3D Scanning Tutorial
Overview
The GSD has three 3D scanners available for use.
1. David 3D Laserscanner / HP Structured Light Scanner(SLS)
The David 3D Laserscanner is a structured light scanner, which means that it projects a pattern of light onto the object being scanned and captures the projected image, determining the shape of the object via the distortion of the pattern. The scanner is a combination of a light projector and two capturing cameras that needs to be set up on a tripod. Therefore a studio setting is best for using this scanner. the David also comes with an automatic turntable to speed up the process.
What is possible with the David 3D Laserscanner? https://www8.hp.com/us/en/campaign/3Dscanner/overview.html#software
2. Artec Eva
The Artec Eva is a powerful handheld scanner. I swiftly captures a given frame while precisely stitching that view to the previous views to create a 3D scan. It is appropriate for situations when you can't bring the scanning target/object into a studio. However the scanner needs to be connected to a laptop with an Artec Studio license and a power source at all times. The Eva is also fit for human scanning because of its fast capturing speed.
Learn more at https://www.artec3d.com/portable-3d-scanners/artec-eva
3. Structure Sensor for iPad
When used as a 3D scanner, the Structure Sensor allows you to capture dense geometry in real-time. This enables you to simulate real world physics and create high-fidelity 3D models with high-resolution textures in seconds. It can quickly scan interiors, people and objects and exports files quickly via email. This option is best when you want a quick low-mid resolution scan and don't want to be tethered in any way when 3D scanning.
What is possible with the Structure Sensor for iPad?
https://structure.io/use/3d-scanning
How it works - https://youtu.be/CvMzik6SGmM?t=119
Scanning humans with the Structure Sensor - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coYebICo2O8
Quick Comparison Chart
David/HP | Artec Eva | Structure Sensor (iPad) | |
---|---|---|---|
Resolution | High | High | Low-Mid |
Post Processing Required | Yes, within native software | Yes, within native software | No |
Setup Required | Projector, two cameras, tripod, calibration, | Eva scanner, Artec Studio Software, Laptop | No |
Recommended Setting | Indoor studio with white or black backdrop depending on the object being scanned (Backdrop should contrast the object) | Indoor / Outdoor, Must have access to power source and a laptop with Artec Studio license | Anywhere; Tends to have difficulty scanning |
Shiny or Dark | Has difficulty scanning, object needs to be prepared with baby powder | Can scan | Has difficulty scanning, object needs to be prepared with baby powder |
Output File Types | OBJ, STL, PLY, DAVIDMESH + Textures | OBJ, STL, PLY, SCAN, SPROJ, WRL +Textures | OBJ, STL +Textures |
Recommended | Max 30cm x 30cm x 30cm | No Limit when creating multiple scans and stitching together | Min 2.5cm x 2.5cm x 2.5cm (1"x1"x1")
|
Scan Rooms? | No | Possible, but not recommended | Yes (Use Interior Mode) |
What other options are there?
Photogrammetry with Autodesk Recap: This software allows you to upload a series of photographs of an object to their servers to generate a 3D model that can be downloaded. Students can get free access to the program, but is put on a slower "student queue" when processing photos to generate a model.
Similar softwares: Agisoft Metashape (Formerly Agisoft Photoscan)
See: Scanning Technique Comparison
The following pages of this tutorial were created to help inform you of the of 3D scanning process and related material processes:
Scanning Technique Comparison
[Artec Eva] Initial Set Up and First Scan
[DAVID/HP] Initial Setup
[DAVID/HP] Calibration
[DAVID/HP] Capture Scans
[DAVID/HP] Scan Alignment and Fusion
[DAVID5] Setup for Two Cameras and Turntable
Post Production in Geomagic
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