There are many applications available with 3d scanning making the possibilities almost endless, from artistic masterpieces, secret military prototypes, to the creation of human organs and limbs. All these areas have been affected and influenced by laser scanning technology. There is a wide range of varied industries utilizing 3d scanning technology and they include the medical field, entertainment, artistic field, automotive, and the field of manufacturing.
Three-dimensional scanning works alongside 3d printing technology. In its first stages of printing solid forms, it was limited due to the lack of quality in the materials; the poor quality had effects on the finished models. However, today the range in material available increases and includes various metals, plastics, and wax. Each of the materials has seen vast improvements in the overall quality in finished projects.
The use of the 3d scanner has also risen dramatically, especially in the art sector; the reason behind this is due to the highly accurate results. Historians and museums like the Smithsonian have been able to capture intricate details of classic masterpieces and are able to successfully restore, and preserve fading art that is simply deteriorating due to the aging process.
In manufacturing, using precision scanners means that a highly detailed three-dimensional image can be designed for any part. Replacement parts can be made very easily with rapid prototyping of the new parts. The design is saved in a CAD program and is able to duplicate the parts exact measurements resulting in a perfect fit every time.
In the medical field, they are using this advanced technology to successfully implement and re-create human organs. Medical professional are also able to create exact fit prosthetic limbs. Scanning technology has come so far and only improves as time goes on and the demands more sophisticated.
