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Structured light vs other 3D scanning methods

estés

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Jul 15, 2025
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I'm assisting a fabrication client with digitizing steel forming rolls using 3D scanning, and so far... we have been getting some weird results from a structured light scanner (Artec Spider). The surfaces come out a little warped and the dimensions are off by up to 0.8 mm from hand measurements. I know it's technically not much but it's not acceptable for precision work. It's not accurate at all, too. I'd appreciate a breakdown of pros/cons between structured light, laser, and photogrammetry in terms of accuracy and repeatability. We're working on cylindrical parts so it would be best if you have some tips specifically for those.
 
Structured light scanners like the Artec Spider just aren't ideal for cylindrical, reflective parts, laser scanning usually delivers better accuracy and consistency on curved metal surfaces, might be time to switch tech
 
If I may add, you can spray a dull coating on the rolls to cut down on shine, and turn the roll little by little to avoid mix-ups with the shape. Also, check your setup and lighting bec structured light scanners don't work well if those aren't just right.
 
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