Creaform HandySCAN 3D can be used to get point clouds and mesh models of any object. Training and permission from ETSG staff are required to use it.

Resources

The scanner is in the lab, MCP 307.

• Documentation is on BOX under ETSG > Facilities and Equipment > MCP Student Mechanical Lab > Resources > Creaform 3D Scanner
  • The Training folder has useful PDFs with information on how to use the scanner and VX Model software. ACADEMIA 50 – Scanner Self-Training Document covers most of the scanning process.
• The scanner uses VXelements software which is installed on the HP ZBook on the western table in the lab.
• The scanner as well as other resources are in the west cabinet on the north wall. The key is on the rack by the door.
• Remote Access:
  • Name: DESKTOP-GSGNHG2 (On MCP Ethernet)
  • IPv4 Address: 128.135.102.240 (On UChicago WiFi or Ethernet)
  • ID: PSD ETSG 3D Scanner
  • Password: PotentialScan307~

Checklist

• Setup:
  • Connect the computer to the dongle and scanner USB cable.
  • Connect the scanner to the USB cable (also plug in the power supply connector) and the power supply to the USB cable and the wall outlet.
  • Set up targets (reflective circles with black border) around (or on) the object to scan. More targets are in the cardboard dispenser box inside the scanner crate.
  • Start VXelements software on the computer
  • Select Scan → New Scan
    • Optional: Calibrate using the class plate with dot pattern at the bottom of the box.
    • Set the resolution and other scan parameters on the left.
• Scanning:
  • Start Scan → Do the scan / interrupt possible
    • Round button on back of scanner to start/pause
    • Make sure light / distance bar stays green
  • Improve while scanning (pause then continue):
    • Align to Origin to align the axis
    • Use clipping plane to remove unwanted regions around the object (cuts down computing time)
• Post Processing:
  • Post Processing in VXelements
    • Improve axis and add clipping planes
    • Select and delete points
  • Processing in VXmodel: use Send to VXmodel
    • Clean Mesh – fills small holes and model blemishes
    • Fill Holes tool to fill larger holes individually
    • Confirm that Properties → Watertight = Yes
    • Export the mesh (STL is common file format)
    • Save the mesh to your Box/google drive or USB stick.
• Lock the computer to the safety cable, leave it running with the red USB dongle plugged in.