CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine)
Best Practices for Using 3D Scanners
3D scanning technology has revolutionized industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and design, offering precise digital replicas of physical objects. However, achieving high-quality scans requires proper preparation and technique. This guide outlines the best practices for using 3D scanners, including preparation, scanning techniques, post-processing, and troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re using a handheld 3D scanner or a desktop 3D scanner, these tips will help you get the best results.
Preparing Your Object for Scanning
Proper preparation is essential to ensure accurate scans. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
1. Clean the Object:
Dust, dirt, or reflective surfaces can interfere with a 3D scanner’s ability to capture details. Clean the object thoroughly and ensure it’s dry before scanning. For glossy or transparent objects, it may be necessary to apply a matte spray to reduce reflections.
2. Stabilize the Object:
For handheld 3D scanners, make sure the object is stable and won’t move during scanning. If using a desktop 3D scanner, securely mount the object on the scanning platform to prevent shifts.
3. Lighting and Environment:
Avoid scanning in direct sunlight or under inconsistent lighting conditions, as these can affect scanner accuracy. For best results, work in a controlled environment with diffuse, even lighting.
4. Markers for Reference:
Many handheld 3D scanners require reference markers to track movement and align scans. Place these markers strategically on or around the object to ensure consistent alignment. If using a KEYENCE Handheld 3D Scanner, these markers are not necessary, and this step can be skipped.
Optimal Scanning Techniques
Understanding how to use 3D scanners effectively is crucial for capturing accurate data. Let’s explore techniques for both handheld and desktop 3D scanners:
Handheld 3D Scanner Techniques
With the KEYENCE WM-6000, you can see the scanning progress directly on the handheld 3D scanner.
1. Maintain a Steady Distance:
Keep the scanner at a consistent distance from the object. Moving too close or too far can result in uneven data capture or loss of detail.
2. Use a Smooth, Controlled Motion:
Move the scanner in smooth, overlapping passes to ensure complete coverage. Avoid jerky or rapid movements, as these can cause errors in the scan.
3. Scan from Multiple Angles:
To capture complex shapes and hidden details, scan the object from various angles. Rotate around the object, ensuring all sides are covered.
4. Monitor the Software in Real-Time:
Most handheld 3D scanners display real-time feedback in their software. Watch for areas that may need additional passes to fill gaps or improve accuracy.
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Desktop 3D Scanner Techniques
1. Calibrate the Scanner:
Before scanning, calibrate your desktop 3D scanner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper calibration ensures the scanner captures accurate dimensions.
2. Optimize Scan Settings:
Adjust resolution, exposure, and other settings based on the object’s size and material. Higher resolution scans take longer but capture finer details.
3. Position the Object Strategically:
Place the object on the turntable (if available) to allow for automated rotation and scanning. For irregularly shaped items, scan in multiple positions to capture all details.
4. Avoid Obstructions:
Ensure nothing blocks the scanner’s view of the object. Stray items or hands in the scanning area can disrupt the process.
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Post-Processing and Data Clean-Up
Once you’ve captured your scans, post-processing is crucial to turn raw data into a usable 3D model. Follow these steps:
1. Align and Merge Scans:
If your object was scanned in multiple parts, use the scanner’s software to align and merge the data. Many programs offer automated alignment, but manual adjustments may be needed for precision.
KEYENCE’s proprietary software allows you to easily select the data points to remove in order to achieve a clean scan of the object of interest.
2. Remove Noise and Artifacts:
Clean up unwanted data, such as stray points or overlapping surfaces, using built-in editing tools.
3. Fill Holes:
Some areas may be incomplete due to shadows or obstructions during scanning. Use software tools to fill holes and create a watertight model.
4. Smooth and Simplify:
Depending on your project’s needs, you can smooth out rough areas or simplify the mesh to reduce file size while retaining important details.
5. Export in the Right Format:
Save your 3D model in a format suitable for its intended use. Common formats include STL for 3D printing and OBJ or FBX for design and visualization.
Troubleshooting Common 3D Scanning Issues
Even with the best practices for 3D scanners, you may encounter challenges. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
1. Incomplete Scans:
- Cause: Shadows, difficult-to-reach areas, or reflective surfaces.
- Solution: Rescan from additional angles, apply a matte spray, or adjust lighting.
2. Poor Alignment:
- Cause: Misplaced reference markers or inconsistent movement.
- Solution: Reapply markers evenly or re-scan using smoother motions.
3. Scanner Calibration Errors:
- Cause: Improper setup or environmental factors.
- Solution: Recalibrate the scanner and ensure a stable, well-lit environment.
4. Low-Quality Output:
- Cause: Low resolution or incorrect settings.
- Solution: Increase resolution and fine-tune scan settings based on the object’s characteristics.
5. Software Crashes or Freezes:
- Cause: High data loads or compatibility issues.
- Solution: Optimize your computer’s performance, reduce scan resolution, or update the software.
Once scanned, KEYENCE’s software allows you to create measurements directly on the scan, while also creating an interactive cross-section to analyze.
Once you have a finished scan, you can choose to output the data with the intention of reverse engineering or reconstructing the scan, or, depending on the tool, take measurements to further analyze the data collected.
Mastering how to use 3D scanners involves a combination of preparation, technique, and post-processing. By following these best practices for 3D scanners, you can achieve accurate, high-quality scans for a variety of applications. Whether using a handheld 3D scanner for fieldwork or a desktop 3D scanner in a studio, attention to detail and proper handling are key to success. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to troubleshoot common issues and create reliable 3D models for any project.
KEYENCE’s 3D Scanner Options to Meet Your Needs:
Our options include the KEYENCE WM-6000 Handheld 3D Laser Scanner and CMM and our Desktop 3D Scanner, the KEYENCE VL Series.
Portability: The WM-6000 handheld scanner probe works in conjunction with a lightweight camera head unit to track the probe as it moves in the measurement area. This set-up allows the system to go wherever necessary, so you can scan whatever is needed. The KEYENCE VL Series is a desktop scanner that is not meant to be extremely portable, though it can be moved around occasionally if needed.
Accuracy: The KEYENCE VL Series boasts much tighter accuracy than the KEYENCE WM, as it scans over a much smaller area than the WM Series. While the VL can scan parts up to 3 ft, the WM can scan parts up to 80 ft, so the correct solution for a scanner would depend on accuracy and size needs.
Ease-of-Use: The WM-6000 and the VL-700 both have their own proprietary software that can be used to take measurements, import CAD models for a CAD overlay, or export for easy reverse engineering. Anyone can learn to become a user, and the software allows users to clean scanned data in seconds.
You can learn more about the WM-6000 here and the VL Series here.
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