What are the top 3D scanning devices for capturing accurate models?

3D scanning technology has revolutionized the way you create digital models, offering unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. Whether you're an architect, a game developer, or a film producer, having a reliable 3D scanner can make all the difference in capturing the real world for your digital projects. This article will guide you through some of the top devices available for creating precise and accurate 3D models, ensuring you have the information you need to select the right scanner for your professional needs.

1 Handheld Options

Handheld 3D scanners are popular for their portability and ease of use, allowing you to capture objects and spaces by simply moving the device around the subject. These scanners typically use structured light or laser technology to create a mesh of the object, which can then be refined and used in various applications. They are ideal for scanning small to medium-sized objects and are widely used in industries such as heritage preservation, where capturing the intricate details of historical artifacts is essential.

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Malcolm Campbell

Drone pilot | Reservist at Canadian Armed Forces
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My experience using a handheld Hovermap LiDAR scanner highlights the significant advantages of this technology for Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 3D building capture. Handheld scanners offer impressive speed in data acquisition, enabling the rapid capture of complex building details. The resulting point clouds are highly accurate, which is essential for creating precise as-built models, tracking construction progress, and ensuring seamless integration within BIM workflows. Moreover, the portability of these scanners makes them incredibly versatile, allowing for thorough data collection even in tight or difficult-to-reach areas.

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2 Stationary Scanners

For larger objects or environments, stationary 3D scanners are the go-to choice. These devices are often mounted on tripods and can capture detailed scans of vehicles, rooms, or even entire buildings. The precision of stationary scanners is impeccable, as they can accurately map out spaces with minimal distortion. They are commonly employed in fields such as construction and automotive design, where accuracy is critical for creating models that are true to scale.

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Nicholas Jensen

CSI Detective at Davis County Sheriff's Office
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My experience with stationary scanners is with FARO scanners, as well as the accompanying software. As long as scans are taken with enough overlapping points, it is not difficult to create a point cloud of an area as large as needed. It is possible to create a point cloud including the interior and exterior of residences or businesses that include millions of points of data that are measurable. Dimensions are captured in a level of detail that would not be possible without the use of a scanner.

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3 Full-Body Scanners

When it comes to capturing human figures or large statues, full-body 3D scanners are the best fit. These scanners are designed to encompass an entire person or object within their scanning range, providing a comprehensive model that includes every angle. Full-body scanners are invaluable in the medical field for creating prosthetics or in the fashion industry for designing clothing that fits perfectly.

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4 Color Capture

Some 3D scanning devices come with the added capability of capturing color information along with the shape of the object. This feature is particularly useful for artists and designers who require color data to create realistic textures for their 3D models. By using a scanner that captures color, you can save time in post-processing and achieve more lifelike results straight from the scan.

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5 Software Integration

The hardware is only half of the equation when it comes to 3D scanning; the software that processes and refines the raw data is equally important. Look for scanners that come with robust software solutions or are compatible with leading industry-standard programs. This ensures that you can seamlessly integrate the scanned data into your workflow, whether you're creating visual effects for a movie or designing a new product.

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Nicholas Jensen

CSI Detective at Davis County Sheriff's Office
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3D scanning is not a difficult process. It does not take a lot of time to learn the skills necessary to be able to capture a scene with a scanner. The difficulty comes when utilizing the software attached to your specific scanner to bring in the scanned information and do something useful with it. The ability to accurately use the point cloud captured by the scanner takes time and practice.

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6 Future Innovations

The field of 3D scanning is constantly evolving, with new advancements improving accuracy, speed, and functionality. Future innovations may include even more user-friendly interfaces, faster processing times, and integration with emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR). Keeping an eye on these developments will help you stay ahead of the curve and continue to produce high-quality 3D models with the latest technology available.

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Nicholas Jensen

CSI Detective at Davis County Sheriff's Office
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In the last six years, 3D scanners have progressed dramatically. Looking at FARO specifically, their scanners have progressed to the point of being able to capture more than twice as much information in less than half the time. Considering the mechanics involved, it is quite impressive how far the hardware and software have come in a short amount of time. FARO has also incorporated photogrammetry which allows drone photographs or videos to be incorporated into a point cloud that can be merged with information obtained with the 3D scanner. The possibilities are endless.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the top 3D scanning devices for capturing accurate models?

1

2

3

4

5

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1 Handheld Options

2 Stationary Scanners

3 Full-Body Scanners

4 Color Capture

5 Software Integration

6 Future Innovations

7 Here’s what else to consider

3D Graphics

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What are the top 3D scanning devices for capturing accurate models?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Handheld Options

2 Stationary Scanners

3 Full-Body Scanners

4 Color Capture

5 Software Integration

6 Future Innovations

7 Here’s what else to consider

3D Graphics

Rate this article

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