3D Laser Scanners
A 3D scanner is a device that analyzes a real-world object or environment to collect data on its shape and possibly color. The collected data can then be used to construct digital, three dimensional models that are used in a wide variety of applications. These devices are used extensively by industry in the production of such things as movies and video games. Other applications include computer vision and documentation of cultural artifacts.
The purpose of a 3D scanner is usually to create a set of three-dimensional points describing the outlines or surface features of an object. These points can then be used to extrapolate the shape of the subject (a process that receives the expert’s term denominated as reconstruction). This process of converting this point cloud into a polygonal 3D model, called reconstruction involves finding and connecting adjacent points in order to create a continuous surface. Many algorithms are available for this purpose. If color information is collected at each point, then the colors on the surface of the subject can also be determined.
You can find in the market two different types of 3D scanners.
- Contact 3D Scanners.
- Non contact 3D Scanners.
These non-contact 3D scanners can be further divided into two main categories:
- Active scanners
- Passive scanners.
Laser scanning describes a method where a surface is sampled or scanned using laser technology. As ySeveral areas of application exist that mainly differ in the power of the lasers that are used, and in the results of the scanning process. Lasers with low power are used when the scanned surface doesn’t have to be influenced, e.g. when it has to be digitized. Confocal or 3D laser scanning are methods to get information about the scanned surface.
Depending on the power of the laser, its influence on a working piece differs: lower power values are used for laser engraving, where material is partially removed by the laser. With higher powers the material becomes fluid and laser welding can be realized, or if the power is high enough to remove the material completely, then laser cutting can be performed.
