21 June, 2025
All You Need To Know About 3D Scanning
Over the past few years, 3D scanning has become increasingly popular because it creates digital 3D models of real-world objects or environments. This is a great process of creating high-precision 3D models of real-world objects. It typically uses light or lasers to scan the surface of an object and collect its shape and size. This scanned information is later used to make a computer model that looks just like the original product. The engineering, healthcare, movies, and construction industries use these models for their products or items.
This simple guide will help you understand the basics of 3D scanning, including its definition, types, features, benefits, and the best 3D scanner companies.
Before diving into 3D scanning, it’s essential to understand it. Here’s clear information on 3D scanning.
3D scanning is a method or process that captures the shape and size of a real-world object and turns it into a digital 3D model. It typically works by using tools, including lasers, cameras, and light sensors, to scan real-world objects and collect information about their surface. This scanned data is then used to build a computer-based image or model that users can view, edit, or even print using a 3D printer.
Most 3D scanners work by using tools, including lasers or lights, on the objects and later measuring how that light reflects. The scanner calculates the real-world objects’ shape by using the time taken for the light to return, or the angles of the reflections. This is later turned into a digital 3D model. This digital image of a model can be used in design software, printed using a 3D printer, and shared with others.
Here’s a breakdown of the types of 3D scanners.
One of the most significant 3D scanners is a laser scanner. These scanners work by using laser beams to scan real-world objects. These are widely used in fields that require high detail, like car design or manufacturing. In addition, these laser scanners are called industrial laser scanners or high-precision 3D scanners due to their capability to scan objects in fields that require high detail, like car design or manufacturing.
Photogrammetry scanners are a type of 3D scanner that work by taking many photos of the object from different angles and using software to stitch them into a 3D model. This scanner is a good choice for those who need an affordable scanner.
These scanners work by using light patterns to scan the surface. They typically record changing patterns on the object’s surface and build the 3D model from that.
Large-scale 3D scanners are the most popular scanners that the construction and architecture industries mostly use. These scanners are widely used to scan big real-world objects like buildings, bridges, or statues.
These are also excellent machines, often used in quality control. These scanners work by touching the object physically and recording points in 3D space. Several people consider taking these machines because they are common in various industrial settings.
Below are the most significant features of 3D scanning.
3D scanning provides businesses with exact digital copies of objects. Most 3D scanners are common in industries because they measure details as small as a hair. These scanners take a minimum time to scan a whole object.
3D scanners are the different types, some of them are small and easy to carry, so they can be used anywhere that suits users’ interests.
Data format is another key feature of 3D scanning. Scanning files can be saved in different formats, like STL, OBJ, or PLY.
Several 3D scanners don’t require touching the object, which helps when you scan fragile items.
Here are the popular benefits of 3D scanning.
3D scanners are much faster than measuring objects by hand, which makes them a top choice for industries.
Since the 3D scanning process is done by a variety of scanners, the chances of errors are very low compared to manual work.
A variety of scanners are used in different industries. Engineers and designers can use 3D scanners to produce digital objects or models.
3D scanning is helpful in many fields because it is used in healthcare for scanning body parts, construction for planning, museums for preservation, and films for CGI effects.
Here are the best 3D laser scanning services.
GoMeasure3D is a global leader in 3D laser scanning services. It offers advanced 3D scanning solutions for many industries, including manufacturing, engineering, and design. This company specializes in portable 3D scanners and custom scanning services for those who need high precision.
Arrival 3D is another significant provider of 3D laser scanning services. This company delivers nationwide 3D laser scanning services in the U.S. They use professional-grade scanning equipment to provide scanning services. It offers a comprehensive range of solutions for various industries, including construction, architecture, and design.
3D Engineering Solutions delivers a range of 3D scanning solutions, such as industrial-grade 3D scanning, reverse engineering, and inspection services. This company ensures high accuracy and reliability by using metrology-grade CMM and laser scanners.
CADimensions is also a significant company for 3D scanning solutions. This company delivers 3D scanning, design, and printing services, all of which serve the engineering, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
Laser Design, Inc. provides high-precision 3D laser scanning and inspection services for various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical.
3D scanning is an ideal and powerful tool that helps industries turn their real-world objects or things into digital models quickly and accurately. Different types of 3D scanners provide many 3D solutions to many industries, including manufacturing, construction, and healthcare, among others.
To learn more about 3D scanning, make a search today.
Sources:
GoMeasure3D – A Company for 3D scanning services
