3D scanning is one of the best things to come out of modern technology.
Many people aren’t sure of what 3D scanning is, but it happens to save many companies time and money. As technology has evolved, engineers have come up with a device that is able to scan objects and analyze their data.
There are a variety of uses of a 3D scanner, allowing a plethora of industries to benefit from investing in one. If you run a business, 3D scanning might be something that you should consider.
Read on to learn more about what is 3D scanning and its many uses.
What Is 3D Scanning?
3D scanning is a process that involves using a machine to scan an object. When you scan an object, you can upload its data to a computer and access it on a program. No matter what kind of object you have, it can be scanned by a 3D scanner.
Many companies invest in 3D scanners if they’re manufacturing products because it makes it easier for them to create prototypes. When they scan a prototype, they can compare it to other models. That scanned object can then be altered on a 3D modelling program until it’s correct.
Modelling objects on a program is a convenient process because it doesn’t require you to keep manufacturing a prototype. You don’t need a 3D scanner to do this, but it makes modelling easier.
Its Use in Industrial Design
The industrial design and engineering industry is an industry that benefits the most from 3D scanning. Without 3D scanning, designers would have to use manual methods to come up with designs. Some of the manual methods include 3D modelling by hand and continuously manufacturing prototypes.
The design process consists of a variety of steps, all of which work toward a common goal. Product design, testing, development, and the product’s launch are a few of the steps that are simplified when 3D scanning is introduced.
When it comes to industrial design, objects come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. This can make the design process difficult for some people depending on what they’re working on. However, 3D scanners also come in different sizes and can be used to scan anything.
Handheld 3D scanners are the most common scanners and are used for smaller objects. These are used for things like toys or small tools. They’re portable and small enough to fit in storage of various sizes.
Stationary scanners are similar to handheld scanners, but they’re usually a bit larger. Large objects take a long time to scan, so stationary scanners are designed to get accurate data without movement. You can use these for vehicles, large statues, pieces of equipment, etc.
Other Industries That Benefit From 3D Scanning
While industrial design is an industry that greatly benefits from 3D scanning, there are many other industries that also make use of it. You’ll find that 3D scanning is commonly used in medical practice, forensics, archaeology, and art.
Here is how each industry uses 3D scanning:
Medicine
3D scanners are used in medical practice in cases where patients need special equipment. Depending on a patient’s injuries, a doctor may need to provide them with a device that fits them correctly. One of the common devices is a wheelchair, which can be modelled after the patient’s body is scanned.
When a person’s body is scanned, a desktop 3D scanner will provide information about the person’s shape and measurements. You’ll get a 3D model of the part that you scanned, the length, and the width.
Forensics
Crime scenes usually have a plethora of evidence that can be scanned. While forensic analysts will collect the evidence to examine, they’ll use 3D scanners so that they can make the inspection process simpler.
When they scan an object, they can use a program to make a simulation of what could’ve happened at the scene. Having a 3D scanner is also convenient for them because they can use it in daylight and at night.
Archaeology
When it comes to archaeology, 3D scanners make a world of difference. Archaeologists typically find remains that have a lot of bones. Whenever they want to replicate a skeleton, they have to manually model each part on a computer.
With a 3D scanner, archaeologists can scan each part and have models created automatically. This allows them to do their job more effectively and museums can display accurate replicas.
Art
Art is similar to the industrial industry when it comes to 3-dimensional objects because artists sometimes have to make various pieces. When they use a 3D scanner, they can scan an object and work on it on their computer instead of making various versions.
3D scanners are commonly used by game designers when they want to make virtual models of people. When you scan someone’s face, you can upload it directly to a 3D modeling program and attach it to a character model.
Invest in a 3D Scanner Today
If you work in an industry where you commonly deal with physical things, you may benefit from having a 3D scanner. Whether you’re an artist or work in forensics, 3D scanning will improve your productivity and give you quick results.
We encourage you to consider buying one now that you know the answer to the question, “What is 3D scanning?” Anyone that owns a manufacturing company should buy one to save their company both time and money.
Browse our articles to learn more about 3D scanning and other technologies.
