How do you choose the best scanner for clay models?

1 Why scan clay models?

Scanning clay models can offer several benefits for automotive designers. First, it can save time and money, as you can avoid remaking the models from scratch in CAD. Second, it can preserve the original design intent and quality, as you can retain the subtle details and nuances of the clay. Third, it can enable collaboration and feedback, as you can share and edit the scanned models with other designers and stakeholders.

2 What are the types of scanners?

When scanning clay models, the type of scanner used depends on the size, shape, and accuracy of the model. Contact scanners are precise and reliable but slow and may damage the clay. Optical scanners use light sources to project patterns and capture shape with cameras; they are fast and non-invasive but may struggle with shiny or dark surfaces. Photogrammetry scanners use multiple cameras to take photos from different angles and reconstruct geometry with software; they are flexible and affordable but require good lighting and alignment.

3 How to evaluate scanners?

When selecting a scanner for clay models, there are several factors to consider, such as resolution, speed, ease of use, and cost. Resolution measures the smallest detail that the scanner can capture, usually in microns or millimeters. Speed refers to the time taken to scan the model, typically in seconds or minutes. Ease of use is the level of skill and effort required to operate and calibrate the scanner. Finally, cost is the price of the scanner, usually in dollars or euros. The higher the resolution and speed, and the lower the cost and ease of use, the better the scanning process will be.

4 How to prepare clay models?

Before scanning clay models, it is important to take certain steps to ensure a good quality scan. This includes cleaning the model to remove any dust, dirt, or fingerprints from the surface, as these can interfere with the scanner's performance and accuracy. Additionally, markers such as stickers or dots should be applied on the model as they can help the scanner to align and register the scan data. Lastly, the model should be placed on a stable and flat surface such as a table or turntable and adjusted in orientation and distance from the scanner according to the scanner's specifications.

5 How to process scan data?

After scanning clay models, you need to process the scan data to make it ready for CAD software. This includes aligning and merging multiple parts or angles into a single mesh or point cloud, smoothing and filling any gaps, holes, or noise with software tools or algorithms, and converting and exporting the scan data to a format compatible with your CAD software, such as STL or OBJ.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?