The global 3D scanning industry was estimated to be worth a whopping $5.4 billion in 2020. Experts believe this growth will continue. By 2025, the industry could be worth $8 billion!

The technological development of laser scanning has accelerated over the past decade. Where scanners used to be limited to determining distances between two points, they can now compile accurate 3D representations of any object, person, or location.

Many people are unaware of quite how advanced 3D laser scanning has become recently.

But how does this technology benefit us? What does the future have in store for 3D scanner technology? What are some surprising facts about 3D scanning? To discover the answers to these questions and more, keep on reading!

 

1. Handheld Scanners Are Here

We often think of 3D laser scanning as being clunky technology. But the EinScan HX 3D laser scanner would prove otherwise. This device fits in one hand and only weighs 710g!

Functionality isn’t limited because of the size of this device, either. It’s built with a dual-LED light and laser. The LED light provides rapid scanning, while the laser offers accuracy and high performance.

Both contribute to the high accuracy of the device on dark or reflective surfaces. Not to mention that scans are high-resolution and in color due to the built-in color camera.

The transportability of this design makes it perfect for any environment or project where using larger equipment would prove challenging. For example, shipbuilding, remote research projects, and education.

 

2. Smartphones are the Future

Once upon a time, cell phones could only be used for making phone calls, sending text messages, and playing Snake. Since the mid-90s, smartphones have become portable computers. And now it seems that smartphones might become capable of 3D laser scanning.

Caltech scientists have developed a tiny, 1mm thick laser chip.

This chip can detect reflected light to measure the distance and size of an object. Such small technology could easily be integrated into a smartphone. Assuming there is demand for such a function.

Although this technology is undoubtedly impressive, it’s unlikely to replace the functionality of a handheld 3D scanner.

 

3. They Provide Medical Solutions

3D laser scanning within the medical industry isn’t new, but it is improving. Laser scans offer numerous benefits over more traditional scans and procedures.

Laser scanning can be:

  • Faster
  • Harmless
  • Portable
  • Cheaper

These benefits lead to a quicker diagnosis. Scans can also be sent for remote pathology whenever an issue is proving too difficult for local professionals to diagnose.

But the benefits don’t end with diagnosis. Patients can receive casts and prosthetics that have been designed by scanning their bodies. Reducing the risk of human error improves comfort by allowing for more accurate designs.

Choosing the right scanner can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.

 

4. Laser Scanners Help Solve Crimes

Forensic teams used to be limited to taking photographs and using a measuring tape to map out a crime scene. Nowadays, 3D laser scanning can collect data faster, safer, and more reliably. There’s less room for human error, including memory lapses.  

Computer-generated imaging allows further inspection of various points of interest, such as the distance between bullet holes or the range of blood splatter. Scans can better understand witness perspectives and create simulations of reported elements for testing.

When the case goes to court, the judge and jury can see virtual reconstructions of the scene. This can be useful for challenging eye-witness testimony or the reliability of a witness’s statements.

 

5. Education and Entertainment

3D scanner technology allows us to create accurate reconstructions of ancient structures, technology, clothing, and weaponry. We can even use scans to generate reconstructions of a deceased person’s face.

One incredible example of this technology involves the Sphinx of Egypt. Scanning the structure has revealed that the ancient monument contains a series of secret passages and chambers. Something we wouldn’t know without 3d scanning technology.  

Researchers have applied the same technology to the pyramids, Gobekli Tepe, and many other ancient sites to better understand these structures without damaging them.

Scans can be used to create virtual reconstructions for both educational and entertainment purposes.

 

6. Home Scanners and Printers Could Be the Future

The possibilities are endless for future 3D laser scanning technology. Many experts in the industry believe that 3D scanners and printers will become as commonplace as computers and printers.

Imagine a world where you buy the blueprints for a product and print it off in your own home. No waiting for items to arrive or paying postage. You would have instant access to toys, furniture, and tools.  

An EinScan 3D scanner could allow people to scan items, people, and parts of their homes. Scans could be sent to experts to save time and money. The future might involve sending scans to GPs or interior designers.

As the technology continues to develop, security systems might use laser scans to create digital reconstructions of criminals. Darkness and masks can limit the use of cameras. But these same obstacles wouldn’t be an issue for laser scans.

 

Need 3D Laser Scanning Technology?

3D scanners are more advanced and accessible than ever. We use them to manufacture products, solve crimes, and diagnose illnesses. 3D laser scanning can help us reconstruct ancient structures and weapons as well!

Go3DPro offers a wide range of 3D scanning and printing technology. If you have any questions, click here to contact us today!