The world of 3D scanning keeps on growing by leaps and bounds. The equipment is getting more compact and easier to use as well as transport. The software is fine tuned to the last fractal.
Several companies have demonstrated that they can produce awesome 3D scans using equipment that is even more steps advanced than what came out last year alone. During the January 2015 Consumer Electronics Show held in Las Vegas, Nevada, the company Artec Group showcased their 3D scanning technology with the Shapify that is the state of the art in 3D scanning. It can do a complete scan of an object or person or thing down to the last detail. Just astonishing resolution and detailing to the point they can 3D print right on the spot and dazzle onlookers.
The ability of technology like this that is trimmed down from earlier versions of big 3D scanners shows that the field is being fine tuned to the point of easier operation, lower costs, and those lower costs make it more affordable for the home and small business user. Some low cost scanning tools are modified webcam like devices that cost around $100 or so but they don’t have the power of the kind of thing that their Shapify that goes for around $20k can do.
Entertainment isn’t the only area of where 3D scanning is making major gains. Every area of society seems to be benefiting from 3D scanning and printing. From major industrial parts on down to household items and tools. Being able to scan rare items for posterity such as what is going on with paleontology, it’s said the famed Louise Leaky of the famous Leaky family, is using 3D scanning to preserver fossils in case they get damaged or stolen. Same is being done with rare artifacts like ancient swords, machines, armor, and tools. Scientists and researchers can look at the 3D scans and still be able to glean important data from them. Clothing and medical industries are booming with 3D technology. Making new prostheses that fit perfectly or braces and other medical apparatus.
Technicians and engineers of high end performance vehicles like Formula 1 and other race cars, planes, motorcycles and just regular auto mobiles can use 3D scanning to remarkable results. Making custom parts on the spot, replacing valuable parts and tools instead of waiting for them to be shipped by mail if they’re in stock. Helmets and protective gear can be downloaded and printed on the spot as well as using the scanning to do diagnostics.
All these applications of 3D scanning are growing because of the changes for the better in the basic technologies and tools. Equipment gets more compact, cost effective, and portable. Software gets more user friendly and materials to print are diverse and mostly cheap.
So it looks like the world of 3D scanning is only going to improve and everyone will benefit.
Keep your eyes sharp for the further developments that 3D scanning is bringing to the world at large.
Image credit: cubify.com