Library MakerSpace: 3D Imaging
3D Imaging Overview
What Is 3D Imaging?
3D imaging describes the process of using a 3D scanner to collect data from an object's surface to create a three-dimensional model. Depending on the 3D scanner, the data gathered can range from the shape of the object to capturing the color and texture of the surface. The image is captured most often using a camera with a line of laser light or flashing lights.
Pictured below is the rough data points from an object that was quickly 3D scanned using the Artec Eva.
3D Scanners in the MakerSpace
Artec Eva Handheld 3D Scanner
The Artec Eva 3D scanner collects high resolution measurements of an object's surface through the combined efforts of flashing lights and a camera quickly and efficiently. The Artec Eva boasts a 16 Frames Per Second capturing speed, with the ability to capture up to two million points per second with 0.2 mm resolution. All you have to do is point and scan. The handheld scanner weighs 2 lbs and is easy to move.
This scanner works well for small and medium size objects, such as machine parts, furniture, and even a human body!
NextEngine 3D Scanner
The NextEngine 3D Scanner captures high quality 3D scans in full color through the combined efforts of a camera and laser light technology. Attached to the scanner is a turntable to place the object on. As the scanner works, the turntable will slowly turn the object, which allows the scanner to capture all sides of the object.
This scanner is perfect to capture small objects with irregular dimensions.
Artec Eva 3D Scanning Tutorials
NextEngine 3D Scanning Tutorial
FAQ and Policies
Answer: This answer changes depending on which 3D scanner you want to use. The best way to learn how to use a 3D scanner is to watch the video tutorials listed above and to schedule an in-person consultation with MakerSpace staff. You can email us to set up an appointment at librarymakerspace@unc.edu.
Answer: There is no hard limit on the size of the object that can be scanned, but generally we can scan objects as small as computer hardware screws to as big as furniture or a human body.
Answer: Yes. If your object is shiny, transparent, or has a dark surface, it will not scan well. We have a special powder that we can apply to the surface to make it suitable for 3D scanning. It will not damage your object and is easy to clean off. There are also sprays you can buy that will prepare the object to be scanned. To learn more about pre-processing, check here.
Answer: Nope! 3D scanning is contactless and will not put any strain on your object.
Answer: The complexity of an object’s surface determines how long it will take to scan it and how accurate that scan will be. The 3D scanner might struggle to accurately capture the data of an object with complex surfaces, curves, or angles. Additionally, scanning a more complex object will increase the amount of time needed to fix the 3D model in post-processing. 3D scanning is not a quick process and will likely take multiple hours from start to finish. Please ask us if you are concerned about whether your object can be accurately 3D scanned.
Additional Learning
Beginning Design for 3D Printing by
Beginning Design for 3D Printing is the full color go-to-guide for creating just about anything on a 3D printer. This book will demystify the design process for 3D printing, providing the proper workflows for those new to 3D printing, eager artists, seasoned engineers, 3D printing entrepreneurs, and first-time owners of 3D printers to ensure original ideas can be 3D printed. Beginning Design for 3D Printing explores a variety of 3D printing projects. Focus is on the use of freely available 3D design applications with step-by-step techniques that will demonstrate how to create a wide variety of 3D printable objects and illustrate the differences between splines, polygons, and solids. Users will get a deep understanding of a wide range modeling applications. They'll learn the differences between organic modeling tools, hard edge modeling, and precision, CAD-based techniques used to make 3D printable designs, practical products, and personalized works of art. Whether you are a student on a budget or a company exploring R & D options for 3D printing, Beginning Design for 3D Printing will provide the right tools and techniques to ensure 3D printing success.
ISBN: 9781484209479Publication Date: 2015-10-06
Mastering 3D Printing by
Mastering 3D Printing shows you how to get the most out of your printer, including how to design models, choose materials, work with different printers, and integrate 3D printing with traditional prototyping to make techniques like sand casting more efficient. You've printed key chains. You've printed simple toys. Now you're ready to innovate with your 3D printer to start a business or teach and inspire others. Joan Horvath has been an educator, engineer, author, and startup 3D printing company team member. She shows you all of the technical details you need to know to go beyond simple model printing to make your 3D printer work for you as a prototyping device, a teaching tool, or a business machine.
ISBN: 9781484200254Publication Date: 2014-01-01
Post Processing Software
- MeshMixerAn experimental 3D modeling tool whose goal is to make it easy to compose new 3D models from existing meshes.
- Fusion 360With their advanced features, Fusion 360 allows you to develop more complex models.