Hand scan 3d scanner

Types of Hand Scan 3D Scanners

A hand scan 3D scanner uses laser triangulation, structured light, or infrared sensors to create 3D models of real-life objects. There are different types of hand scan 3D scanners available, including the following:

• Laser Handheld 3D Scanner: This type of scanner uses a laser beam and a handheld sensor to measure the object's geometry. The laser triangulation technique projects a laser onto the surface of the object. The laser beam's angle helps to determine the 3D shape of the object accurately. This type of 3D scanner is precise and works well on small and medium-sized objects. It can also be used in quality control applications in the manufacturing industry.
• Structured Light Handheld 3D Scanner: A structured light handheld 3D scanner uses a camera and a series of projected light patterns to capture the object's shape. The light patterns are distorted based on the object's geometry. Then, the camera records the distortion, which creates a 3D model of the object. This type of hand scanner works well on static objects and provides accurate detail. It works well on small parts, complex shapes, and assemblies.
• Time-of-Flight Scanner: This type of handheld 3D scanner emits infrared light. Then, it measures the time taken for the light to bounce back after hitting the object's surface. Time-of-flight scanners work well on larger objects and scenes. They have lower accuracy compared to laser and structured light scanners, but they are useful for quick scanning over a large area outdoors.
• Ultrasonic 3D Scanner: An ultrasonic 3D scanner uses sound waves to create a 3D model of an object. It emits sound waves from a handheld device and then measures how the sound waves bounce back. The scanned data gets converted into a 3D model. This type of handheld scanner works primarily on objects with unknown shapes and internal structures. It is commonly used in the oil and gas or aerospace industries.

Function and Feature

Handheld 3D scanners come with various features that facilitate portable and efficient scanning. While every model may differ, below are some common features:

• Lightweight and compact: Hand 3D scanners are designed to be lightweight and compact so that they fit comfortably within the palm. This ensures that the operator can hold the scanner for long hours without experiencing hand fatigue. Also, the small size makes it easy to carry the device from one place to another.
• Color capture: Some hand-held scanners have the ability to capture the color texture of the object alongside its geometry. This is made possible by the use of color cameras or additional sensors that enhance the final 3D model's visual detailing. A good example is an art object that has been perfectly scanned and preserved for future use or reference. The use of color capture provides natural visualization of the scanned object.
• Mesh generation: The handheld 3D scanner is equipped with software algorithms that generate a "preview" or "real-time" mesh. This allows the operator to view a rough 3D model as the scanning process goes on. The "preview" or "real-time" mesh assists in ensuring that the scan is performed accurately and completely before the final processing takes place.
• Battery-powered operation: Unlike 3D desktop scanners that must be plugged into a power source to function, handheld scanners are battery-operated. The device can be used in locations that do not have a power supply. It is also easy to use, as the operator does not have to worry about tripping cables or looking for sockets.
• Streaming mode: Some hand-held scanners allow the operator to see the scanned data in "real-time." This is referred to as streaming. For streaming to take place successfully, the scanned data must be transferred into a terminal via a wired or wireless connection. This capability assists in observing the scanning data for two purposes: to ensure that everything is in order, and to provide feedback for further adjustments.
• Scan-to-CAD software: CAD applications are usually used in the design industry to create 2D drawings and 3D models of different products. The Scan-to-CAD software simplifies the conversion of the scanned object into a CAD file format that can be used by the CAD software for further designing purposes. The CAD file contains both the geometric and dimensional information of the scanned object.

Applications of hand scan 3D scanner

• Healthcare

  The application of 3D hand scanners in the healthcare industry is broad and diverse. It is used in orthopedic clinics to create digital models of patients' hands that aids doctors in diagnosing and designing custom-fit orthopedic braces. Also, the hand scanners assist prosthetics in designing and fabricating prosthetic devices for amputee patients. They use the 3D scanner to obtain a highly accurate digital model of the residual limb, which assists in designing and fabricating prosthetic limbs tailored to individual needs.

• Jewlery

  Hand-held 3D scanners have transformed the jewelry design and manufacturing process. Designers can quickly scan existing jewelry pieces to get accurate digital versions of the scanned items. The digital jewelry designs can be modified or enhanced using CAD software. The 3D printer then prints the mold for casting or direct metal printing for producing the final piece. The use of hand-held 3D scanners in jewelry making has made the process quicker, and the level of detail and precision has increased greatly.

• Automotive

  The automotive sector uses the 3D hand scanner in various ways, like in quality control and inspection. After the car manufacturing process is completed, the hand scanner compares the final product with the design specifications to check for any differences. It provides accurate and detailed measurement. The scanning finds out any flaw or error in the product so that necessary correction can be made. The 3D hand scanner is also used in reverse engineering. If there is an old car part that is hard to get, manufacturers will scan the part with the 3D scanner to get a detailed digital model. Then, they will use that model to create a new replacement part with similar specifications. This helps to keep the old cars working well by getting new parts.

• Education

  The hand-held 3D scanner is a valuable addition to today's learning environment. Using the scanner in the classroom makes learning more fun and interactive. Important historical artifacts are scanned to create digital copies for preservation. The digital copies are used in augmented or virtual reality apps so that students can learn more about history in a 3D environment. Science projects also benefit from the 3D scan. Students can do experiments by scanning specimens like leaves and bugs. The detailed scan helps them to better understand concepts like size, shape, and texture. Engineering students work on design and building projects. They can scan machines and structures to get exact measurements and make more accurate plans. Objects can also be printed in 3D for hands-on prototyping. The scanner helps improve student skills in working with tools, technology, and teamwork through project-based learning.

How to Choose hand scan 3D scanners

Some factors to consider when choosing hand-held 3D scanners include:

• Size and weight: The hand-held 3D scanner's size and weight will affect its portability. A compact and lightweight scanner will be easy to carry around and use. Large and heavy scanners may only be used in the office because they are not easy to move around with.
• Power supply: Battery-powered hand-held 3D scanners offer greater portability than those with AC power. Scanners powered by batteries can be used in areas without electrical outlets, and at only up to 2 hours of scanning time, they can be recharged when they run low. Those with AC power can only be used in locations with electrical outlets.
• Scanning technology: Hand-held 3D scanners use different technologies to generate 3D models. Laser scanners capture precise geometries with high accuracy but take more time to scan an object. They are mostly used for industrial applications. On the other hand, structured light scanners project a pattern of light onto the object and capture the deformation of the light pattern with cameras. These scanners can produce high-resolution scans but work best on stationary objects. A time-of-flight scanner uses a pulsed laser and a camera to scan the object quickly, making it suitable for large, complex shapes. Its large scanning radius and fast scanning speed make it a good choice for hand-held 3D scanners, but it may compromise on accuracy.
• Accuracy and resolution: Accuracy refers to how close the measured value is to the actual value, while the resolution is the smallest detail that can be recognized or measured. Different applications require different levels of accuracy and resolution. Scanning small, detailed items like circuit boards needs high accuracy and resolution, but large sculptures can do with less.
• Connectivity options: After scanning an object, the generated 3D file may be transferred to other devices for further processing. Some hand-held 3D scanners have connectivity options like USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth to transfer files.

Q and A

Q: How can the 3D hand scanner be cleaned and maintained?

A: To keep the hand scanner in good condition, it's important to regularly clean the scanner windows and sensors according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid exposing the scanner to extreme temperatures, harsh chemicals, or physically rough handling. Check for software updates periodically and ensure the scanner is stored in a protective case when not in use.

Q: What are the sectors that benefit from the hand scan 3D scanner?

A: Multiple industries use the hand scan 3D scanner technology: manufacturing and production for quality check and reverse engineering; art conservation for digital documentation and preservation of cultural artifacts; healthcare for prosthetics, orthotics, and physical therapy; education for enhanced learning and interactive teaching; architecture for building, preservation, and site analysis; and entertainment for game development, animation, and virtual reality.

Q: How does the hand scan 3D scanner work?

A: While different models may have variations in their working procedures, generally, a handheld 3D scanner works by carefully capturing the geometric details of an object. This is accomplished by moving the device around the item to be scanned, where it computes numerous point coordinates — basically forming a cloud of points that closely resembles the shape of the object. Afterward, the point cloud is converted into a 3D digital model.

Q: What is the benefit of a hand scan 3D scanner over a fixed scanner?

A: Greater flexibility and versatility are some benefits of the hand scanner when compared to the hand-held fixed scanner. The hand scanner can be used to scan large or heavy objects that are not easily moved, unlike the fixed scanner. It provides faster workflow and operator-friendly performance. The wider working envelope of the hand scanner makes it versatile for different applications. It is easy to carry, portable, and results in high-resolution scans.

Q: How is the scanned data from the hand scanner transferred?

A: Most hand scanners use USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth to transfer scanned files. The scanned data is usually in the form of 3D files, which include .STL, .OBJ, .PLY, and .3MF formats.