Recent advances in technology and software have opened the accessibility of 3D printing to a wider audience. Also 3D scanning has moved beyond specialised use, such as in academia and industry. In 2010 it is 3D, which is based in London and a distributor of the David Laser Scanner line of products, introduced the first low cost 3D laser scanning starter kit. Two years ago, the company introduced the SLS-1, the first structured light 3D scanner for under £2,000. Now, it is 3D is introducing the SLS-2, featuring a range of improvements over the previous model and a similar purchase price.
This new 3D scanner employs innovative Structured Light technology for precise 3D scanning in a matter of seconds. The software pursues the single click ideal: The scanner is mobile and can easily be placed in front of the object, then a single click in the software starts the scan, a few seconds later the model is digitised in three dimensions. In the same way you can scan every side of an object then combine them into a closed 360° model. The modular hardware set-up allows a flexible adaptation to your object – any size from coin to couch is possible.
SLS-1 to SLS-2 improvements include:
- Camera with special firmware (adjusted for SL scanning)
- Slider for easy and faster set-up of projector and camera
- (enables exact set-up in mm and deg)
- HD video projector with higher capacity and larger focus range
- Stable glass calibration panels
SLS-2 technical specifications:
- Scan size: 60-500 mm
- Resolution/Precision: As fine as 0.1% of scan size (down to 0.06 mm)
- Scanning time: 2-4 seconds per scan
- Mesh density: Up to 1,200,000 vertices per scan
- Dimensional weight for shipment: 10 kg
The results can be exported into common 3D file formats (OBJ, STL, PLY) and processed in other 3D software for multiple applications such as rapid prototyping, product presentations, archaeology, and cultural heritage, artworks, video games, teaching and so forth. The output can, of course, be 3D printed. it is 3D manufacture their own range of 3D printers, the Maxit 3D, a RepRap Prusa looking model which features a build area of 210 x 160 x 100 mm, and the Pi Printer which includes a build area of 120 x 120 x 120 mm. The SLS-2 is currently available for £1825 +VAT.
