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Laser Scanner
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Structured Light
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Trends and Innovations
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How to Choose
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3D scanning is a process of capturing the shape and dimensions of an object or a scene using a device that emits or reflects light. There are different types of 3D scanning technologies, but two of the most common ones are laser scanner and structured light. How do they work and what are their advantages and disadvantages? In this article, we will compare and contrast these two methods and explore some of the current trends and innovations in the field.
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1 Laser Scanner
A laser scanner uses a beam of laser light to scan an object or a scene. The scanner measures the distance and angle of the reflected light to create a point cloud, which is a collection of data points that represent the surface of the object or scene. Laser scanners can be handheld, tripod-mounted, or fixed on a vehicle or a drone. They can scan large and complex objects and environments with high accuracy and speed. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as being sensitive to ambient light, occlusion, and surface reflectivity. They can also be expensive and heavy to operate.
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2 Structured Light
A structured light scanner uses a projector and a camera to scan an object or a scene. The projector emits a pattern of light, such as stripes or grids, onto the object or scene. The camera captures the distortion of the pattern caused by the shape and depth of the object or scene. The scanner then uses algorithms to reconstruct a 3D model from the images. Structured light scanners can be compact, lightweight, and affordable. They can also capture fine details and textures of the object or scene. However, they also have some limitations, such as being slower than laser scanners, requiring multiple scans from different angles, and having difficulty with shiny or transparent surfaces.
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3 Trends and Innovations
The field of laser scanner and structured light technologies is constantly evolving and improving. For instance, a hybrid system combining the two methods has been developed to leverage their strengths and overcome their weaknesses. Additionally, artificial intelligence and machine learning have been employed to enhance the quality and efficiency of 3D scanning and modeling. Furthermore, new applications and markets for 3D scanning, such as healthcare, education, entertainment, and heritage preservation, have been established. Lastly, 3D scanning devices and software are becoming more accessible and affordable for consumers and professionals.
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4 How to Choose
There is no definitive answer to which 3D scanning technology is better or more suitable for your needs. It depends on various factors, such as your budget, your project scope, your desired accuracy and resolution, your available time and space, and your personal preference. You should consider the pros and cons of each method and compare them based on your specific criteria. You should also test and evaluate different options before making a final decision.
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5 Resources and Tips
If you're interested in learning more about 3D scanning technologies and how to use them, there are a few resources and tips that might help. Consider exploring online platforms and communities such as 3D Scan Expert, Scaniverse, and Sketchfab which offer tutorials, reviews, guides, and support for 3D scanning enthusiasts and professionals. Additionally, you can access free or low-cost 3D models and data sets from online libraries and repositories such as Smithsonian 3D, Google Poly, and 3D Warehouse. There are also various 3D scanning devices and software available to suit your level of experience and budget such as Microsoft Kinect, Intel RealSense, Photogrammetry, or Meshroom. Practicing your 3D scanning skills with best practices like choosing a suitable location, preparing your object or scene, adjusting your settings, and cleaning your data will help you improve your results.
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