What is 3D Scanning?
3D scanning is the process of capturing and analysing real-world objects to construct high-resolution digital models. There are several types of 3D scanners used daily all across the globe, we will focus on the 3 main scanning technologies used within art, design and architecture; Photogrammetry, Laser Scanning & Structured Light Scanning (SLS)
Other types of scanning include; Magnetic Resonance imaging, computed tomography (CT) , Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) and contact based (probe) scanning. Typically these scanning technologies are used more broadly for scientific, medical and industrial applications.
Photogrammetry
Photgraphs are taken of an object at multiple angles. These images are then stitched together in 3D by analysing common features and triangulating their position relative to other frames and camera positions
Typical Applications
Architecture & planning (Mapping and Land Aerial Surveying)
Archaeology & Cultural Heritage
ARG, VRG creating digitised versions of medium & large objects & scenes
Benefits
Full colour & texture scans
Medium Range
Scan large objects quickly - synchronous capture with multiple devices
Inexpensive
Disadvantages
Low/Medium Resolution. Scans best suited for 3D rending with texture rather
Significant post processing
No real-time feedback.
Laser Scanning
Laser light is projected onto an object's surface while a measuring apparatus (receiver or camera) is used to capture the reflected light data generating complex three dimensional point clouds.
Typical Applications
Scanning medium - very large objects (eg automobiles, small structures, buildings, airplanes, wind turbines)
reverse engineering and quality inspection purposes
Mobile mapping
Benefits
Fast
Less sensitive to lighting conditions (function well in low light or complete darkness)
Real-time feedback
Disadvantages
Sensitive to secondary reflections from environment
Cost
Noisy Data
Structured Light Scanning (SLS)
A series of structured light patterns are projected onto an object's surface while cameras record the pattern's distortion in real time. Each frame is analysed by SLS Software to construct a series of 3D data frames
Typical Applications
reverse engineering and CAD-based design
documentation of archaeological, cultural, and historical artefacts
Benefits
Full colour & texture scans
High Resolution
Real-time feedback
Disadvantages
Asynchronous capture
Sensitive to vibration
Does not work with highly reflective or transparent objects
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