3D Scanning
Getting Started
3D Printing Tech provides high-precision 3D scanning services for engineering, design, artistic, restoration, replication, inspection, and other projects. Using Structured-Light scanning technology, we get the job done within budget, on time, and to the level of accuracy (0.05-0.3mm) required. The resulting file is a point-cloud converted to a mesh (STL/OBJ) which can be 3D printed, or remodeled to a STEP or similar editable CAD format if modifications are required.
Four Easy Steps
Assess Requirements
During this stage you can send us pictures of your object(s) or describe them to us if you do not have pictures.
You are welcome to bring your part to our shop for an assessment as well. We will review the physical characteristics of your object along with your intended use of the resulting digital asset, and verify that our tech is a fit for your needs.
Scanning
Based in Atlanta, we prefer to scan in our facility so that we can control and optimize the lighting and conditions during the scan to produce the best results possible.
Customers can ship their object(s) to us or drop them off if they are local. In some cases we scan on-site if the object is not movable. The scanning portion of a project typically takes 3 to 6 hours.
File Prep
Once the scan is complete, the point cloud data gets converted to a mesh file (STL, OBJ), which is a usable model. A mesh file can be used to take dimensions, 3D print, model around, compare geometries, etc, but it is not a fully editable CAD model just yet.
CAD Remodel
If reverse engineering and/or edits are needed to be made the file, it will need to be converted from a mesh file to a CAD model first.
Converting from mesh to CAD typically involves re-modeling the file in software utilizing the scanned mesh file as a reference for measurements, curvatures, etc. It is best to define this step as necessary or not in the initial scope of work.
Four Easy Steps
1. Assess Requirements
During this stage you can send us pictures of your object(s) or describe them to us if you do not have pictures.
You are welcome to bring your part to our shop for an assessment as well. We will review the physical characteristics of your object along with your intended use of the resulting digital asset, and verify that our tech is a fit for your needs.undefined
2. Scan Object
Based in Atlanta, we prefer to scan in our facility so that we can control and optimize the lighting and conditions during the scan to produce the best results possible.
Customers can ship their object(s) to us or drop them off if they are local. In some cases we scan on-site if the object is not movable. The scanning portion of a project typically takes 3 to 6 hours.
3. File Preparation
Once the scan is complete, the point cloud data gets converted to a mesh file (STL, OBJ), which is a usable model. A mesh file can be used to take dimensions, 3D print, model around, compare geometries, etc, but it is not a fully editable CAD model just yet.
4. Remodeling to CAD
If reverse engineering and/or edits are needed to be made the file, it will need to be converted from a mesh file to a CAD model first.
Converting from mesh to CAD typically involves re-modeling the file in software utilizing the scanned mesh file as a reference for measurements, curvatures, etc.
It is best to define this step as necessary or not in the initial scope of work.
