3D Scanning and Printing

[Lance King]

If you can get one of anything: purchased or scratch built you can do a 3D scan of it for printing.

If you have a high end printer it may have a scanner built in. Problem solved.

If not, local public libraries are starting to support both 3D scanning and printing. There are two nearby libraries that are in to 3D: one scanning, the other printing. You usually have to do some sort of sign up and maybe an orientation class but after that you can access the services freely.

You can save the scan file on a thumb drive for your 3D software or for taking to a printing service. Scanning only takes a few minutes. My local library does this for free.

The other library that offers the 3D printing service requires you submit the file to them. Then they notify you when the piece is ready. They only charge the cost of the materials which is a great deal. If the piece does not print properly then there is no charge.

So if you want to avoid costs / learning curve / setup & space issues etc. check around where you live.

 

[comedianmasta]

I think this is extreamly cool, but how accurate are the scanners? Are they... scan in the models and poof, there you have it accurate? or are they get the general size and shape and some editing for detail required.

And if anyone has things like, say, landing craft and can scan them. This would be greatly, GREATLY, appreciated.

 

[Lance King]

I think this is extreamly cool, but how accurate are the scanners? Are they... scan in the models and poof, there you have it accurate? or are they get the general size and shape and some editing for detail required.

And if anyone has things like, say, landing craft and can scan them. This would be greatly, GREATLY, appreciated.

Not sure what resolution yet. Undercuts might be an issue and I think a hollow item like Landing craft might be tough. But then you could use photogrammetry which is another technique I am learning about.