Technology in the past decade has become so advanced that it’s hard to keep up with all that is new. However, it has contributed so much to many fields that we may be benefiting from technologies every day that we still haven’t heard of. 3D scanning, for example, could be one of those technologies that you benefit from without realizing it since it has become integrated into many fields, especially since they became smaller, portable, and more affordable.
It’s a technology that creates highly precise 3D models of real-world objects. It analyses the shape, appearance, and color of the object, then turns it into a digital file that is printed with a 3D printer. Here are some of the things that need this 3D scanning technology.
1. Medicine
The healthcare industry has greatly benefited from the 3D scanning technology in both research and patient care. The precision and speed of this technology have made it a great asset in medical procedures while still ensuring the safety of both patients and physicians. Its use of light for measurement makes it extremely accurate as well as its ability to reach difficult places.
The best thing about it in the medical industry is that it’s a non-invasive technology with great results that are quick and don’t entail physical contact with patients. 3D scanning is used to get a full and quick body scan for research of diagnosis. It is also widely used to create 3D ultrasounds, producing 3D photos in obstetrics.
However, one of the greatest uses is manufacturing customized prosthetic and orthotic devices like back braces, implants, prostheses, and personalized wheelchairs.
Read More About What Can you 3D Print in Medicine Right now.
2. Forensics
Forensic science and research is another industry that requires the highest levels of accuracy that only 3D scanning can provide. Portable 3D scanners, for example, are ideal for use by the police force in crime scenes. They make collecting forensic data easier with the ability to scan indoors and outdoors, and even in direct sunlight.
It’s even used by some insurance companies and in courts of law to present evidence. Its added perk of being able to digitize the collected data also adds to its appeal in the field, not to mention guaranteeing accurate, reliable results.
3. Engineering
Industries that are concerned with manufacturing, industrial design, or engineering have all also greatly benefitted from 3D scanning. They have come to replace manual methods that used to be more expensive and took more time to get the job done.
It is especially used in reverse engineering and the experts at Next Gen Metrology recommend only using high-quality scanners for such a detail-oriented field. They are ideal for fast prototyping and they scan any object needing modifications, translating the 3D point-cloud data into a polygon file. This file allows visualization of the scanned object in order to remodel it then printing it in 3D.
4. Archeology & Geographic Discovery
Another important field that needs 3D scanning technologies in their complicated processes is archeology and geography. It has done wonders in bringing history back to life with its contribution to heritage preservation. A simple shard found in an excavation can be scanned and presented in hundreds of exhibits.
The University of Illinois, for example, took 3D scanning to Cambodia’s temple city complex of Angkor Wat which covers 734 miles in what was the largest archaeological project using LIDAR technology combined with the best 3D scanning software. It was able to discover networks of cities and roads buried under the jungle and re-adjust historical timelines for the Khmer empire.
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