning.
The organization is part of the largest AMETEK holding. To date, Creaform supplies its equipment to Europe and Asia, North and South America.
HandySCAN 3D is the third generation of metrology-grade handheld portable 3D scanners that allow you to measure various physical objects in minutes and get high-resolution results.
Two models are available for users HandySCAN BLACK and HandySCAN BLACK | Elite. These robust 3D scanners allow you to quickly digitize objects ranging in size from 0.1 to 4 meters. The equipment is perfect for specialists in various fields: design, production, metrology for quality control and product development.
With HandySCAN you can scan in almost any environment and digitize objects of various shapes and sizes. 3D scanners are simple and easy to use, with an elegant ergonomic design.
The youngest model in the Creaform HandySCAN | BLACK Series. High accuracy and speed of work allows you to quickly digitize objects up to 4 m in size. HandySCAN | BLACK does not require fine tuning - the multi-parameter positioning system allows you to achieve excellent results.
The advantage of Creaform handheld scanners is complete freedom of action. The absence of wires and the need to use a tripod allows you to scan in any, even in hard-to-reach places.
Each HandySCAN | BLACK complies with international standards for metrological equipment and comes with a certificate confirming the results of acceptance tests.
Specifications:
- Scan technology: Optical laser illumination
- Scanning accuracy: 0.035 mm
- Camera resolution: 3.1 MP
- Number of cameras: 2 pcs.
- Scanning zone: 310x350 mm
- Scanning / Measurement speed: 800 000 measurements / sec
- Object to facility: 300 mm
- Scan of textures / color: no
- tutor: no Not supported
- Light source: 7 blue laser crosses
Top of the range HandySCAN | BLACK Elite is suitable for solving complex tasks, such as organizing quality control in production or reverse engineering. The scanner allows you to get the most accurate result even in aggressive production conditions. Insufficient lighting, vibrations and dust do not affect the quality of the scan.
HandySCAN | BLACK Elite does not require fine tuning, so scanning is accessible even for beginners. Ergonomic design, no wires and compact dimensions allow you to work in any conditions.
The 3D scanner is certified according to metrology standards.
Specifications:
- Scan technology: Optical laser illumination
- Scan accuracy: 0.025 mm
- Camera resolution: 3.1 mp.
- Number of chambers: 2 pcs.
- Accuracy: 0.02 + 0.04 mm/m
- Scan area: 310x350 mm
- Scanning / Measurement speed: 1 300 000 Izm. / S
- The operating distance to the facility: 300 mm
- Texture / color scan: no
- Rogue table: not maintained
- source : 11 blue laser crosses + 1 extra line
Advantages of HandySCAN | BLACK Series
- 4x higher resolution: fast digitization of both small and large objects, even with the most complex surfaces, down to the smallest details.
- High speed - up to 1,300,000 measurements per second.
- Instant Mesh: Generates a digital file based on scanned data.
- High quality optics.
- Accuracy up to 0.025 mm.
- Volumetric accuracy: 0.020 mm + 0.040 mm.
- The base package includes the improved VXelements 7.0 software, which greatly simplifies the work with the device due to many functions.
- Scanners are included in the State Register of Measuring Instruments.
How to get started with HandySCAN 3D
Industrial applications of HandySCAN 3D
Bell Helicopter, an American company specializing in the production of helicopters and rotorcraft, develops vertical takeoff and landing vehicles. The company purchased a HandySCAN 3D scanner to check the setup of a gear machine. Thus, Bell Helicopter specialists successfully use the HandySCAN BLACK 3D scanner for quality control, in particular, for automatic verification of the parameters of manufactured products. Using a portable device, the green casting is measured to identify possible deformation. According to the company's employees, this is the most effective way to maintain a high quality standard for aircraft parts.
Thank you all, the material was prepared by a team of LIDER-3D specialists, we will be glad to hear your questions in the comments.
If you are interested in HandySCAN 3D scanners, you can get detailed expert advice and purchase this equipment on the LIDER-3D website.
Follow us on social networks: VKontakte, Telegram, Instagram, YouTube, Ya.Zen, Twitter, Facebook to be the first to receive the most interesting materials!
We also advise you to look at our selection of 3D scanners for education, business and production at the end of 2021.
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Review: CNews: IT trends 2022 - 3D foot scanner of an American company received a Russian voice assistant
New functionality - additional benefits with the help of modern developments. Aetrex is one of them, which is actively developing in the field of foot scanning and premium orthotics technologies, with which customers can choose the right shoes and orthopedic insoles to maintain foot health. Their flagship scanner Albert 2 Pro takes the most accurate and complete measurements of the customer's foot, including data on pressure points on the surface, and from this creates a 3D model of the foot.
The equipment uses a variety of sensors, computer vision, artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to collect maximum foot data. For example, computer vision technology allows you to create three-dimensional images of the legs. Machine learning improves the accuracy of matched products. As a result, in less than a minute, the user learns the size, length, width, height of the foot, pressure and type of arch. With the help of this data, artificial intelligence finds suitable shoes or orthopedic insoles among the store's product list, and the seller can recommend them to customers.
Aetrex Technology has created all hardware and software for the scanner itself. Since contactless control of equipment became relevant in the era of the pandemic, the developers decided to equip Albert with a voice assistant. And offer customers a new generation scanner - Albert 2 Pro.
To develop a contactless control system, Aetrex contacted Harman, the creator of the Harman eNova platform, designed to create and personalize voice assistants. The AI-powered, scalable platform runs locally on devices and over closed networks, as well as over the internet in cloud data centers.
With the help of modern technology, customers can quickly select orthopedic insoles or shoesThe platform is a set of ready-to-use components, a system for their interaction and administration. It allows you to create products in the field of voice interaction interfaces that meet high requirements for performance, accuracy and security of personal data.
For example, in 2019, Harman created the AI voice assistant Zoe, which works on MSC Cruises cruise ships. He speaks seven languages and can answer hundreds of questions about services and entertainment on board. Before the launch, experts tested the dialogues, speech recognition systems and the ability to transform speech into text and vice versa. Zoe is currently installed on three MSC Cruises ships.
From idea to implementation
Harman's main challenge was to implement English voice control into existing Aetrex equipment. In order for the consultant to have access to a set of commands, including “Begin scan male / female”, “Go to Shoe Recommendations”, that is, a request for access to the cloud-based system of intelligent responses. This was a new functionality for the scanner: in the first generation, the consultant in the store used a touch screen for control.
Work on the project lasted about six months. Harman representatives collected audio data to train the voice recognition system. The system was taught to distinguish between keywords, control commands, and questions to artificial intelligence related to the selection of shoes. We developed and agreed on the architecture of the voice assistant with Aetrex engineers, created two AI models. The first offline listened to voice commands to control the scanner. The second online recognized questions to artificial intelligence and the training center.
Harman eNova platform modules were responsible for implementation. For example, the "Wake-word engine" module allows you to activate the system using the callsign "Hey Albert". The command recognition module for controlling the scanner works on hardware and in conjunction with the software of the scanner itself. The AI database command recognition module sends the user's request to the cloud and selects the appropriate response.
Final test
Harman did not have physical access to the customer's equipment, all work on the project took place remotely. The system was tested on computers similar in configuration to those used by Aetrex for Albert. Harman test engineers used the same wireless microphones used by Aetrex consultants.
This is what Albert 3D scanners look like.At the final stage of testing, the customer installed the new software on Albert 3D scanners in several stores and asked consultants to test the system. In case of problems, the collected audio data and debug files were sent to Harman for analysis and correction.
Lost in translation
The stage of collecting audio data for training the Wake-Word Engine took the most time. Harman representatives turned to an American company that prepared sound files - recorded the voices of men and women of different ages and with different accents: from Hispanics to natives of China. They spoke the callsign and scanner control commands in English. So Harman was able to take into account all the peculiarities of pronunciation that customers of the Aetrex chain of stores may have.
Another interesting nuance was the unification of the call command. For example, the user might say "Go to Learning Center" or "Go to Learning Center, please!". The developers taught the system to correctly consider both options.
Customer and contractor were having difficulty selecting the right wireless microphone. It was necessary to find a high-quality device capable of operating from a battery of 8–12 hours and drowning out specific sounds in stores: air conditioning noise, advertising, car horns from the street, fragments of customer conversations. As a result, we chose a radio headset model from a Chinese manufacturer. It passed all tests and was approved by the customer.
New and future
The successful partnership between Aetrex and Harman has resulted in a new generation of foot scanner, the Albert 2 Pro 3D foot scanner. It allows sales representatives in Aetrex retail stores to select products for customers without contact and advise people on the assortment. Management is carried out using a voice assistant.
That's how it works. The customer comes to the store to pick up the right shoes or insoles and is offered to use the scanner. The salesperson uses a microphone to start the equipment, asks Albert - the helper character built into the scanner software - a question about the data obtained from the scan or the status of the customer's stop, and receives an instant response with all the necessary data, images or videos.
The 3D foot scanner allows sales representatives to pick up items for customers without contact.Development can also be used as a training center. A realistic 3D character helps users navigate the software.
Albert's foot scanner voice control solutions are based on the customizable Harman eNova platform and can be used in any area that requires a voice assistant or just voice control. This platform has a set of ready-to-use components, as well as systems for their interaction and administration. The set consists of high-precision automatic speech recognition (ASR), natural language processing and understanding (NLU), speech synthesis (TTS) systems.
The Harman eNova platform can be used as a ready-made product with minimal implementation time, or as a tool for creating new personalized voice interfaces.