3d Scanner: The Real-World Analysis Tool
The emerging demand for understanding the real-world scenario has led to the adoption of 3D scanners. Through the 3D scanning technology, these devices allow the creation of high-precision 3D models of the existing objects. 3D scanners take multiple snapshots of an object and then assemble them to develop the exact copy in a three-dimensional format.
Thus, 3D scanning helps in the measurement of finer details and is in high demand for inspection of contoured surfaces and complicated geometries requiring huge amounts of data for accurate description. Such precise measurements are almost impossible by utilizing traditional measurement methods. The growing demand of these scanners across various end-use applications is augmenting the 3D scanner market growth.
Archeology and Heritage
3D scanning technologies have gained wide popularity in heritage conservation. The emerging concept of digital preservation where 3D scanning is utilized by combining digital film and photography for building a complete image of a structure is propelling the market growth in this segment. The technology assists archeologists to view a site and digitally construct so as to have a look of the ancient structure as it would have been hundreds or thousands of years ago. Several organizations round the world are making use of 3D laser scanning for site survey in various parts of the world. The use of digital scans for restoration of buildings is quite common where 3D scanning along with modeling, and analysis is done for structures that are still standing. The analysis is then used for determining the structural and physical relationships to the current absent elements. 3D scanning helps in checking the structural and physical conditions and assists in analyzing the possible effects of weather, pollution, or footfall. This has further helped conservationists to gather relevant measures in place and contribute to the development of replicas of places or items through the digital information. As part of the restoration process, these replicas can be viewed in place of an original artifact or set within a structure. In addition, designing of new and sustainable buildings is also possible using 3D scanners.
3D Scanners for Crime Scene Investigation
3D scanning is gaining grounds in forensics owing to the portability, flexibility, and accuracy of the advanced 3D scanners. Through technological innovations, portable scanners are capable of providing detailed analysis of indoors and outdoors. It has made the collection of forensic data easier. The technology in comparison to the traditional methods are able to collect data in minutes. The findings and conclusions that are based on 3D scanned information are reliable and presented in court in the form of evidence, additionally, they are used by the insurance companies as well.
3D laser scanners are becoming investigative tools and can be found in various areas of public health and justice. They are also used for blood stain pattern analysis, reconstruction of a shooting incident, traffic collision, and other related crime scene collection and reconstruction purposes.
FARO Technologies, Inc. manufactures 3D scanners for forensic applications. The company’s 3D laser scanners are capable of providing critical evidences by capturing the entire scene. The products use laser scanning for capturing millions of data points known as 3D point cloud. This point cloud offers an accurate 3D representation of the proofs such as skid marks, vehicle positions or charring patterns and many more. Products include FocusS 350/350 Plus for long-range measurements ranging up to 350 meters, FocusS 150/150 Plus for measuring mid-range up to 150 meters, and FocusS 70 for short-range measurements up to 70 meters. The scanners are ultraportable.
3D Scanners Contribution to the Healthcare Industry
The medical industry is highly benefitted by the integration of 3D scanning technology for carrying out various operations within the healthcare facility. The 3D scanners market growth is further supported by the growing trend of personalized solutions in the industry. These scanners have been utilized for biomedical research and patient-care applications. The speed and accuracy, in addition to the safety aspects of 3D scanners are contributing to its acceptance in the medical field. The scanners, available in the form of stationary or portable/handheld devices are capable of providing a quick complete body scan. The obtained data can be utilized for carrying out research or monitoring changes in body measurement, before and after a medical procedure. Through 3D scanning technology, it is now possible to make customized healthcare solutions like implants, prostheses, and personalized medical equipment faster. The required information can be easily captured by a 3D scanner and is processed by a specialized 3D software. The image with exact specifications is sent for manufacturing.
Significant collaborations among the companies for increasing patient-care via 3D scanning is fueling the market growth. In 2017, the German healthcare company, Otto Bock HealthCare GmbH entered into a partnership with Creaform, the manufacturer of portable 3D measurement solutions. The signing of the original equipment manufacturing agreement among the two companies is geared to utilize Creaform HCP 3D scanner and become a part of the Otto Bock’s 3D Design system. The design system is further poised to gain benefit through the integration of the Creaform HCP 3D scanner for delivering faster and accurate scans. In addition, the scanner will enable the non-contact scanning of the patient limbs and will be able to replace messy and difficult plaster castings, thus, contributing to enhancing patient comfort. The high scanning speed will further help in ensuring shorter consultation times and minimizing longer waiting time of patients, hence, it will also encourage the treatment of a greater number of patients in a day.
3D Scanners Gaining Significance in the Education Sector
3D scanners have started gaining attention in the area of education. Through the use of sculpting clay or similar medium, it is possible for students with minimum or no 3D CAD modelling skills to create and print completely unique 3D models that are near unachievable for producing through software only. The introduction of 3D scanning in education is aimed towards bringing an up-to-date model of learning that are capable of enhancing the knowledge and skills of the students of the modern era.
