Three-Dimensional Immersion Scanning Technique: A Scalable Low-Cost Solution for 3D Scanning Using Water-Based Fluid.

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Physics

Background:

• Traditional 3D scanning methods in medical and engineering fields can be costly and technically limited.
• Existing technologies like CT scanners and optical scanners present significant instrumentation and financial barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an affordable three-dimensional (3D) scanning technique utilizing fluid immersion and object rotation.
• To present a cost-effective alternative to conventional 3D scanning technologies.

Main Methods:

• Objects were submerged in a water-based fluid (water and Xanthan gum) within a container.
• A stepper motor controlled the object's rotation and measured fluid displacement to reconstruct the 3D shape.
• The reconstruction process is analogous to CT scanning but with simplified instrumentation.

Main Results:

• The fluid immersion 3D scanning technique proved feasible for various object sizes, including those with complex geometries.
• Precision analysis showed statistical similarity between a 3D printed model and its reconstructed image, with overlapping margins of error.
• The signal-to-noise ratio was measured at approximately 6 dB, indicating acceptable data quality.

Conclusions:

• The developed low-cost 3D scanning method is a viable option for creating 3D models, particularly for objects with irregular shapes or openings.
• Further research is recommended to optimize parameters and enhance the performance of this promising technique.