South Korean researchers have developed a novel, handheld 3D scanner that conveniently generates data required for 3D printing.
The features of this new technology were recently demonstrated at the K-ICT 3D Printing Conference 2015 in Seoul.
How does it work? You simply use the scanner to scan an object, and it relays the data for the dimensions and form of that object to a computer, where it can be adjusted via a simple user interface before being printed by your 3D printer.
The technology utilizes graphical user interface (GUI) design functions and tools such as a scroll bar, height and width attributes, and specified target models. The general public is well-versed in all these tools and functions. The design can be further altered with a simple tap of the scroll bar.
The handheld 3D scanner is equipped with geometric correction between multiple cameras and line lasers, precise real-time detection of scanner positions, and a real-time preview of scanned results. Its simulation feature also checks an object’s durability and stability before it is fabricated.
Apart from these, South Korea Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) researchers have leveraged the technology into the development of a low-cost 3D scanner for mobile devices. So, a miniature version of the handheld 3D scanner basically transforms mobile phones into 3D scanners.
The built-in support features and simple user interface will dramatically increase the usability of 3D printing for the general public, users having faced difficulties in producing or acquiring the necessary 3D data when using existing 3D printers. It will also simplify user-to-user interaction and support services, making collaboration through a library of 3D printing objects much more straightforward.
According to Statista, the size of the global market for 3D printing, materials and associated services is expected to grow 320% in the four years from $3.8 billion in 2014 to $16.2 billion 2018.
Image courtesy of ETRI. Content courtesy of CBS Interactive/ZDNet
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