Glossary → 3D scanning
3D scanning
Definition
3D scanning is digitising an existing physical object into an accurate 3D model. A scanner captures the shape as a mesh, in 2D or 3D, with no drawing needed.
It's the basis for reproducing an object, preserving it digitally or redrawing it. The object itself is the source — handy precisely when no drawing or supplier exists anymore.
Related terms
- Reverse engineering — Reverse engineering is turning an existing object back into an editable digital model.
- STL file — An STL file is the most common file format for 3D printing.