FAQ
General Questions
What is a 3D scanner?
3D scanner is a device that examines a real-world object to obtain data on its shape. The data collected can be used to create 3D models. Different technologies are used by 3D scanners, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
What is a polygon mesh?
A mesh is a representation of a 3D model made from thousands of points in space (called vertices), all linked together by lines (called edges), which form tiny polygonal shapes (called faces). The assembling of all these geometric elements leads to a mesh-like structure depicting the surface of an object. Popular file formats of polygon mesh are STL, OBJ, PLY, CSF.
What is a NURBS model?
NURBS stands for “Non-Uniform Rational Basis Spline”. A NURBS model comprises of surface patches fitted to scan data that create a highly accurate surface CAD model of the part in the as-is condition.
What is a parametric model?
A parametric model is a CAD model that has a feature-based history tree. The history allows the user to modify their part in their native CAD software, such as Solidworks, Creo, and Autodesk.
Why should I use 3D services from V3D Technologies?
V3D Technologies aims to accelerate product development and quality inspection through accurate and precise 3D Scanning, 3D Metrology, and Reverse Engineering solutions. Our state-of-the-art, metrology grade scanner meets VDI/VDE 2634 part 3 standard and is certified by an ISO 17025 accredited lab. We have over two decades of expertise in the sector and a thorough grasp of your CAD and metrology requirements.
Technical Questions
How long does it take to scan an object in 3D?
3D Scanning process (together with post-processing of scan data) might take anywhere from half an hour to several hours, depending on the object’s size, shape, and complexity.
What is meant by the "Resolution" of a 3D scanner?
The resolution of a 3D scanner is its capacity to detect and render details on a surface. For example, if you have a small scratch on a wooden surface, the better the resolution, the most precise the scratch will appear on the 3D model. V3D Technologies scanners have a resolution up to 0.1 mm, which means we can capture excellent details on surfaces: close to the size of a grain of sand.
What is meant by the "Accuracy" of a 3D scanner?
The accuracy of a 3D scanner can be defined as how it compares to the actual physical object. The greater the accuracy, the closest the 3D model will be to reality. V3D Technologies scanners have a certified accuracy of 0.025mm (0.0009 in)
What are the steps to Reverse Engineer an object (from Scanning to 3D Model)?
Steps for creating a 3D model from Scan data (collectively called Reverse Engineer process) are:
- Import scan data into Reverse Engineering software like VX Model or Geomagic Design X
- Align scan data to coordinate system
- Extract planes, primitives, cross-sections or create NURBS surfaces
- Create CAD model directly in the Reverse Engineering software (e.g., Geomagic Design X) or export planes, primitives, cross-sections, etc., to CAD package of choice such as Solidworks, Creo, etc., and create a CAD model.
- The model can be a surface model or a parametric solid model
- Compare CAD model to scanned mesh and adjust the model as required.
What is 3D color map/heat map comparison?
3D color map/heat map comparison is the process of overlaying 2 or more 3D data sets and displaying the normal deviation between them. Deviated distance is represented by a chromatic color scheme defined by the user. The overall look of a colormap is also described as similar to a color topographical map and uses the same principles to determine color variation.