3D scanning has the ability to digitize surface structure detail using a mixture of light, lasers and cameras that trace the geometry of an object to create its digital representation. In example of laser scanners — it sends out a laser beam, reflects off the surface of the object and returns to the sensor. The process, called time-of-flight or triangulation, measures the distance between the sensor and each surface point to generate extremely accurate geometry of the object. Faro Technologies develops Laser Scanners, like the Faro Focus S, accurate within 1mm (a perfect tool for construction and aerospace industries).
Structured light scanners operate by projecting a sequence of light patterns, usually stripes or grids, onto an object. Special patterns are projected onto the object, and modifications of these patterns on the object surface are captured by cameras, which are then processed by the software to produce a 3D model. Faster than laser scanning, this approach can deliver 0.05 mm resolution — like the EinScan Pro 2X scanner priced at $1,599 that’s used from product design to quality control.
These scanners measure an object with a probing device that touches the object’s surface. It uses a probe to contact the surface and note the coordinates of every land it touches, creating an exact map. Zeiss CONTURA is a contact scanner commonly used for high-precision metrology, providing accurate clinical inspections in the industrial field. These are usually slower but more exact scanners, especially when it comes to measuring small or complex details of an object.
An optical scanner like the Revopoint Pop 2 captures surface detail using infrared light via photogrammetry. It scans objects in a daylight, since infrared light does not interfere with ambient light. As these scanners are commonly utilized for texture and surface details, they often appeal to both applications such as cultural heritage preservation or virtual reality. The Revopoint Pop 2 is mostly for professionals and hobbyists with a price of around $539, up to 0.1mm resolution.
Demand for detailed surface scanning is increasing and the global 3D scanning market was found to be valued at $5.89 billion in 2020, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% up to 2025, propelled by advancements across manufacturing and healthcare industries as well as entertainment. These scanning methods make it a high precision and hence useful for events like reverse engineering and quality control jobs.
In the process, a 3D scanner comes up with extremely fine surface features through the measurable distance between an object and sensors using any contact, laser or light technology. For anyone who is more beginner or using smaller projects, a budget 3d scanner like the Revopoint Pop 2 helps you to create surface details with very high accuracy for low cost. An entry point into 3D scanning, this scanner aims to offer tremendous value for users needing detailed scans.