3D printers have long ceased to be a curiosity for Russians. Increasingly, these devices can be found not only in manufacturing plants and in companies involved in engineering and design. They are actively used by consumers both for personal needs (creating souvenirs, figurines) and for work purposes, moreover, in various fields - medicine, construction, science, car manufacturing, etc. However, all this would be impossible without 3D scanners that transfer data about a physical object into digital format and, using special computer programs, create a three-dimensional model, which can later be sent for printing. Scanning, in fact, is only the first stage of work, but the main part of it falls on the processing of the collected information. For more info, you can visit https://install.download/windows/meshmixer where you can download the best software for 3d scanning.

Specialized software not only analyzes the information received and creates a virtual copy based on it, but also helps to eliminate possible errors and errors made during the scanning process and much more.

Today we will talk about the most popular programs for 3D scanners that allow you to solve almost any user task.

Photomodeler Scanner

Very simple and functional software that can create 3D models of varying degrees of complexity. Almost everyone can understand it and learn how to use it to recreate virtual copies of anything, even a person.

You can set the characteristics of a future object in Photomodeler Scanner using 3 methods:

  • by setting the parameters manually;

  • automatically, from already laid beacons; 

  • from a point cloud from overlapping images.

In the latter version, the user will also need to indicate the position of the camera during the shooting process and mark control points on the images, linking them together.

With Photomodeler Scanner, you can create all kinds of diagrams, graphs, different planes, expand a 3D line, and much more.

This application is very affordable and at the same time allows you to get professional results with a minimum of effort.

RapidForm

One of the most frequently used and convenient programs. It is distinguished by its quality and versatility, as it is suitable for many models of 3D printers.

It analyzes the data received using a 3D scanner and creates an accurate three-dimensional model. If you need to make any changes, then it will be quite easy to do this, since the program is very simple and straightforward to use.

RapidForm has several types of programs:

  • XOS - designed to regulate and control 3D scanning, as well as processing the resulting images.

  • XOR is widely used in design, as it has a huge number of tools for 3D modeling. With its help, you can create high-precision three-dimensional models (on a cloud of points) of almost anything.

  • XOV - allows you to control the quality of the resulting three-dimensional image, which makes it possible to maximize its detail.

RangeVision ScanCenter

Software that provides the user with a huge selection of functions and tools for creating a high-precision digital three-dimensional copy of an object of any complexity. For data analysis, unique algorithms are used that make it possible to convey as clearly as possible not only the geometry of the scanned object, but also its color (up to shades, including white) and texture. At the same time, anyone can understand the RangeVision ScanCenter, as it is intuitive and easy to use.

It can work in various scanning modes: free, with markers and on a turntable. The resulting file can be exported to all popular formats.

All actions of the program are automated as much as possible (calibration, adjustment, analysis of the quality of scans), which greatly simplifies the task and at the same time gives the best result at the output.

Geomagic Control X/Design X/Wrap

Geomagic professional 3D scanning programs are available in 3 versions: Wrap, Control X, Design X. They use the latest topological shape recognition technologies. They can not only project a three-dimensional image of an object, but also analyze the degree of its possible wear and deviations. Often used in reverse engineering.

Geomagic Design X - 3D reverse design software. Provides the ability to combine CAD processing and 3D scan data based on a design, resulting in detailed CAD models. This can be done both automatically and manually by setting parameters and editing the processing of point clouds and polygonal meshes.

Geomagic Control X is software for quality control and geometry of 3D models. Provides users with a wide range of tools to enhance their scanning experience with reporting and data analysis capabilities.

Wrap : used to process point clouds and meshes, used in modeling and design. It works quickly and accurately, making it possible to optimize the resulting model without losing the original properties of the object, such as texture and texture. After processing the scan data with Wrap, the created 3D project can be printed. Suitable for both small and large items.

The Geomagic software package, like other analogues, allows you to control the quality of scans and export 3D models created on their basis to various formats.

FARO Scene

Faro is a world famous manufacturer of 3D scanners, which also produces one of the most advanced software for them. One such program is Faro Scene. It is suitable for working both with "native" devices of the same brand, and for many others.

It is very effective in processing scans: it can combine them, carry out all kinds of measurements, visualize data, etc. In addition, thanks to the advanced functions of the program, it is possible to transfer color from a photo to a finished model by overlaying and further balancing it.

3DF Zephyr

Perhaps the most popular program among users, due to its convenience and simplicity. The interface is so clear that it is not difficult to understand it.

Suitable for both amateurs and professionals. The latter will especially like a large selection of tools and settings, including the ability to transfer the resulting three-dimensional model to CAD software.

Colmap

Indispensable in cases where you need to quickly and easily create a 3D copy of an object. Colmap makes it possible to use a 3D mesh both from one camera and from several. This approach is very convenient where you need to scan a large number of items in a short time.

The “minus” is that editing 3D models will not work without additional software. However, the quality of such 3D images is quite acceptable.

PolyWorks

The capabilities of the program allow you to analyze the accuracy of the resulting three-dimensional copy, as well as its quality.

PolyWorks is widely used in areas where maximum detail of a 3D object and its accurate reproduction are required: medicine, automotive, construction, design, etc.

Vxmodel

Software created specifically for reverse engineering products, as well as finalizing 3D scan data. It has the function of editing a polygonal model, its alignment, extraction of primitives, construction of surfaces and export of objects.

It can process information from any 3D scanners and translate it into CAD and prepare it for 3D printing, so it is very convenient to use. Manufactured by Creaform.

Artec Studio

Quality software with a wide range of tools. At the same time, you can use it even if you do not have the skills to work with such programs. Especially for such users, the "Autopilot" mode was developed, which simplifies the process of processing 3D scanning data as much as possible, independently selecting algorithms based on the user's answers.

Allows you to control the quality of the 3D model not only at the processing stage (compatible with Geomagic Control X), but also in the process, giving a color signal about how close / far the operator is from the object when scanning.

The program itself is able to select the degree of sensitivity of the scanner, as it can analyze the type and complexity of the surface. This makes it possible to digitize even dark and shiny objects.

Well determines the colors and configuration of the scanned object, making it unnecessary to apply markers. Suitable for formatting scans for CAD.

Artec Studio easily handles large amounts of data, making it ideal for 3D scanning of various buildings and structures, etc. All operations are performed very quickly and efficiently.