3d scanner for shoe last

Types of 3D scanners for shoe lasts

The 3D scanner for shoe last is used to digitize and create a 3D model of the shoe last. A shoe last is a foot-shaped mold used to make shoes. It comes in various sizes and shapes based on foot contours. Several types of 3D scanners can be used for shoe lasts, including handheld 3D scanners, blue light 3D scanners, laser 3D scanners, and structured light 3D scanners.

• Handheld 3D scanner: A handheld scanner is small and easy to operate. It can be used to scan a shoe last of any size. Some common types of handheld 3D scanners for shoe lasts are laser and structured-light 3D scanners. They project a laser or light onto the shoe last to capture its shape. The data collected is used to create a 3D model. Recently, some handheld scanners use photogrammetry to create a 3D model instead of laser or light projection. It works by taking multiple pictures of the shoe last from different angles and using the software to generate a 3D model. A good example of a photogrammetry scanner is the Revopoint Handy Scan series.

  Although versatile, the handheld 3D scanner may not be the right choice for many users. The operator's skill level can affect the process and end results. Some may find it difficult to operate. Also, the scanning process can take longer.

• Blue light scanner: As the name implies, this scanner uses blue light to scan the shoe last. The blue light scanner provides a high level of accuracy and details. It is great for capturing precise measurements of the shoe last. However, this type of scanner tends to be more expensive than the others.

• Laser 3D scanner: The laser scanner is known for its excellent precision and works by capturing the shoe last's geometry with a laser beam. Similar to the blue light scanner, this scanner also provides great accuracy and is widely used in the shoe industry to create a 3D model of the shoe last. The laser 3D scanner can be handheld or stationary. Most of them are more costly than the other options.

• Structured light 3D scanner: Unlike the laser scanner, the structured light scanner uses a known pattern of projected light (usually from a projector) and a camera to capture the shape of the shoe last. This scanner is user-friendly, making the scanning procedure much faster. It is budget friendly and great for users just starting in the shoe last 3D scanning business.

Functions & Features

A 3D scanner can create accurate digital representations of shoe lasts. It uses laser or structured light scanning technologies to capture the shape of the shoe last in fine detail. Then, the generated point cloud data can be modified or edited before being exported in STL or OBJ format for 3D printing. Generally, here are some features that can usually be found on a 3D scanner for shoe lasts:

• Scanning Resolution and Accuracy: This feature denotes how detailed and exact the 3D model of the shoe last will be. A variety of shoe last 3D scanners are available in the market, with different resolutions and accuracies. The interest of the customers will dictate which resolution and accuracy will be opted for. High-resolution and highly accurate scanners will have higher prices and vice versa.
• Speed of Scanning: The scanning process takes a lot of time, depending on the speed of the scanner. Faster scanners will reduce turnaround time for creating 3D models. However, the speed of the shoe last 3D scanner must be optimal, as extremely fast scanners may reduce the model's resolution and accuracy.
• Ease of Use: This feature highlights the requirement of complicated technical skills or expertise to run the 3D scanner scanning process. Portable 3D scanners are more user-friendly than fixed ones. Also, 3D scanning software with automatic processing and easy-to-understand interfaces is better for users without technical know-how.
• Versatility: The versatility of the scanner is an important one. Handheld scanners are more versatile than tabletop scanners as they can scan a variety of objects. Also, multi-objective scanners can scan objects using laser and structured light scanning technologies.
• Post Processing: After the scanning process is completed, the 3D model of the shoe last requires some post-processing to be ready for 3D printing. Some scanners give out ready-to-print models immediately. Others require users to perform some processing steps.

Usage scenarios of 3D scanners for shoe lasts

A 3D shoe last scanner accurately captures the shape of a shoe last in great detail. A shoe last is the model used to make shoes that resembles the feet. It is usually thin and curved alongside the foot's shape. Scanning a shoe last can be done in several ways, depending on the scanner used. It can be placed on the turntable so it rotates as the scanner takes images from different angles. Alternatively, some scanners have the scanner placed inside the shoe, moving it side to side. Hand-held scanners can also be used, where the scanner moves around the shoe last to collect data points.

The scanned data can be turned into a 3D digital model that represents the shape and size of the shoe last. This offers shoemakers an efficient way to get accurate measurements of different lasts within a short time. The 3D model can also be modified to suit specific needs, enhancing personalizations. With a 3D scanner for shoe lasts, there are several applications for it in the shoe and fashion industry.

• Shoe manufacturing: Quick and precise scanning of shoe lasts helps manufacturers create shoes that fit well. The shoe last is essential for making shoes; therefore, getting accurate measurements of different lasts is important. In addition, the scanned data can be used to make shoes for people with foot deformities, providing them with customized fits.
• Shoe last production: Companies that make shoe lasts can utilize 3D scanners to scan and digitize various shoe last designs. The scanned data can be used to make CNC cutting files or mold designs. They can also store the 3D models so they can be used later, or they can sell them to shoe manufacturers.
• Quality control: 3D scanners can monitor the production of shoe lasts to ensure they meet the required standards. They can also be used to compare the scanned data of a finished shoe last with the original model to ensure it is accurate. Any defects or deviations from the specification can be corrected before the shoes are assembled or mass-produced.
• Shoe customization: Designers can use 3D scanners to obtain accurate measurements of a customer's foot and use the data to create personalized shoe lasts. These shoe lasts can be made to fit each customer's specific shape and size, giving them a unique and comfortable fit.
• Archiving designs: 3D scanners provide an efficient way to keep digital records of different shoe last designs. This makes it easy for manufacturers to retrieve and use specific designs when needed and ensures the safe storage of design data for future use.

How to Chooose 3D scanners for shoe lasts

All 3D scanners do the same job, but some work better in scanning shoe lasts than others. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a 3D scanner:

• Size and Resolution Shoes Lasts

  The shoe last to be scanned will determine the size and volume of the scanner. For instance, if the shoe lasts are small in size, a small 3D scanner should be used. If they are large in size, a larger 3D scanner will be needed. Also, the precision or accuracy required for the scan will determine the resolution of the scanner. If high precision is needed, a scanner with high resolution should be used.

• 3D Scanner Technology

  The type of 3D scanner technology used will depend on the size, geometry, texture, and material of the shoe last to be scanned. Popular types of scanners include laser, structured light, and handheld. For example, laser scanners are great for scanning objects with very reflective surfaces, while handheld scanners are suitable for scanning shoe lasts with complex geometries.

• Scanning Speed and Ease of Use

  The ease of using the 3D scanner system is crucial. Buyers or users who are less technically savvy will need a scanner that is very easy to set up and use. Also, the scanning speed of the machine is a crucial factor to consider, especially if several shoe lasts need to be scanned in a limited time. Users will have to determine the scanner's productivity and efficiency if it can work well under pressure or if it works best in a slow, methodical environment.

• Cost and Support

  The 3D scanner costs, whether it is affordable or within budget, is one of the first things buyers will consider before getting one. But beyond the scanner's cost, the support, warranty, and services offered by the manufacturer should also be considered. If a buyer purchased a 3D scanner and has questions about how to use it, what kind of support will be available? What kind of warranty does the scanner come with? Also, what brand offers the best?

FAQs

Q1: What is the shoe last 3D scanner’s range?

A1: There is no specific range for 3D scanners for shoe lasts. The range depends on the scanner's model and specifications. However, most 3D scanners can comfortably fit on a shoe last conveyor for bulk scanning or can be held by hand for individual scanning.

Q2: Can I use a 3D scanner for shoe lasts for other objects?

A2: Yes, this scanner can be used to scan other objects apart from shoe lasts. The shoe last 3D scanner has general-purpose scanning capabilities that allow it to scan different objects.

Q3: Does the 3D shoe last scanner affect the environment?

A3: No, shoe last 3D scanners do not affect the environment. Laser and structured light scanners emit low-level radiation that is harmless to the human body and the environment. The radiation levels are far below the required occupational safety and health standards.

Q4: What file formats does the 3D scanner produce?

A4: 3D shoe last scanners can produce various file formats depending on the scanner's model and design. Commonly used file formats include STL, OBJ, PLY, 3MF, and XYZ. These formats are compatible with many CAD and 3D printing software.

Q5: How long does it take to scan a shoe last?

A5: The scanning process duration depends on the shoe last 3D scanner's speed and resolution settings. Generally, it takes a few seconds to several minutes to complete the scan.