Transform Your Creativity into Reality: Exploring the Power of 3D Scanning and 3D Printing

Feb 23, 2024

combination of 3d scanning and 3d printing

The integration of 3D scanning and 3D printing technologies is revolutionizing product design, manufacturing, art, and daily life. Together, they form a seamless process facilitating rapid prototyping, medical rehabilitation, and artistic design, unlocking new possibilities for product designers, engineers, and manufacturers.

What is 3D Scanning?

ireal m3 3d scanning

3D scanning is a process of capturing the geometric shape and external features of an object by using laser, optical, or other sensor technologies and converting them into a digital three-dimensional model. During the 3D scanning process, sensors collect data points on the surface of the object, which are then used to generate or reconstruct a three-dimensional model of the object. This technology finds wide applications in industrial design, manufacturing, cultural heritage preservation, medical, additive manufacturing, virtual reality, reverse engineering, among others. With 3D scanning, users can rapidly and accurately acquire three-dimensional information of objects, providing crucial data support for subsequent design, analysis, and manufacturing processes.

What is 3D Printing?

what is 3d printing

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by depositing successive layers of material, such as plastic, metal, ceramic, or composite materials, based on a digital model. Unlike traditional subtractive manufacturing methods that involve cutting away material from a solid block, 3D printing builds objects layer by layer, which enables the production of complex geometries and customized designs with relatively low cost and lead time.

Case Study: 3D Scan For 3D Printing

Cultural Heritage Preservation

3D Printing is undergoing rapid technological advancements, offering exciting opportunities in the field of cultural heritage. The ability to accurately replicate valuable relics grants global accessibility to these treasures, fostering a deeper appreciation for history and culture. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in object reconstruction, research, documentation, protection, and educational endeavors.

sailner color 3d printing

After capturing the accurate 3D data and images, the iReal 3D Mapping software swiftly generates a lifelike 3D model of the vase. Despite the complexities posed by faculae and uneven shading on its shining surface, the process remains straightforward yet challenging. Leveraging Sailner 3D’s full-color 3D printing technology, the 3D model seamlessly transitions into a physical replica, achieving perfection in replication.

ireal m3 3d scanning
iReal M3 3D Scanning
Taking Groups of Images
Taking Groups of Images
Creating Textures for the 3D Model in iReal 3D Mapping Software
Creating Textures for the 3D Model in iReal 3D Mapping Software
Post Process After Color 3D Printing
Post Process After Color 3D Printing

Art and Design

With 3D technologies, unleash boundless creativity. 3D scanning captures intricate 3D models of real-world objects and human bodies, while the design freedom of 3D printing empowers you to materialize shapes, structures, and concepts previously unattainable with traditional manufacturing methods. Bring your ideas to life swiftly, push creative boundaries, and explore a new frontier in art and design.

3D Printed Mask
3D Printed Mask
Wearing the Customized Mask
Wearing the Customized Mask

Ever wondered how to create a personalized art mask?

Our process begins with the precise capture of facial dimensions using the iReal M3 3D scanner. From there, our expert engineers shape the mask’s contours with Blender, meticulously adding texture and detail using Mari software. Finally, we bring the digital design to life using the Bambu Lab X1 Color 3D Printer, producing a tangible masterpiece.

iReal M3 Face 3D Scanning
iReal M3 Face 3D Scanning
Design the Art Mask in Blender
Design the Art Mask in Blender
Adding Textures in Mari
Adding Textures in Mari
Bambu Lab X1 3D Printer
Bambu Lab X1 3D Printer

Cultural Creative Products

The constraints of exhibition space and the delicate nature of cultural artifacts have historically hindered museums’ efforts to convey history and culture, and the technological advancements are now facilitating more innovative and immersive exhibition formats.

Utilizing 3D scanning technology, museums can precisely and safely capture real information about cultural objects, allowing for vibrant and interactive online displays. When paired with 3D printing technology, this approach enables the creation of imaginative products for visitors to explore extensively.

We utilized a sand mold 3D printer from Kocel Steel Foundry Co., LTD to 3D print a physical Buddha after obtaining the STL 3D data scanned SIMSCAN 3D laser scanner.

SIMSCAN 3D Scanning
SIMSCAN 3D Scanning
3D Scanned Data
3D Scanned Data
Sand Mold 3D Printer
Sand Mold 3D Printer
Post Processing After Sand 3D Printing
Post Processing After Sand 3D Printing

Customization

iReal 3D scanners excel in digitizing human bodies and body parts, offering precise data for customization in healthcare and sports, particularly for athletes. Tailored equipment can be crafted to match athletes’ requirements, enhancing comfort and maximizing performance improvements.

Make A 3D-Printed Nose Mask and Shin Guards for the Footballer
Make A 3D-Printed Nose Mask and Shin Guards for the Footballer

The collaboration between our reseller in Italy, 3DItaly, and Reggina 1914, aimed to provide personalized, lightweight protective gear for promising young footballer Niccolò Pierozzi.

Young Footballer Niccolò Pierozzi
Young Footballer Niccolò Pierozzi

How do we achieve the perfect fit and lightweight design?

1. Utilize the iReal 2E 3D scannerfor comprehensive body scanning, capturing detailed 3D data of the face and legs.

iReal 2E Human Body 3D Scanning
iReal 2E Human Body 3D Scanning

2. Design the mask and shin guards using Fusion 360 software, based on the precise 3D scanned data.

Design in the Fusion 360 Software
Design in the Fusion 360 Software

3. Employ 3D printing technology to bring these designs to life, ensuring the physical devices meet the athlete’s exact requirements.

In conclusion, it’s evident that 3D scanning and printing are revolutionizing numerous industries, promising to shape the future in unprecedented ways.

Curious about iReal 3D scanners or our digital solutions? Reach out to us to schedule a demo and enjoy a complimentary consultation!