3D scanning
3D scanning — turning a physical part into a digital model
3D scanning measures the surface of a real object and produces a point cloud and mesh as a digital 3D model. It is used for reverse engineering, measurement and digital archiving.
How it works
The scanner captures the object with structured light, laser or photogrammetry; the resulting point cloud is aligned and converted into a mesh. Holes can be filled, noise cleaned, and an STL/CAD output produced.
Key properties
- Accuracy ranges from microns to millimetres.
- Handheld, desktop and industrial types exist.
- Glossy/transparent surfaces may need matting spray.
- Point clouds usually create larger files than CAD.
- Produces a mesh that can be edited afterwards.
Use cases
- Reverse engineering (part to CAD)
- Quality control and measurement
- Digitalising artwork and archives
- Extracting a model for a spare part
Compatible materials
Structured lightLaser scanningPhotogrammetryContact scanning (CMM)Computed tomography (CT)
Frequently asked questions
Which parts suit scanning?
Matte, opaque and reasonably large surfaces give the best results; glossy or transparent surfaces are matted with scanning spray.
Can the scan be produced directly?
The point cloud/mesh usually needs cleanup and repair; it is then exported as STL/3MF for 3D printing or CAD.
Scanner or photogrammetry?
A scanner suits high accuracy and fine detail; photogrammetry suits large, textured objects and lower cost.