You're looking to improve your industrial design projects. What 3D scanning hardware should you invest in?

1 Handheld scanners

Handheld scanners are portable devices that you can move around the object you want to scan. They are usually connected to a computer or a tablet via a cable or a wireless connection. Some handheld scanners use structured light, which projects a pattern of light onto the object and measures the distortions caused by its shape. Other handheld scanners use laser triangulation, which emits a laser beam and calculates the distance between the scanner and the object based on the angle of reflection. Handheld scanners are ideal for scanning small to medium-sized objects, such as jewelry, toys, or tools. They are also easy to use and relatively affordable. However, handheld scanners have some drawbacks, such as limited accuracy, sensitivity to movement and lighting conditions, and dependence on the skill of the operator.

2 Stationary scanners

Stationary scanners are fixed devices that scan the object from a single or multiple angles. They are usually mounted on a tripod, a table, or a platform. Some stationary scanners use photogrammetry, which takes multiple photos of the object from different perspectives and stitches them together to create a 3D model. Other stationary scanners use time-of-flight, which measures the time it takes for a pulse of light or sound to bounce back from the object. Stationary scanners are ideal for scanning large or complex objects, such as buildings, vehicles, or sculptures. They are also more accurate, stable, and consistent than handheld scanners. However, stationary scanners have some drawbacks, such as high cost, long scanning time, and difficulty in scanning shiny or transparent objects.

3 Body scanners

Body scanners are specialized devices that scan the human body or parts of it. They are usually composed of multiple cameras or sensors that capture the shape, texture, and color of the skin, hair, and clothing. Some body scanners use infrared light, which penetrates the surface of the skin and measures the depth and contours of the body. Other body scanners use white light, which reflects the surface of the skin and captures the details and variations of the texture and color. Body scanners are ideal for scanning people for various purposes, such as fashion, fitness, health, or entertainment. They are also fast, safe, and comfortable for the users. However, body scanners have some drawbacks, such as limited applicability, privacy issues, and ethical concerns.

4 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?