How fast does a 3D scanner scan?3D scanner speed depends on the type of 3D scanner being used, as well as the size and complexity of the object in question and the required scan resolution. In reality, the rates of point capture vary based on the model, application, but the average range is 300,000 to 1 million points per second. As a matter of fact, high-end laser 3D scanners can go at some very impressive performance metrics: for example, the Leica RTC360 can scan at speeds of 2 million points per second, enabling the laser 3D scanner to cover big areas or complicated subjects in a much shorter time span than a lower-end model. In comparison, while a handheld scanner such as this Revopoint POP 3D scanner may only have a scan speed of 10 to 20 frames per second, these speeds are still fair for smaller projects or scanning in areas where there is limited space for the scanner to be maneuvered.
How fast is a 3D scanner also varies according to its resolution. The downside to high-res scanning is that gathering data takes longer; That is, you need to record more points that are going to need to be processed to generate an accurate 3D model. An example of this is that for a high-resolution scan of a detailed object, it will take 15–30 minutes, whereas for a low-resolution, it would take a few minutes. According to a study conducted by Engineering & Technology Review in 2019, while the process of scanning a medium-sized object (around 50-70 cm tall) using professional-grade 3D scanners can be as fast as 5 minutes, it can take up to 15 minutes depending on the required levels of detail for its surface.
3D scanning speed is the most important in construction or archaeology industry. In a case study performed by Cultural Heritage Projects, the team documented a historic building using the Faro Focus 3D scanner, completing a detailed 360-degree scan in only 20 minutes that included a region covering over 200 square meters. In construction, time efficiencies can translate into reduced overall project timeframes, with some projects achieving reductions in survey time of 40%.
Operating at a frame rate of up to 20 frames per second, the Revopoint POP 3D scanner strikes a good balance between speed and resolution, making this model the perfect solution for both professionals and hobbyists. “The real benefit of a 3D scanner is not simply the speed at which the imaging occurs; it is that very accurate data can be collected quickly and efficiently,” explains Dr. Jennifer Williams, an expert in digital modeling. This knack for speed and accuracy, is what really distinguishes the top 3D scanners from just any others that exist in the market.
The physical time spent in scanning also depends on the power of software used accompanying the scanner. Advanced algorithms to process data on the fly and reduce time spent on post-processing can deliver faster processing speeds with some scanners. For example, the Artec Eva, which is commonly used in automotive and manufacturing applications, captures and processes data in real time, enabling users to visualize their models nearly instantly after the scanning process ends.
At the end of the day, the speed of 3d scanner is an important consideration for a 3d scanning professional who has to find a balance between precision and efficiency. For those who need fast and reliable results, selecting the correct scanner with the required speed parameters greatly improves productivity and workflows.