Sometimes 3D scanning’s not as easy as it might initially seem, take for instance the below part. This was handed to our 3D scanning dept recently. The customer required the part to be 3D scanned, and the 3D file generated at an accuracy 0.05mm.
The dimensions of this part were 260mm in length x 20mm Diameter. The first challenging surface to 3D scan is the spiral feature, as it’s an identical pattern almost 90% along the entire length of the part, this would be a difficult feature to 3D scan, to successfully 3D scan an object the part normally requires different features to align, the most simple way to overcome this, is to add more unique features.
No need to over-complicate this requirement, blu tack spots sufficed:
This is enough to differentiate the surface, as you can see the pitch between each blu tack spot is different, this was enough for the scanner to establish the datum and the length of the feature.
Next, pick the scanner: The 3D scanner used for this project was the EinScan Pro HD 3D Scanner, this scanner is perfect for handheld scanning of large objects, plus small accurate objects like this.
The next challenge was due to the length of this part, the part could not be placed flat on the turntable as it’s to long, and if placed upright the part would be to tall for the scanner to pick up the coded markers plus the object on the turntable, so the only option is to scan the shaft flat and then rotate it manually.
Scan tip: the Dodecahedron parts are added within the scanned area as objects easy to pick up, with their unique shape they are a great reference to scan in the background, you can download them here and they can be 3D printed very cost effectively with SLS 3D printing available at https://www.cammpro.com.au/
So, the first scan looks like this:
Then all unwanted features are deleted:
Then rotate the part and go again, this was completed 3 times. The intelligent software that comes with Einscan range of 3D scanners, stitches the scanned surfaces together to make a perfect 360° 3D object.
The blu tack spots were then deleted and re-filled within the Einscan software.
The file was then imported into Geomagics 3D software as an STL file, then converted to a Solid model file and exported as a STEP file.
Accurate to 0.05mm
For any 3D scanning or 3D scan advise contact https://www.cammpro.com.au/
Or to see the range of 3D scanners click here: https://www.cammpro.com.au/products/3d-scanners/