3D scanning devices have revolutionized the field of surveying, making it possible to collect accurate and detailed measurements of objects and environments. These devices use a variety of technologies to create three-dimensional models of objects, including laser scanning, photogrammetry, and structured light.

The first 3D scanning devices

The first 3D scanning devices were developed in the 1960s and 1970s. These devices were large and expensive, and they were used primarily for research and development purposes. The first commercial 3D scanning device was the Cyberware 3D Digitizer, which was released in 1980. This device was used to create 3D models of human bodies for medical and industrial applications.

The early days of 3D scanning

In the early days of 3D scanning, the technology was limited by the available hardware and software. The resolution of 3D models was low, and the scanning process was slow and cumbersome. However, the technology continued to improve, and by the 1990s, 3D scanning was becoming more affordable and accessible.

The rise of laser scanning

Laser scanning is one of the most common technologies used for 3D scanning. Laser scanners emit a beam of light that is reflected off of the object being scanned. The reflected light is then captured by a sensor, which is used to create a 3D model of the object.

The first commercial laser scanner was the Faro Laser Scanner, which was released in 1994. This scanner was used for a variety of applications, including surveying, construction, and manufacturing.

The development of photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is another technology that is used for 3D scanning. Photogrammetry uses a series of photographs to create a 3D model of an object.

The first commercial photogrammetry software was developed in the 1980s. This software was used for a variety of applications, including aerial mapping and archaeological surveying.

The development of structured light

Structured light is a technology that uses a pattern of light to create a 3D model of an object.

The first commercial structured light scanner was the Cyberware 3D Digitizer, which was released in 1980. This scanner was used for a variety of applications, including medical imaging and industrial design.

The present day

3D scanning technology is rapidly evolving. New technologies are being developed that offer improved resolution, accuracy, and speed.

One of the most promising new technologies is time-of-flight scanning. Time-of-flight scanners measure the time it takes for light to travel from the scanner to the object and back. This information is then used to create a 3D model of the object.

Another promising new technology is LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). LIDAR scanners use a laser to measure the distance to objects. This information is then used to create a 3D model of the environment.

The future of 3D scanning

3D scanning is becoming increasingly important in a variety of industries. The technology is being used for surveying, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and entertainment.

As 3D scanning technology continues to evolve, it is likely to become even more affordable and accessible. This will lead to even wider adoption of the technology in a variety of industries.

File formats

The file formats used for 3D scanning data have evolved over time. Early 3D scanning devices used proprietary file formats that were not compatible with other software. However, as the technology has become more widespread, a number of open-source file formats have been developed.

Some of the most common 3D scanning file formats include:

• .obj: This format is supported by a variety of 3D modeling and animation software.
• .stl: This format is a standard format for 3D printing.
• .ply: This format is supported by a variety of 3D visualization software.
• .las: This format is a standard format for LIDAR data.

The choice of file format depends on the application for which the 3D scanning data will be used. For example, .obj and .stl formats are typically used for 3D modeling and animation, while .ply and .las formats are typically used for visualization and analysis.

Key differences between past and present 3D scanning devices

The key differences between past and present 3D scanning devices include:

• Size and weight: Past 3D scanning devices were often large and heavy, making them difficult to transport and use. Present 3D scanning devices are typically smaller and lighter, making them more portable and user-friendly.
• Resolution: Past 3D scanning devices had relatively low resolution, resulting in 3D models that were less detailed. Present 3D scanning devices offer improved resolution, resulting in 3D models that are more detailed and accurate.
• Speed: Past 3D scanning devices were slow, making it time-consuming to create 3D models. Present 3D scanning devices are faster, making it possible to create 3D models more quickly.
• Cost: Past 3D scanning devices were expensive, making them out of reach for many users. Present 3D scanning devices are more affordable, making them more accessible to a wider range of users.

Innovations in 3D scanning technology

The rapid evolution of 3D scanning technology has been driven by a number of innovations, including:

• The development of new technologies: New technologies, such as time-of-flight scanning and LIDAR, have offered improved resolution, speed, and accuracy.
• The miniaturization of sensors: The miniaturization of sensors has made it possible to create smaller and more affordable 3D scanning devices.
• The improvement of software: The improvement of software has made it easier to create and use 3D scanning data.

As 3D scanning technology continues to evolve, it is likely to become even more powerful and versatile. This will lead to even wider adoption of the technology in a variety of industries.