The scanning speed of a 3D scanner will depend on its type, resolution, and area of application; however, modern scanners can attain reasonable acquisition speeds. Most high-quality 3D scanners reach speeds of up to 1.2 million points per second and are thus able to provide detailed point clouds in a short time for intricate models. This has made them irreplaceable in fields such as manufacturing, health, and building.
Structured light scanners normally process 10 to 30 frames per second, and each frame can capture several thousands of data points. This means an object can be fully scanned in a couple of minutes depending on its size and complexity. Using the example of the Revopoint Pop 2, scanning goes at a speed of up to 10 frames per second with an accuracy of 0.05mm, striking an excellent balance between the two.
Handheld 3D scanners are highly preferred because they offer the advantage of mobility and scanning in real time. They are able to circumnavigate an object and capture dynamic data at speeds of up to 30 frames per second. This enables professionals to scan complex designs or moving parts without requiring a fixed setup. Portable scanners represented 35% of the market for 3D scanners in 2023, a factor that has increased their prominence in agile environments.
Laser-based scanners, commonly used in architectural and industrial applications, excel at capturing large-scale environments. These devices can scan objects as large as 100 meters at speeds reaching 1 million points per second. LiDAR scanners, a subset of laser-based technology, are capable of scanning expansive areas like cityscapes or forests in mere hours. For example, LiDAR was instrumental in scanning Notre Dame Cathedral after the 2019 fire, creating a detailed 3D model in just 24 hours.
While photogrammetry systems are a bit slower to process images, they can also create highly detailed 3D models in just a few hours. Photogrammetry systems are ideal for scenarios where large-scale modeling is required, like in archaeological sites or movie set design, but their speed heavily depends on the resolution of the images and the processing software.
Dr. James Peterson, a robotics expert, said, “The speed of modern 3D scanners is revolutionizing industries, cutting project times by half and improving accuracy.” Such efficiency means substantial cost savings for businesses, with many projects being completed 30% faster than when using traditional methods.
Those who need either professional or amateur solutions might consider a 3d scanner, which has managed to blend portability with high-speed processing. With these devices, one can capture fine details in an impressively short time; hence, the device is irreplaceable in many fields, starting from product design and ending with cultural heritage preservation.