Factors to Take into Account When Buying 3D Scanners

The use of 3D scanners may not be as prevalent as printers but it is a part of the awesome world of 3D printing. Scanners are not as complicated and they sure make for an easier way of printing existing items without having to spend hours making them from scratch. 3D scanning can be used in a great variety of fields. For every application, the needed features to generate a 3D model are different. For that very reason, the 3D scanner has to be chosen according to your desired use and results. Here are some of the elements to take into account before deciding which product is best for you.

Use

There are different types of scanners and all of them have different applications. For example, professional 3D scanners Australia experts claim are ideal for dentists, architects, figurine makers and body scanning in healthcare. Desktop or handheld scanners for personal use are usually cheaper and they are meant to be used occasionally to scan household objects or ones that are rather small. The capabilities of a 3D scanner should match your needs and not the other way around.

Object Properties

If you happen to scan humans and animals it is better that you avoid laser scanners as they can be harmful to the eyes. Instead, go for models that use photogrammetry. The surface of the objects that you want to scan can have an impact on the scanner’s technology, as reflective or transparent surfaces can cause issues with structured light and photogrammetry scanners. The bigger the object you want to scan is – the greater the distance you will need to scan it properly. This typically requires the use of some more expensive scanners which range from 43,000 to 285,000 AUD. These are high-end scanners we are talking about so you won’t need them unless you are going to be scanning statues.

Resolution

The resolution of the scanner is the main factor that will directly affect the price of it. The greater the numbers are, the more details you’ll be able to get from an object thus a higher quality item will be printed. This doesn’t mean that you should go with the highest resolution scanner as chances are you won’t need it as often to purchase it.

Technology

We’ve already gone through structured light and photogrammetry, with the former being great for high accuracy measurements and the latter a safe option for scanning humans and animals. Laser 3D scanners Australia experts claim are great for inanimate objects while contact scanners, like structured light, are great for high accuracy scans, but they shouldn’t be used on delicate items as the process can cause damage.