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Isense 3d scanner for ipad
3D Systems iSense for iPad/iPhone 3D Scanner Review
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This compact, versatile 3D scanner works well but has limitations and a high price tag.
Tom's Guide Verdict
This compact, versatile 3D scanner works well but has limitations and a high price tag.
Pros
- +
Simple-to-use app
- +
fits tightly onto iPad/iPhone
- +
scanning process is simple and easy to follow
- +
includes basic editing tools
Cons
- -
Scanning sometimes fails in bright sunlight
- -
small details are often not captured
- -
expensive
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Why should PC users have all the fun of 3D scanning their friends and family, in hopes of printing out 3D models? The iSense is a new 3D scanner from 3D Systems that works with the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad mini with Retina display or the fourth-generation iPad to create 3D models that can be printed on any 3D printer.
Roughly the size of a cigar, the iSense comes with a plastic bracket that attaches it to the back of the iPhone or iPad. (We tested the model that attached to the iPad mini with Retina display.) A cable connects the scanner to the device's Lightning port, and 3D Systems provides a free app that interprets the data and builds the model.
The iSense is a structured light scanner, which means that a small projector on the device emits a pattern of infrared (IR) light. You don't see this IR light, but the camera on the device does, and it uses the reflection of this light pattern to find the shape of the object. This process doesn't work on glass or especially shiny objects, as they reflect the light away.
Scanning Process
To build a 3D model, you point the camera built into the device at the object you want to scan. As you start the scan, the app creates a 3D box showing the volume of the area where the camera will scan. You can pinch and zoom to make the scan area smaller or larger.
The iSense can scan objects between 1 and 5 feet away from the device, which means it won't work for very small objects (less than about 2 or 3 inches high) or big ones (larger than about 6 feet high). It works fine for a cat or a person, for instance, but you can't scan an entire car.
As you move around the subject and scan, the iSense and its app detect this movement, using it to build the new parts of the 3D model. A preview of the model is overlaid on the camera image in gray; any parts that are too close appear in red. You can pause the scan or restart from buttons on the screen.
Occasionally, the app asks you to hold still while it grabs a key frame that it uses to track the object. In our tests, it did this more often with complex and large objects, often asking us to stop every 5 seconds or so.
When you have moved all the way around the object (or as far around as you can), you should have a complete scan.
After you've scanned the object, the app processes the scan and creates the 3D model — a process that usually takes less than a minute.
You can edit the model with a number of simple tools for tasks like cropping off the surface the object was sitting on, or trimming out scanning errors and bits you don't need. You can also solidify the 3D model, filling any holes, and turn the scan into a solid 3D model for printing.
MORE: How to Buy the Right 3D Printer
The scanning process with iSense is pretty smooth on most objects. We were able to scan and create models of objects ranging in size from small figurines to a full human being. It didn't work on moving objects, though: When we tried to scan a cat, the movement of the cat's head as it quizzically wondered what strange thing this human was doing confused the app. A sleeping cat could be scanned, though, as long as we let it lie. Likewise, we could scan people, as long as they stood still.
Printing Scans
Finally, you save the completed 3D model, usually to 3D Systems' own Cubify hosting service. From there, you can print the finished scan in a variety of materials and colors.
(The cost of printing varies according to which material you use.) I've made a sample scan available at the Cubify service.
Alternatively, you can download the objects as .obj files to make them ready for 3D printing at home, or to use them with a different online service. If you do this, however, the color information is saved as a separate file that some services may not be able to read. When we tried to print our object through Shapeways, we had to do some conversion in another program before we could get a scanned 3D model correctly set up. Unfortunately, true-color 3D printers for the home are not yet available, so do-it-yourself prints will be only in one color.
Scanning Results
I did find that the scanner struggled to capture details on some small objects, though. The handle of a coffee cup, for instance, was only partly captured, and the final scan looked more like it had a hook than a handle. The scanner worked best on objects larger than a foot or so, and with smooth, flat surfaces.
It was capable of producing a recognizable scan of a face, but don't expect it to capture every nuance of a smile.
iSense also struggled when the object was under bright sunlight, as the IR light from the sun makes it difficult for the camera to pick out the pattern it uses to detect the object. This could be difficult if you are trying to scan an outdoor sculpture on a sunny day, for instance. As you move around the sculpture to capture all of it, the camera may struggle with the parts where the sun is behind it, as it will also pick up the IR light from the sun.
The iSense is an interesting device, and it is definitely portable. Attached to an iPhone, it can easily slip into a pocket, making it convenient for on-the-road scanning. However, it has many limitations. Its ability to capture detail is weak, and it struggles in some lighting conditions. It also seems rather expensive: At $499, it costs $100 more than the Sense 3D scanner that works with a computer. If you want to create 3D scans of friends, family, pets and the odd statue, then go for it, but I think the cost overwhelms the usefulness of this device for most users.
- 3D Printing Services Reviewed: Do They Really Work?
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Today's best iSense 3D scanner deals
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Richard Baguley has been working as a technology writer and journalist since 1993. As well as contributing to Tom's Guide, he writes for Cnet, T3, Wired and many other publications.
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The iSense 3D Scanner & iOS App
- Spencer Pines, iReviews
- August 02,2022
Advertising Disclosure: Many or all of the companies featured provide compensation to us.
These commissions are how we maintain our free service for consumers. Compensation, along with hours of in-depth research, determines where & how companies appear on our site.
The iPad mountable iSense 3D Scanner is a functional device that can be greatly enhanced by third-party 3D printing applications. With a scan volume that ranges between 8″ and 118 inches, DIYers can scan, crop, edit, enhance and export their scanned objects using the iSense companion app. But if you’re looking for a 0.1mm high-resolution scanner with geometric precision, this is not the device for you. As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for it.”
The iSense 3D Scanner
With a scanning distance of 3.5 meters and a view field of 58-degrees high, there’s plenty of opportunities to replicate objects at hobbyist-level precision. Whether you want to scan small objects like figurines (less than 18″), medium objects like portraits (less than 32″), or large objects like the human body (less than 6′), the iSense comes with three automated settings designed for quick “point-and-shoot” scanning.
The auto-optimized settings are user-friendly and can capture objects ranging from digital cameras to 10-foot-tall spaces.Compatible with iOS 7, iOS 8, and iOS 9 operating systems and supported by apps developed for Occipital’s Structure Sensor, the iSense is capable of a scan resolution of 0.025 inches (point-to-point highest resolution).
With an optimal distance range between 15″ and 60 inches away, the iSense generates images that are a bit soft but they certainly resemble the basic shape of the objects. Armed with an Infrared Class 1 scanner, the iSense is best for indoor use and images are greatly enhanced with an indoor lighting setup.
The iSense App
Whether you have the iPhone 6, iPhone 6+, or any other Apple mobile device, the iSense scanner app will start supplying scan data almost instantly after connection. After downloading Occipital’s Structure Sensor calibration program, DIYers are ready to go. If you’re taking the challenge of scanning objects without distinctive features (tables, chairs, walls), an intuitive indicator will turn orange or red alerting you of the absence of geometric details.
The iSense app is an easy-to-use interface and comes with a bundle of editing features. From cropping to erasing to solidifying, the edit screen makes the model watertight by manually removing unwanted parts. The enhanced screen allows users to trim, color, and touch up the 3D model, adjusting for brightness all while separating the background from images.
Reviewers suggest using three point studio lights to enhance the object’s resolution or you’ll find yourself with sub-par geometry and texture. If you’re bent on using the iSense for daily scans, it’s advisable to purchase the Seez3D app for improved image quality. Even though infrared depth sensor technology is normally capable of capturing geometric shapes, the color texture is compromised with poor indoor lighting.
While the iSense 3D scanner has been discontinued since the original writing of this piece, it may not be as cutting edge or as easy to find as it once was. However, if you can find one for cheap on the aftermarket I would say it might be worth investing in, especially if you’re a game designer, artist, or developer who uses 3D models.
A version of the device can be purchased through this link on Amazon.
PROS
- The iSense App
- Edit & Enhance Features
- Compatible with Seez3D app
- Auto-Optimized Settings
- Compatible with Occipital’s Structure Sensor
CONS
- Not Intended for Outdoor Use
- Fair Image Quality
By Spencer Pines, iReviews
Spencer Pines is a young artist and writer with a wide range of creative abilities. He is passionate about his friends, family, creative works, and retro video games.
View all of Spencer Pines, iReviews's posts.
Turn your iPad into a 3D scanner with this accessory
La La 3d technology is part of what the future of this sector will be and therefore many companies are involved in related projects.
P is known to everyone for the project Tango, a tablet developed by the Google ATAP team that has 3D capabilities and can be applied to the world of video games. Among other things, this device is capable of scanning various types of objects, people, and even spaces such as rooms. B Accessory for iPad what we are dealing with in these lines is not that difficult, although it does have some of those features.
3D scanning along with 3D printing are considered useful tools to be used in the coming years, but there are already signs of their impact and their usefulness today. A few months ago, 3D Systems presented at CES in Las Vegas in 2014 a device that allows you to scan 3D objects that can then be printed on one of the company's printers. A little later, last summer, they took another step forward by introducing iSense 3D Scanner for iPad , an accessory that allows these actions.
This company competes with 3D Primesense , the developer of 3D vision systems that was responsible for manufacturing Microsoft's first Kinect and which was later acquired by Apple in a million-dollar move from Cupertino.
As we said, to find ourselves, we can come up with an accessory that gives the iPad similar (albeit much simpler) functionality to the Project Tango tablet by simply attaching it to the top of one side and connecting Lightning port.
content
- 1 Main functions
- 2 Specifications, requirements and price
Main functions
Apple (Apple is still the world's largest tablet manufacturer) by integrating the necessary features to capture an image in three dimensions. people, household items, sculptures, etc. what we find on the street thanks to two cameras and a sensor unit that combines. In addition, thanks to its design that fits perfectly and measures less than 3 mm thick and 100 grams of , it is not too cumbersome to transport and use in various situations and applications.
As explained on their website, you can visit this link, the device is optimized to scan objects of a wide variety of sizes, ranging from a few centimeters to several meters.
The specifications indicate this information, the ability to capture objects 20 centimeters to 3 meters (cubic), enough to scan an entire machine, for example.
There are several additional features that will improve the user experience. The clearest example of this is the Automatic Object Recognition System , which will greatly aid in successful scanning. In the same way, iSense offers a simple and fast editing program for adapting 3D models to files that can be printed on a 3D printer. And this is one of their big bets, those who have a 3D printer of this brand ( 3D Cube ) will be able to easily move designs from digital to physical and from physical to digital, even when we are away from home with the help of a cloud printing system.
Specifications, requirements and price
As you can see, not all iPads are compatible, in which case the iSense 3D Scanner can be used with iPad Air 2, iPad Air, iPad 4 and iPad Retina Provided they have at least would update iOS 7.
Their change in vision is approximately 45 degrees vertically and 58 degrees horizontally. The device works at ranges from 40 centimeters to 3 and a half meters object, outside of these measures it may be ineffective. It has a built-in rechargeable battery that gives the an autonomy of 3 to 4 hours of use for the and up to 1,000 hours of standby time.
As expected, its price is not available for all budgets. This fits 429 euro in any of its versions and this is another aspect to consider is that the accessory is only compatible with a model from the previous four models we reviewed, it cannot (under optimal conditions) be used with Other tablets have a signature that does not fit. The delivery time should not be very long, so if you can afford it and are interested in this accessory, it will be in your home shortly after the order is completed.
The content of the article complies with our principles of editorial ethics.
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You may be interested
Top 13 3D scanners on the market!・Cults
In the past, 3D scanners were mainly used for industrial and professional applications. For example, scanning architectural objects or creating digital models for films. As technology advances, the price continues to drop. Now, 3D scanning gives the average person the ability to custom-make just about anything they want. With more affordable prices, 3D scanning is becoming more accessible to consumers for personal use.
But first, a basic overview of 3D scanning:
A 3D scanner scans real objects and passes the image data to a 3D modeling program. The object can then be manipulated in the software and - if desired - exported and created on a 3D printer.
1. Select any object (or person!) you want to scan
Why is 3D scanning useful?
Imagine if you could scan your body and see how clothes fit and look online before you order them? 3D scanning technology can do just that.
For example, bodylabs uses 3D scanning to understand how products will work for customers based on their body shape and posture.
2. Scan it and customize it in 3D modeling software
After scanning the object, you can reduce its size or edit it with free 3D design software. You can then choose to 3D print the edited file.
3. Export your model and print it in 3D!
After scanning the model and editing it to your liking, you can export it to .stl format and send it to the printer to bring it to life.
We have listed the 3D scanners below in ascending order of price (from cheapest to most expensive). Their rating does not necessarily reflect our judgment of the quality of the product. We've included some handy YouTube videos that go into more detail about each product.
1. XBox Kinect 3D Scanner - $95 USD
If you want to get by on the cheap, there are ways to use your old Xbox 360 or Xbox One Kinect device to get great results! If you have a Kinect.
2. iSense 3D Scanner for iPhone/iPad - $99
This scanner was developed by 3D Systems as part of the Cubify family. Although they don't sell 3D printers anymore, they keep their 3D scanner in the market. Like a structure sensor, iSense attaches to an iPad or iPhone. Its range of motion is 0.5m more than the Sense.
3. XYZprinting 3D Scanner - $139
XYZprinting 3D Scanner is the cheapest portable 3D scanner on the market. At under $200, it's perfect for anyone looking to get into 3D scanning on a budget.
The size of the scanner is 60 cm x 60 cm x 30 cm, so it is best used for small items. It also uses the new Intel RealSense image capture software, which means it can connect to any Windows device with a 4th generation Intel processor.
4. BQ Ciclop 3D Scanner Kit - $199
This open source hardware project has been released under an open source license so that all mechanical design, electronics and software information is available to the community for further development .
The full package costs about 199 USD. You can even download the design and print it in 3D!
5. Structure Sensor for iPad - $379
Arguably the best scanner on the market, the Structure Sensor was developed through a Kickstarter campaign that attracted over 3,500 people and raised $1.2 million. Structure Sensor turns your regular iPad into a 3D scanner that captures three streams of data at 30 frames per second.
6. Cubify Sense - $399 USD
Cubify Sense is a portable pen scanner that makes it easy to manually scan 3D objects. This makes it possible to use Sense in quite unique areas, with both advantages and disadvantages. Sense is compatible with Windows and Mac OS.
7. Matter And Form MFS1V1 Desktop 3D Scanner - $467 USD
The first ever crowdfunded 3D scanner, Matter and Form, is a Toronto-based company that has raised nearly half a million dollars to develop this product. It uses a 3D laser scanner with a movable camera head and a 360-degree rotating platform.
MFS1V1 generates a detailed point cloud, which again works very well in some scenarios and less well in others.
8. XYZprinting Da Vinci 1.0 Pro 3-in-1 3D Printer - $810
Da Vinci 1.0 Pro is both a 3D scanner and a 3D printer. It uses a laser diode module with a 2 megapixel camera (higher resolution than 1.2 megapixel iPad scanners). Please note that this machine uses proprietary 3D printing consumables.
9. Einscan-S - $999
Einscan-S has two scanning modes: automatic and free. The first one is the easiest: just place an object on the rotating surface of the Einscan turntable and the machine will scan it in just 3 minutes with an accuracy of .1 mm. For large models, free scan mode works by rotating the scanner on a tripod around the object. Einscan-S generates one STL file that can be sent directly to your 3D printer. Einscan-S produces 3D printable models with greater accuracy (using "Light Structure Phase Shift Technology" instead of lasers) than competitors, providing industrial quality 3D scanning technology within a consumer's budget.
10. IIIDScan PrimeSense 3D Scanner - $1441 USD
Greater accuracy comes at a price. This tripod-mounted 3D scanner is unique in that it uses a short-range image sensor capable of scanning 3D objects in more detail and at a faster rate than other scanners on the market.
11. Fuel3D Scanify - US$1,500
This is a very high speed handheld 3D scanner capable of capturing an object in less than 1/10th of a second. In this regard, it differs significantly from the other 3D scanners on this list. In practice, it's more like taking a 3D photograph than manually scanning an object. Fuel3D Scanify uses a dual HD stereo laser camera combined with photometric data from three xenon flashes to create reasonably realistic 3D scans in the blink of an eye (so to speak). High tech.
12. NextEngine 3D Scanner HD - $2,995 USD
The NextEngine 3D Scanner HD combines portability with very high accuracy - much better than the scanners at the top of this list. Of course, the higher the accuracy, the higher the price! It uses an electro-optical system with a laser array that scans in tandem.
The advantage is that the high-precision scanner has no size limits. The scanner comes with its own mesh creation software package, and you can also check out their NURBS and Solid modeling packages as options.
This is the scanner for those who want to get really serious results from their 3D scanning efforts. If you check out the gallery on their site, you can see how much more detailed NextEngine scans are compared to some of the cheaper scanners on this list. Of course, these are the company's own comparisons for marketing purposes, so feel free to take them with a grain of salt!
13. DAVID SLS-2 Laser Scanner - $3,275
The scanner is expensive, but it has a unique use of "light scanning". The company boasts that you can scan everything from insects to elephants. We are told that the SLS-2 can scan 1.2 million peaks in a few seconds. Blimey!
What if none of these scanners work for you? What if you want the best of the best? What if you have several thousand dollars set aside for a 3D scanning budget? If you happen to be in this position, take a look at some of these bad guys.
