Over the years, 3D scanning has made some astounding advances. This includes the production of auto parts, medical devices, houses, and even functional rockets. Although many would prefer to focus on the final product, it is important to consider what is required to get there.
3D scans involve time-consuming processing, sorting, and modification. Fortunately, the use of artificial intelligence is streamlining image cleaning to the benefit of OEM and business owners alike.
Read on to find out how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the way we use 3D scanning software.
The 3D Scanning Process
3D scanners come in different shapes and sizes.
Photogrammetry takes images from different angles and uses triangulation to determine where different points lie in a 3D world. TOF (time of flight) scanners measure the amount of time it takes for a beam of light to reflect from the surface of the object.
The most common type, and the one we will discuss today, is laser scanning.
Data Acquisition
Laser scanning technology provides the most accurate 3D scans. This is due to its use of techniques found in both photogrammetry and TOF scanners. Lasers move over the surface of an object, while cameras triangulate the exact point of contact and turn the data into a 3D representation.
Point Cloud
The data collected from the cameras is compiled into what is called a “point cloud.” The point cloud is composed of millions of different data modules. Depending on the scanner’s capabilities, point data will include color, texture, and intricate surface details.
Cleaning
After collecting all the data the points are integrated to create a clear 3D image. This requires manually sorting through the data and removing undesired points. Depending on the complexity of the image this takes anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
CAD for Reverse Engineering
The completed image is then compared to the designer’s CAD (computer-aided design) data. The result of this is a visual report utilizing color to point out any differences between the 3D scans and the CAD data.
Once any additional corrections are made, the cloud point data is converted to a 3D CAD model. This is then utilized to reverse engineer the original product.
Refining Cleaning With AI
A lot of time and manpower is wasted on manual cleaning. Rather than going through all the data manually, innovative engineers have developed 3D scanning software that utilizes artificial intelligence to process the point cloud.
Computers work about 10 million times faster than the human brain. To put this into perspective, a point cloud that takes a human one hour to clean would take a computer .00036 seconds. This is less than the time it takes to blink an eye.
Artificial intelligence differs from a typical computer due to its ability to learn and adapt. So, the actual time it takes artificial intelligence to clean a point cloud will depend on external input parameters, data size, and previous experience.
AI Predictions in 3D Scanning Software
Artificial intelligence has the potential to accomplish much more than image cleaning.
One huge advantage is the ability to alter the original scan through the incorporation of additional data. Let us say, for example, a manufacturer wants to redesign an engine piston to increase vehicle efficiency. They provide the AI with all the data you have on current parameters, materials used, and any other relevant information.
A normal redesign involving a team of engineers would prove very costly to the OEM. By utilizing 3D scanning software with artificial intelligence, the manufacturer not only has access to hundreds or even thousands of design variations but at a much lower price point.
AI also allows for the analysis and compilation of multiple 3D scans from different objects. This is particularly useful in the medical industry. It gives doctors and surgeons the ability to create custom braces, casts, and internal hardware, such as knee replacements.
3D scanning software with artificial intelligence clearly has the potential to defy the boundaries of possibility across multiple industries.
3D Scanners to Get You Started
With so many different scanners on the market, it might be intimidating to find one that works for you.
EinScan Pro HD:
This 3D scanner provides a professional-grade experience from the palm of your hand. The EinScan Pro HD produces high-resolution images that are ideal for picking up intricate details, even on darker surfaces. It has four different scanning modes and processes up to 3 million points per second.
The EinScan Pro HD is a cost-effective solution, that does not sacrifice quality. Use it for reverse engineering, simulation, or 3D printing projects.
EinScan HX:
If you are looking for something portable and reliable the EinScan HX is a great option. It utilizes a combination of blue laser and blue LED light to increase performance and scanning speed. The EinScan HX also comes fully equipped with a color camera to create colored 3D images.
The EinScan HX is perfect if you aren’t as familiar with 3D scanning and 3D scanning software as it is very intuitive to use and won’t break the bank.
Laser Scanning Technology
By utilizing AI in 3D scanning software, manufacturers are getting back valuable time and resources. Along with tidying up the image cleaning process, artificial intelligence is opening doors for additional technological advances and designs.
To remain on the leading edge of laser scanning technology, invest in a 3D scanner for your business. Along with the EinScan Pro HD and EinScan HX, Go3DPro has a range of products to suit your specific needs. Contact us today to find the right 3D scanner for you!
