How to Build Your Own 3D Laser Scanner

A 3D laser scanner is a relatively recent innovation that takes advantage of simple hardware to create stunning three-dimensional scans of objects and people. Surprisingly obtaining a 3D laser scanner is not as difficult or expensive as it would seem. Once setup, a 3D laser scanner can make remarkable life-like three-dimensional scans of an item for export into a 3D graphics program

What You Need To Build A 3D Laser Scanner

The materials needed for a person to setup their own laser scanner are relatively simple. A backdrop composed of boards, a web cam, a line laser, and specialty software is all that’s required. Two approaches can be taken to assembling a 3D scanner. For the do it yourself type the hardware can be sourced and assembled at home. With this approach the only specialty item needed will be the software.

For those that prefer a less hands on approach kits are available that contain everything required and only require assembly. Regardless of the approach taken the results are three-dimensional images, which can then be used in 3D graphics program. The image can then be further manipulated. These images created in this fashion can be of great use to 3D artists and save hours of tedious recreation of objects. The generation of 3D scanned objects also allows for a world of manipulation possibilities once imported into a 3D graphics program. The imagination is now the artist’s only limit.

With a small investment in funds and time any 3D artist can have a 3D laser scanner of their own. The equipment and software are actually now so affordable that anyone can justify getting a setup of their very own, even if 3D art is only a hobby. For hobby or professional use 3D art will never be the same since this technology is so readily available and can be used for so many different and exciting uses.