3D scanning is one of the most key components of 3D printing. Without 3D scanning, the 3D printing process can’t happen. Through 3D scanning, the design of the component that needs manufacturing is digitised and mapped into a digital three-dimensional space that can then be read by a 3D printer and produce the aforementioned component. 3D scanning then allows for many engineering capabilities that we will be discussing in this blog. Let’s take a look.
Who Uses 3D Scanning?
From technicians to architects, mechanics, engineers and even hobbyists, 3D scanning has become widely used by many. As 3D scanning becomes more and more mainstream, its capabilities expand accordingly. 3D scanning is, therefore, becoming very prevalent in manufacturing industries more than ever before. There are companies that offer smaller-scale businesses 3D laser scanning services at affordable rates.
Types of 3D Scanners:
There are two main types of 3D scanners, long-range scanners and short-range scanners:
Long-range Scanners:
Long-range 3D scanners scan and map the geometry of a large object or a large space. Long-range scanners work by mapping a large object in multiple scans which are then connected by points and combined into one big scan. Long-range scanning is usually required for objects that are either large or at a distance from the scanner.
Short-range Scanners:
Short-range 3D scanners are used for objects within one metre of the scanner. There are two further subtypes of short-range scanners: Contact scanners and non-contact scanners.
Short-range scanners are very versatile in the sense that they can map smaller objects but also bigger objects like an aeroplane too. There are many popular engineering and technical applications of a short-range scanner that make it a very popular choice in the processes of reverse engineering, rapid prototyping, etc.
3D Scanning Principles
The main principle of a 3D scanner is that it employs the use of light sensors or laser sensors to detect the surface of the object that needs to be scanned. And once the 3D scanner catches the reflection of light shined onto the surface of the object back onto its scanners, it creates a data point. Depending on the size of the object, hundreds or thousands of these data points combine together to create a digital design.
Common 3D Scanning Applications
The most common kind of 3D scanning applications ranges from engineering to architecture, art, education and even hobbies. There are also 3D scanning applications in the medical field that are very important. As 3D scanning has evolved, so have its applications.
Applications/Benefits of 3D Scanning
Let’s take a look at the various phases and places where 3D scanning can be implemented:
Concept Design
3D scanning can help in conceptualising a design. Multiple objects can be scanned and then combined together to form a concept design that can then be presented for further refinement. The final concept design can then be produced accordingly.
Prototyping
3D scanning is advantageous in the prototype phase as it can reduce the number of prototype design cycles that are needed. This is possible due to the precision that 3D scanning allows that designers can make use of. So, instead of repeatedly producing a design physically and then refining it, 3D scanning allows for digital refinement.
Engineering
3D scanning streamlines the engineering analysis process. The 3D scan data of an object can be utilised directly in the engineering phase of the project. The engineering analysis processes that 3D scanning streamlines are CFD, CAE, FEA, and other processes.
Production
In production, 3D scanning helps by capturing the designs that are constructed and then refining them to ensure that every product produced adheres to that design. And if there is any deviation from the approved design, then that specific piece can be taken out and either reshaped or discarded.
Quality Control
Short-range non-contact scanners are used in the quality control phase of manufacturing. Any parts produced are analysed and inspected. This is quite similar to the previous part but this part is more general and checks the produced parts for any mistakes or issues that might affect the integrity of the part. In this part, only the outside of the part or product manufactured is scanned, and it is seen as a cursory scan to finalise the part.
Distribution
There are vision systems that employ 3D scanning technology to track packages and ensure their integrity. These vision systems enhance the reliability and integrity of the package delivering process.
Conclusion
The implementations of 3D scanning seem to be expanding further and further. And rightfully so, as it streamlines and improves the quality of manufacturing processes across industries. Cad Deziners offer 3D scanning services in Melbourne at affordable rates that you can avail for your business or organisation. So, contact us today!
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The global 3D scanning market size was valued at USD 3.32 billion in 2015 and is anticipated to reach USD 8.04 billion by 2025.
In addition to offering quick results with better efficiency, the technology is easily affordable and economical.
Nevertheless, the structured light and optical product segments are projected to gain market share at the fastest pace from 2014 to 2020.
Additionally, to ensure precise specifications and accuracy, 3D scanning also provides speedy quality inspection.Range Insights3D scanners are categorised into short range, medium range, and long range scanners on the basis of range and distance.
In the manufacturing and engineering sector, and 3D scanning plays a vital role as a part of quality assessment and control systems.
Utilization of 3D scanning systems offer an environment of historic times by effectively setting up virtual museums by scanning for virtual museums online or on-site and representing art pieces for multimedia presentations.
