To scan small objects for 3D printing, you need a 3D scanner that can capture high-resolution details and accurate dimensions. There are different types of 3D scanners available, such as laser, structured light, photogrammetry, and handheld scanners. Depending on your budget, preference, and object size, you can choose the best 3D scanner for your needs.
In this article, we will explain how to scan small objects for 3D printing using different methods, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each method. We will also provide some tips and best practices for getting the best results from your 3D scans.
Laser scanners use a laser beam to scan the surface of an object and measure its distance from the scanner. The scanner then creates a point cloud of the object, which can be converted into a 3D model using software. Laser scanners are very precise and can capture fine details, but they are also expensive and require a stable environment to avoid errors.
To scan small objects with a laser scanner, you need to place the object on a rotating platform and position the scanner at a suitable distance and angle. The scanner will then rotate around the object and scan it from different perspectives. You may need to scan the object multiple times to cover all the angles and sides. After scanning, you can use software to align, merge, and clean up the point clouds, and export the 3D model in a format compatible with your 3D printer.
Some examples of laser scanners that can scan small objects are:
EinScan-SE: A desktop 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 200 x 200 x 200 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.1 mm and an accuracy of 0.1 mm. It costs around $1,399.
Matter and Form V2: A portable 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 250 x 190 x 190 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.1 mm and an accuracy of 0.25 mm. It costs around $749.
HP 3D Structured Light Scanner Pro S3: A professional 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 300 x 300 x 300 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.05 mm and an accuracy of 0.03 mm. It costs around $3,499.
Structured light scanners use a projector and a camera to project a pattern of light onto the object and capture its shape and texture. The scanner then uses software to reconstruct the 3D model from the images. Structured light scanners are faster and more accurate than laser scanners, but they are also more sensitive to ambient light and reflections.
To scan small objects with a structured light scanner, you need to place the object on a rotating platform and position the scanner in front of it. The scanner will then project a series of patterns onto the object and capture the images with the camera. You may need to scan the object multiple times to cover all the angles and sides. After scanning, you can use software to align, merge, and edit the images, and export the 3D model in a format compatible with your 3D printer.
Some examples of structured light scanners that can scan small objects are:
Shining 3D EinScan-SP: A desktop 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 200 x 200 x 200 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.05 mm and an accuracy of 0.05 mm. It costs around $2,499.
Occipital Structure Sensor Mark II: A mobile 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 200 x 200 x 200 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.5 mm and an accuracy of 0.5 mm. It costs around $399.
Artec Space Spider: A handheld 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 300 x 300 x 300 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.1 mm and an accuracy of 0.05 mm. It costs around $27,600.
Photogrammetry Scanners
Photogrammetry scanners use a camera or a smartphone to take multiple photos of the object from different angles and distances. The scanner then uses software to stitch the photos together and create a 3D model. Photogrammetry scanners are cheap and easy to use, but they require a lot of photos and processing time, and they may not capture fine details or complex shapes.
To scan small objects with a photogrammetry scanner, you need to place the object on a plain background and take photos of it from different angles and distances. You should take at least 20 photos per side, and cover the entire object. You should also avoid shadows, reflections, and movements. After taking the photos, you can use software to upload, align, and reconstruct the 3D model, and export it in a format compatible with your 3D printer.
Some examples of photogrammetry software that can scan small objects are:
3DF Zephyr: A desktop software that can create 3D models from photos, with a resolution of 0.1 mm and an accuracy of 0.1 mm. It costs around $149.
Agisoft Metashape: A desktop software that can create 3D models from photos, with a resolution of 0.05 mm and an accuracy of 0.05 mm. It costs around $179.
Display.land: A mobile app that can create 3D models from photos, with a resolution of 1 mm and an accuracy of 1 mm. It is free to use.
Handheld Scanners
Handheld scanners are devices that you can hold and move around the object to scan it. They use different technologies, such as laser, structured light, or infrared, to capture the shape and texture of the object. Handheld scanners are convenient and versatile, but they may also introduce errors and noise due to hand movements and environmental factors.
To scan small objects with a handheld scanner, you need to hold the scanner at a constant distance and angle from the object and move it slowly and steadily around the object. You should try to cover the entire object and avoid occlusions and gaps. You should also follow the instructions and feedback from the scanner and the software. After scanning, you can use software to refine, smooth, and optimize the 3D model, and export it in a format compatible with your 3D printer.
Some examples of handheld scanners that can scan small objects are:
Sense 3D Scanner: A handheld 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 200 x 200 x 200 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.9 mm and an accuracy of 1 mm. It costs around $499.
Scanse Sweep: A handheld 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 100 x 100 x 100 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.1 mm and an accuracy of 0.1 mm. It costs around $349.
Thor3D Calibry: A handheld 3D scanner that can scan objects up to 300 x 300 x 300 mm in size, with a resolution of 0.3 mm and an accuracy of 0.1 mm. It costs around $5,990.
To get the best results from your 3D scans, you should follow these tips and best practices:
Choose the best 3D scanner for your needs, based on your budget, preference, and object size.
Prepare the object and the environment for scanning, by cleaning the object, removing any accessories or labels, and choosing a plain and stable background.
Calibrate the 3D scanner before scanning, by following the instructions and guidelines from the scanner and the software.
Scan the object from different angles and sides, and cover the entire object without leaving any gaps or occlusions.
Use software to align, merge, and edit the 3D model, and remove any errors, noise, or artifacts.
Export the 3D model in a format compatible with your 3D printer, and check the dimensions, orientation, and quality of the model.
Enjoy your 3D printed object!
Conclusion
Scanning small objects for 3D printing can be a fun and rewarding experience, as you can create unique and personalized objects from your own scans. However, it can also be challenging and time-consuming, as you need to choose the right 3D scanner, prepare the object and the environment, scan the object carefully, and process the 3D model. By following the methods and tips in this article, you can scan small objects for 3D printing with ease and confidence. Happy scanning and printing!
