There are devices that can take an object and build a digital version of it in real time. This might sound interesting yet pointless at first, but it actually has furthered many industries in unique ways. 3D scanning, coupled with 3D modeling, has put many new ideas in the hands of those in technology industries.
Game developers are the first to make good use of 3D scanning. Game developers will often spend weeks or months modeling objects in software programs. By scanning a real object and then using that as a base to work with, modeling agents have saved weeks of their time to be spent on other projects. Translating sculpted models into CAD programs is now a valuable skill.
3D printing goes hand in hand with 3D scanning. If you were to have a 3D model in digital form, special printers could print out an actual model of it in perfect form. The printer is specially designed to create the object with a material such as plastic or derivatives of plastic. For when needing a physical model, whether for art or for business uses, 3D printing has become the staple.
Education is another industry that has seen use in the 3D scanning technologies. Archaeology in particular is a proponent of 3D scanning, as scientists are able to upload new visuals of uncovered objects and have them sent to scientists across the world in a matter of a day. It’s easier than ever before to share a discovery, in full detail, with colleagues or students.
Dentists like to use 3D modeling software and scanners in order to provide a quicker service to their patients. A 3D scanner in this case can quickly scan the inside of the mouth, so that a mold for a retainer or dentures can be created. 3D scanning is also helpful to find problems, or to have as reference. With new software programs, dentists can also project how their actions can affect the teeth and gum of patients.
Architects love 3D modeling, since they can take a real-world model and have a digital version sent to a client in a matter of hours if tweaking is needed. Digital architecture models are also good to have around for reference when maintenance personnel need to fix a particular area of the building. 3D scanning of large models or unusually tall models can take longer, if it’s possible at all.
Final Thoughts
3D scanning has stumbled upon an exciting time. We are finally making advances in greatly reducing the time necessary required to make a movie graphic, develop a video game, or even pitch a building design. As 3D scanning technology grows, so too will all the industries that it has directly affected through it’s convenience.
Learn more on 3d scanning and 3d scanner.
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This post was written by Chris Channing on March 16, 2010










