3D scanning with limited resources

Created Date: 2025-03-07/ updated date: 2025-03-08
    Owner & Collaborators
    License
    3D scanning with limited resources by Savinu is licensed under the Creative Commons - Attribution license.
    Summary
    This is to share my experience in 3D scanning with an iPhone using the Polycam app. This project covers what to focus on and a few tricks we can use for scanning with limited resources.

    Materials

      Tools

        Blueprints

          Making

          • Prerequisites

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            You need to have polycam app installed in your phone.
            We used iPhone 13 as the primary device for scanning. Other than that as equipment, we used masking tape, a Vernier calliper and a scissor. 

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              • About app

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                We were thinking about buying a cheap 3D scanner because industrial-level scanners are expensive. But while doing a small research we realized that we could get the same results close to the budget scanner by using Polycam app. It provides lots of features but we used only the free version

                Comments

                • Free version is enough?

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                  Yes, it works great but has only a limited number of scans but it gave us good results. Reading this would stop you from  wasting a free attempt : ))

                  Comments

                  • Method of scanning

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                    The 3D model is created using images captured of the object. We can take up to 150 photos, so it's important to ensure that all surfaces of the model are covered within that limit. The method we used involved slowly rotating the phone around the object while the app automatically took the photos.

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                  • Conditions you should maintain

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                    1. The object should be lighted well and evenly.
                    2. It should be in a position where you can get a clear view from every angle.
                    3, Should stay steady while capturing the object.
                    4. should maintain the same light condition throughout the scanning process.

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                      • Objectives

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                        We got a project from our senior to make him a side mirror for his car which is a Honda Civic ES8. Due to an accident, the right side mirror of the car was broken. So we are trying to make a new cover for the mirror using 3d printing at a much lower cost.

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                        • 1st attempt

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                            • Problem Identification

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                              We need to know that because of the reflection of the glossy surface, the object may not look the same in every photo taken during the scanning process, and therefore, it may not be able to generate the object. So we need to avoid the reflection.

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                              • Potential Solutions

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                                We found out there are a few ways to avoid this.
                                1. Applying a spray paint to the surface 
                                2. Using a chalk spray (need to wash after scanning )
                                3. There are available sprays that are specially used for 3d scanning and they evaporate after some time(Expensive)
                                4. Using masking tape.

                                Comments

                                • Our approach and reason

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                                  We decided to go with the masking tape option since it is easily accessible and affordable. 
                                  Had a doubt of using it.
                                  But the results were stunning. 

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                                • Steps Forward

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                                  The scanned model should be tweaked further using manual editing. Of course, we need to smoothen the surfaces since we used masking tape. But still this is a very cheap but effective method to get a 3d scan. 

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                                    • Remarks

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                                      This project shares my experience. I'm not a professional 3D scanner yet, but I aim to share knowledge and raise awareness of this project is dedicated to sharing my personal experiences with 3D scanning technology. My goal is to provide valuable insights based on what I have learned so far.

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                                        References

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                                            Project comments

                                            • No.001mikasaPosted date: 2025-03-22
                                              Hi Xavinu, I am Chill Guy Game owner What challenges do you face when creating 3D scans with limited resources, and how do you overcome them?