Introduction to Structured Light Scanning

This module is currently in the planning stages for an early 2025 release.

Structured light scanning (SLS) is a 3D scanning technology that projects a series of light patterns onto an object and captures the resulting distortions with cameras. By analyzing these distortions, the scanner can create a detailed 3D model of the object’s surface. This method is known for its high accuracy and resolution, making it ideal for capturing fine details and complex geometries. Structured light scanning is a powerful technology in 3D scanning, offering high accuracy and detail for a wide range of applications. Products from companies like Artec, Shining 3D, and GOM provide versatile and reliable solutions for industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare and entertainment. By leveraging these advanced tools, professionals can achieve precise and efficient results, enhancing the quality and efficiency of their work.

How do Structured Light Scanners Work?

Structured Light Scanners (SLS) work by projecting a series of structured light patterns—such as grids or stripes—onto an object. Cameras then capture how these patterns distort when projected on the object’s surface. The distortions are analyzed to reconstruct the geometry of the object in three dimensions.

• Projection of Light Patterns: A structured light scanner projects a known pattern (like stripes or grids) onto the object. These patterns are often encoded with specific sequences to help distinguish different parts of the projection.
• Capture of Distortions: Cameras positioned at an angle relative to the projector capture the light pattern as it deforms over the surface of the object. These distortions reveal the shape and contours of the object.
• Triangulation: The scanner calculates the 3D positions of points on the object using triangulation. By knowing the exact positions of the projector and camera(s), the system determines the distance and orientation of the object’s surface relative to the scanner.
• Processing and Reconstruction: The data captured from the light distortions is processed using software to generate a detailed 3D model. This includes identifying corresponding points in multiple images and converting them into a 3D mesh or point cloud.

Use Cases

Structured light scanning has a broad range of applications, particularly in industries requiring high precision and detail.

• Manufacturing and Quality Control: It is used to inspect and reverse engineer components, ensuring they meet design specifications and tolerances.
• Healthcare: In dentistry and prosthetics, structured light scanners create accurate models of teeth and limbs for custom fittings.
• Cultural Heritage: Museums use this technology to digitize artifacts for preservation and virtual displays.
• Animation and Visual Effects: In the entertainment industry, it helps create detailed models of characters, props, and environments for films and video games.

Notable Products

There are several notable products in use throughout the 3d scanning industry with a few widely used which are highly effective and cost efficient.

• Artec Eva: This handheld scanner is renowned for its high accuracy and speed, making it ideal for capturing medium-sized objects such as automotive parts, sculptures, and people.
• Artec Space Spider: This scanner excels in capturing small objects and intricate details with exceptional accuracy, often used in reverse engineering, quality control, and healthcare.
• Artec Leo: The Artec Leo is a high-precision, handheld 3D scanner known for its wireless operation, built-in touchscreen, and real-time data processing capabilities, making it ideal for capturing intricate details of objects and environments in various applications.

Advantages of Structured Light Scanning

• High Resolution and Accuracy: Structured light scanners can capture fine details with high precision, making them suitable for applications requiring exact measurements.
• Non-Contact and Safe: The scanning process is non-invasive, ensuring the safety of delicate objects.
• Speed: These scanners can quickly capture data, significantly reducing the time needed for manual measurements and modeling.

Disadvantages of Structured Light Scanning

• Surface Properties: Struggles with reflective and transparent surfaces.
• Lighting Conditions: Requires controlled lighting; sensitive to ambient light.
• Scan Volume Limitations: Less suitable for very large objects or environments.
• Complexity of Use: Setup, calibration, and operation require expertise.
• Data Processing: Computationally intensive; large file sizes.
• Cost: High initial investment and ongoing maintenance expenses.
• Speed vs. Detail Trade-Off: High detail can slow down the scanning process.

Tutorial: SLS Scanning with Artec Leo & Spider

Please Note:  Tutorials on SLS scanning will be released early 2025.  Artec has a new line of products and updates and there are other scanners the masterclass will cover.  This module will cover using the Artec Leo and Artec Studio involving setting up the scanner, capturing the object through thorough scanning, transferring the data to a computer, and processing it in Artec Studio to create a detailed 3D model. The process includes calibration, scanning, data transfer, alignment, cleaning, optimizing, and exporting the final model. This workflow ensures high-quality 3D scans ready for various applications.