3D Scanning: From Mesh to Model

Learn how to go from a 3D scan to an optimized model that fits into nearly any product design workflow.

Introduction

• Go from 3D scan to CAD model
• Tools and cost discussion

1. What Is 3D Scanning?

• What is 3D scanning?
• Resolution vs. accuracy
• Hobbyist vs. professional scanners
• Uses for 3D scanning: Reverse engineer
• Uses for 3D scanning: Organic
• 3D scanning can blend both uses

2. What Is Reverse Engineering?

• What is reverse engineering?
• Case study: Automotive
• Case study: Consumer product
• Case study: Medical prosthetics
• Tools for reverse engineering
• Accuracy addendum

3. How to Approach Reverse Engineering Projects

• What is your role and goal for RE?
• Don't forget there are professionals
• Metrology and Micro-CT awareness

4. Acquiring 3D Scans: Inexpensively

• Scans using photogrammetry
• Photogrammetry products
• Photogrammetry tips for success
• Photogrammetry issues may not be bad
• Leveling up your photogrammetry game

5. Acquiring 3D Scans: Professional Tools

• Scans with Artec structured light
• Artec scanning workflow
• Cleaning up and aligning scans
• Meshing and evaluation of mesh
• Artec techniques

6. Post-Processing Scans

• Introduction to the free tool Meshmixer
• Smoothing
• Hole filling
• Advanced mesh repair
• Aligning for RE, part 1
• Aligning for RE, part 2
• Mesh reduction for CAD import

7. Reverse Engineering Done Inexpensively

• Introduction to Instant Meshes
• Processing OBJ files with Instant Meshes
• Reverse engineering workflow guidelines
• From Instant Meshes to Fusion 360
• Importing quad models into Fusion 360
• Convert and repair for solidity
• What the resulting model looks like

8. Reverse Engineering Using Fusion 360: Mesh Sections

• Fusion 360 for reverse engineering
• Importing STL files and aligning
• Creating mesh sections
• Fitting curves to mesh sections
• Evaluating curve tolerances
• Reverse engineering: Example

9. Reverse Engineering Using Fusion 360: Sculpt Objects

• Importing STL models and aligning
• Sculpt face snapping introduction
• Choices for retopology: Lines or full
• Converting to solid model

Conclusion

• Comparing to the original scan
• Conclusion and next steps