Structured Light 3D Scanners
What is a Structured Light 3D Scanner? A structured light 3D scanner is a non-contact metrology instrument that calculates the three-dimensional shape of an object using projected light patterns and camera sensors. By projecting a sequence of precisely calibrated fringes—typically using LED or laser sources—onto a physical part, the scanner’s cameras measure the geometric deformation of the light. Software then processes these optical distortions via trigonometric triangulation to generate a high-density, dimensionally accurate point cloud or CAD-ready mesh.
The data acquisition rate is exceptionally high. Modern systems capture millions of points per second. This yields metrology-grade volumetric accuracy, routinely hitting tolerances of 0.02 millimetres or better, depending on the calibrated field of view. Industrial-grade scanners counter this environmental noise by utilising narrow-band blue light projection and integrated polarising filters. This guarantees clean, repeatable data capture, even when scanning challenging metallic or dark substrates.
Desktop 3D scanners provide a stable, controlled environment for high-precision digitisation of small to medium components. Unlike handheld systems, fixed scanners utilise automated turntables and structured light arrays to achieve superior resolution and repeatable accuracy. From the educational accessibility of the EinScan series to the metrology-grade performance of the OptimScan Q, our stationary suite is designed for reverse engineering, quality control, and dental or industrial inspection.
Desktop Metrology: Precision through Stability
Stationary scanning eliminates the variable of operator movement, allowing for the capture of fine geometric features that are often lost in handheld workflows. By leveraging fixed focal lengths and industrial-grade lenses, our desktop scanners deliver sub-0.05 mm accuracy, providing the reliable data foundation necessary for parametric CAD reconstruction and GD&T verification.
The EinScan Series: Redefining the Desktop Standard
The EinScan-SE V2 and EinScan-SP V2 are the global benchmarks for accessible desktop scanning. The SE V2 offers an intuitive entry point for education and rapid prototyping, while the SP V2 provides the higher accuracy (0.05 mm) and turntable-coded alignment required for professional engineering. Both systems integrate seamlessly with the EXScan S software, facilitating a direct pathway from physical part to watertight mesh.
AutoScan-Inspec: Fully Automated Small-Part Metrology
The AutoScan-Inspec is a metrology-grade desktop system featuring a sophisticated 3-axis robotic turntable. Engineered for the inspection of complex, small-scale components, it achieves a single-shot accuracy of 0.01 mm. This system is specifically designed to eliminate the 'blind spots' of traditional stationary scanners, providing 360-degree coverage for intricate parts like fuel injectors, electrical connectors, and precision gears.
OptimScan Q Series: Laboratory-Grade Inspection
For the most demanding metrology applications, the OptimScan Q Series (including the Q3 and Q5) delivers industrial-tier performance. Utilising narrow-band blue light technology and high-resolution industrial lenses, it captures high-fidelity data even on dark or reflective surfaces. The series features a modular design with interchangeable lenses, allowing users to switch between field-of-view (FOV) configurations to maintain sub-0.01 mm accuracy across varying part sizes.
