Consumer Grade 3D Scanning

A place to discuss non-Moho software for use in animation. Video editors, audio editors, 3D modelers, etc.

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Bones3D
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Joined: Tue Jun 13, 2006 3:19 pm
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Consumer Grade 3D Scanning

Post by Bones3D »

A few days ago, I came across a new device called the NextEngine 3D Scanner that I'm now actually considering buying for use in my own work.

The device is a desktop-based unit capable of scanning both the geometry and texture of any 3D object up to 13" tall by 11" in diameter and works by externally sweeping a set of lasers radially around the object using a motorized turntable. The scanner itself is approximately the same size as your typical external hard drive and connects to any PC running Windows XP or greater through USB.

Features include variable scanning resolution and the ability to scan the same object at different orientations to fill in gaps and other inconsistencies in the geometry by marking relative points on the scanned geometry.

The basic setup costs approximately $2,500 and can be upgraded for CAD specific applications.

There's also a video demonstration of the unit with former TechTV host, Leo LaPorte, that covers some of the basics of what the scanner does.

Overall, it looks like an amazing value and could eventually lead to things like 3D scanning services for the common man.
8==8 Bones 8==8
human
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Joined: Tue Jan 02, 2007 7:53 pm

Post by human »

If you turn yourself into a nano-service bureau, who knows, some of us might need your help for scanning some action figure.

Hey, you could call yourself our action figure hero.
Bones3D
Posts: 217
Joined: Tue Jun 13, 2006 3:19 pm
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Post by Bones3D »

It gets better... there are consumer level 3D printers due out later this year for just under $5,000 that'll output objects up to 5 cubic inches.

Of course, if you have $50,000 on hand right now, you could pull off full-color, 1:1 scale 3D object duplication using one of these.

In the meanwhile, there are already several untapped markets for consumer level 3D scanning, such as object generation for virtual worlds like Second Life, that have functioning, real-world economies. It could also be applied to more down-to-earth uses, such as prop generation for use in apps that can import 3D object into scenes, like Anime Studio does.
8==8 Bones 8==8
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