Overview
Depending on the particular technology being used laser scanning can offer many benefits over other types of scanning. Laser scanners typically operate by sweeping the device over the surface as it records thousands of points and the accompanying software constructs the associated mesh. This method of scanning is perfect for not only capturing an object’s basic form but also the details of its surface since the laser is often of very high accuracy. Occassionally, the surface may need to be treated with a matte finish or talcolm powder. This is done to reduce the reflectivity of the part so the laser can accurately reflect back to it’s source. Without treatment, a shiny surface may result is spikes or noise in the resulting data.
If interested in using the scanner we encourage you to contact us or read more about the process and relevant services.
How it Works
The University of Michigan 3D Lab has a Handyscan 3D scanner from Creaform. The scanner features an eye-safe scanning laser in tandem with an optical camera. The user applies small, white synthetic dots to the surface of an object in a random pattern. The camera tracks the relative position of these dots, and thus the object’s position in space. The laser records the object’s geometry and Handyscan’s software renders a 3d mesh in real-time letting you know as you scan what areas to focus on. With this system, the user may handle the scanned object while it is being scanned in order to expose every surface, and may complete part of the job and return to it later if desired.