What Is Structured Light Scanning?

Artec Eva enters a new dimension of structured light scanning. Thanks to the use of technology, it is now possible for the first time to visualize measurement results directly on site.

Previously, when using the structured light scanning method, the result significantly depended on the characteristics of the surface of the measured object. Color and reflectivity had a great influence on the quality of the data obtained and the measurement results. In this case, the digital adaptive full color projection technology used in Artec Eva allows you to adjust the color and intensity to best match the characteristics of the surface of the object.

This technology makes it possible to project onto the surface of an object not only the color pattern required for scanning, but also the obtained measurement results.

This makes it possible, for example, to produce color visualization of deviations from the mathematical model directly on the surface of the measured object.

This procedure opens up completely new possibilities for the user in the workflow, for example, in the production of molds and tooling, with the help of technology, all deviations of the surfaces of components can be quickly and accurately measured and viewed. Based on the projected deviation data, it is also possible to quickly correct the object on the spot.

Over the past few years, 3D scanning technology has become more accessible, bringing new scanning equipment to the market.

Although Artec Eva was originally released back in 2012, the Luxembourg based 3D scanner remains one of the most popular on the professional market. Priced at $19,299, this white light scanner is a little pricey for consumers, but its portability and incredible accuracy make it ideal for a wide range of applications, from the automotive industry to the reconstruction of historical artifacts and beyond.

As the flagship model in the Artec 3D scanning product line, Artec Eva is a full color 3D scanner that captures small to medium sized objects in high resolution. Few hardware manufacturers have been able to take advantage of this opportunity to compete with Eva in the professional grade handheld scanner sector.

So, with that said, let’s take a look at the features, specifications, and features associated with the Artec Eva 3D Scanner.

Artec Eva 3D Scanner – Specifications Overview

Using structured light scanning technology, this device is easy and safe to use. The scanner is ideal for capturing small to medium sized objects such as automotive components, medical devices and really any physical object you can imagine.

Unlike other common 3D scanning systems, Artec Eva does not require the use of markers or calibration, which means it essentially functions as a 3D video camera. There is no need for additional hardware, just start the system and start scanning. In fact, with only a tablet and a battery, this 3D scanner can be used in places where there is not even a source of electricity.

Artec Eva is capable of capturing up to 16 frames per second, each of which is automatically aligned in real time. This makes the whole 3D scanning process very easy and fast, even for objects with a black or shiny surface (since both tend to be problematic for many other 3D scanners). 

In terms of scan quality, Artec Eva can capture with high accuracy down to 0.1mm and resolution up to 0.5mm, providing the user with scans that contain some of the most complex object details. This system also offers exceptional scanning speed, capturing up to 2 million points in one second. In addition, the ability to capture objects in color also improves the quality of the scan and the resulting 3D model.

The hardware is equipped with only two buttons: one to start and pause the scanner, and the other to completely stop the process. It also has an LED indicator that shows users whether they are in standby, preview or recording mode.

Since this system is lightweight, fully portable, and able to capture relatively large objects, the tasks it can be used for are basically limitless. Industries that commonly use 3D scanning technologies include automotive, aerospace, medical, forensics, arts, heritage preservation, video game development, and more.

Equally important to the 3D scanner is the Artec Studio 13 software, which helps process, edit and prepare the image taken with Artec Eva. This program offers two scanning modes.

The default mode collects raw scan data, showing a preview of the current progress so that the user can track the progress of the scan. Users can seamlessly pause scans to explore captured data, allowing them to revisit parts of missed objects. Finally, after capturing the digital scan, the Artec software will process it and create a 3D mesh.

Another model includes Real-Time Fusion (RTF), which automatically creates a 3D mesh during the scanning process. In this particular mode, the geometric mesh becomes available instantly, which reduces the overall processing time.

The Artec Eva truly is one of the best handheld 3D scanners on the market, even six years after its original release. It seems that there are problems when scanning small objects. It seems that the quality of certain geometries and textures is not detailed enough when the object is smaller than an adult’s shoes. Otherwise, the impression of Artec Eva is mostly positive.

Of course, another potential pitfall of this 3D scanner is the price. While Artec Eva offers higher scan quality and a better overall ecosystem than, say, Einscan-Pro or Sense 2, these 3D scanners cost a lot less money. Therefore, Eva is best suited for professional users.