3D scanning FAQ

A 3d scanner is a device that analyses a real-world object to collect the data on its shape. Сollected data can be used to create 3D models. 3D scanners use different technologies, with their own benefits and limitations.

Minimum system requirements for RangeVision NEO and Spectrum:

• 8 GB of RAM;
• Intel° Core° i3/i5 1.8 GHz (Broadwell-based or newer);
• free HDMI output;
• for RangeVision NEO: 1 USB port + 1 USB port for turntable. For Spectrum: 2 USB ports for cameras + 1 USB port for peripherals (USB hub with 4 connectors included).

RangeVision PRO comes with a computer which meets all the necessary requirements.

It is recommended to use the Windows operating system 7/ 8.1 /10. There is no RangeVision software for MacOS or Linux.

A 3D scanner can be used to create digital three dimensional models of real-world objects. Here you can read more about 3D-scanning applications.

We supply 3D scanners with ScanCenter software developed by RangeVision. The software allows you to scan, align and merge scans, generate united mesh and export polygonal model.

RangeVision NEO scans objects between 3 cm and 1.2 meters.
RangeVision Spectrum - from 10 mm to 3 meters.
RangeVision PRO - from 5 mm to 5 meters.

The resolution of the devices will not be sufficient to scan smaller objects. When scanning objects larger than the maximum allowed size, the quality of the result will be negatively affected by the accumulated error and a lot of data.

The projector light shouldn't be absorbed. Highly reflective, translucent or very dark surfaces must be covered with matt spray.

You can export united mesh in OBJ, PLY, STL, PTX, ASCII. These file formats are supported by 3D modelling software or 3D printing tools.

To buy our scanner, contact our resellers in 20 countries of the World.

Scanning area is scanner's field of view. RangeVision scanners have several scanning areas. You need to use different scanning zones for objects of different size.

You can scan with or without markers or using the turntable. Scans can be aligned automatically or manually.

…metal parts?
Yes, but if the surface is too glossy, you have to use matting spray
…a car?
Yes, for this kind of large objects use scanning with markers. Dark and glossy surfaces should be covered with matting spray. For more accurate scan registration use photogrammetry systems.
…human face or body part?
No, you can't scan body parts.
…people?
No, you can't scan people.
…jewelry?
Yes, it’s possible to scan jewelry. RangeVision 3D scanner should be calibrated for scanning zone S. For better results, use an automatic turntable. You can view examples of 3D models in the 3D gallery. 3D gallery
…holes, slots, gaps on an object?
To create a 3D model a scanner needs to get images of the surface from both cameras at the same time. That’s why it’s impossible to get a deep holes scan. This is a feature of the technology, not a specific model scanner.

Yes, you can install our software on several PCs, but for scanning you need to insert USB-dongle with license file.

Standard package:

• Scanning module;

• Tripod;

• Set of calibration plates;

• Set of markers;

• Set of cables;

• ScanCenter NG software ;

• Automatic rotary table;

• Protective travel case;

• Licence key (except NEO).

RV PRO standard set also includes replaceable optics for each scanning zone and a control computer (without I / O devices).

You can find information about resolution and accuracy of 3D scanner technical specification. These attributes depend on scanner model and scanning area. Specified values can be achieved by following calibration rules.

Calibration must be performed before the first scan and after changing a scan zone. 

The scanner can be de-calibrated under the influence of the heating and cooling cycles of cameras and a projector, as well as when you move it. Therefore, we recommend you perform a full calibration at the beginning of each working day and after the scanner has been turned off for a long time (> 2 hours).

Scanning in the open air is possible in the dark, subject to safety regulations. Scanning outdoors in daylight is not possible even in cloudy weather. Do not use the 3D scanner in conditions of high humidity, negative temperatures to avoid electric shock.

Yes, you can update ScanCenter and ScanMerge for free. We release updates every half-year. Every client get personal password to access download area, where we place new versions of RangeVision software.

We give a 2-year warranty on RV NEO and a 1-year warranty on RV PRO and Spectrum when you make a purchase from the official reseller.