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On the Holocreators Blog, you will find posts about 3D-scanning and reverse engineering. Post topics range from explanations and tutorials to art projects. We illuminate topics from various angles, often with video.

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Last updated: 01.08.2020
Explanation

IKEA closet repair with 3D scanning and 3D printing

We digitally repaired the broken clothes rail holder of an IKEA closet and then 3D-printed it in plastic. We first 3D-scanned the original broken part using a 3D CT scanner (computed tomography 3D scanner). Afterward, we reconstructed the 3D scan using reverse engineering and thus repaired it. The finished file was 3D-printed inside a laser sintering 3D printer.

Last updated: 01.08.2020
Explanation

Deviation analysis (nominal actual comparison)

We perform a deviation analysis in metrology to compare two 3D models with each other and to document the differences with a false color comparison. The analysis is mainly used in quality assurance to document reverse engineering deviations from the original 3D scan. If we compare the CAD data (nominal state) of a part with the 3D scan (actual state) of the same part, this is called a “nominal actual comparison”.

Last updated: 01.08.2020
Explanation

Lecture on 3D-scanning and spare parts

At an event at the Sustainable Design Center in Berlin, Swann Rack of Holocreators gave a short talk in November 2017. It was about the different 3D scanning techniques and how to use them in combination with 3D printing for reverse engineering.

Last updated: 15.06.2020
Tutorial

How to convert STL to STEP with free software?

Using free software, we can convert a 3D scan (STL) into a CAD format (STEP). This process is called reverse engineering. We will reconstruct a solid model based on a 3D scan. This is not an automatic process, but a manual reconstruction. For this tutorial, we will use Netfabb (version 7.4.0) or Netfabb (current version) to measure the 3D scan. And the current version of FreeCAD (free CAD software) to redesign the part in CAD.

Last updated: 15.06.2020
Product Review

Artec Space Spider 3D-Scanner Product Review

The Artec Space Spider is a handheld 3D scanner. The cameras on the front look like spider eyes— hence the name "Spider". The 3D scanner is very light and works with blue-structured light. It was developed primarily for 3D scanning smaller objects of between 5 and 30 cm. The manufacturer states the accuracy of the 3D scanner to be within 0.1mm-0.05 mm. Currently, the Artec Space Spider lists for about 20,000 Euro (23,626 USD).

Last updated: 15.06.2020
Tutorial

How to 3D scan for free?

You only need a mobile phone and some free software to create a free 3D scan. The technique is called photogrammetry. We 3D-scanned the same part twice—once for free and once with a professional 3D scanner—then compared both 3D scans. The result: The free 3D scan has a deviation of only about 0.2mm compared to the professional 3D scan.

Last updated: 15.06.2020
Product Review

Vitronic Vitus 3D body scanner Product Review

At Vitronic in Wiesbaden, we tested the 3D body scanner "Vitronic Vitus". This body scanner was developed primarily for the clothing industry to capture people’s body measurements quickly. Besides body measurements, this 3D scanner also captures color information, and thus, established itself for creating 3D figures.

Last updated: 12.06.2020
Product Review

Alicona InfiniteFocus 3D-Scanner Product Review

There is a niche field of forensics that deals specifically with crimes committed with firearms. Forensic ballistics, as this field is known, uses forensic techniques to analyze crimes perpetrated using firearms. The 3D scanner Alicona InfiniteFocus can be used for forensic ballistics. We made our way to Braunschweig to the company “a3Ds” to show how this can be done. By comparing 3Dscanned fired cartridges, we can match them to the rifles that fired them.

Please contact us if you need a 3D Scan or 3D Scan to CAD conversion (STL zu STEP)

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Estimated reading time: mins

Last updated: 10.06.2020
Art

Creating a 3D Zoetrope with 3D Scanning and 3D Printing

We created a 3D-printed 3D zoetrope to show the blossoming process of a flower. A real lily was 3Dscanned at various stages of bloom. From these 3D scans, we created a 3D animation. From the 3D animation, we 3D printed 15 lilies and arranged them on a round plate. We illuminated the rotating plate with a strobe light to create the illusion of blossoming lilies.

Estimated reading time: mins

Last updated: 12.06.2020
Product Review

Alicona InfiniteFocus 3D-Scanner Product Review

Estimated reading time: mins

Last updated: 08.06.2020
Explanation

Wire EDM for cutting metal 3D prints

Wire EDM is a process for cutting metal. It is used to cut metal 3D prints from their base plate. When 3D printing on metal, the printed part becomes one with the base plate on which it is printed. To separate the two without damaging the part, a precise cutting process is needed. This is where wire EDM shines.

Estimated reading time: mins

Last updated: 06.08.2020
Explanation

What Types of 3D Model Databases Are Available?

We have compiled a selection of 3D model databases. You can download 3D models and then edit them in a 3D program or 3D print them. There are databases with free 3D models and those that sell them.

Estimated reading time: mins

Last updated: 01.08.2020
Explanation

Reverse engineering and error propagation

Reverse engineering enables us to create a copy of an object. For this purpose, the part is 3Dscanned, then the 3D scan data is converted into a CAD format, and finally, the part is manufactured. All these steps result in noticeable deviations. If an error adds up over multiple steps, then we call this error propagation.

Estimated reading time: mins

Last updated: 15.06.2020
Product Review

Artec Space Spider 3D-Scanner Product Review

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Feel free to contact us for a personalized consultation for your individual project.”