With the rapid development of modern digital manufacturing technologies, 3D scanning and 3D printing have become important tools for creating personalized and unique items. Particularly for creating personalized 3D figurines, the use of full-body scanners has enabled people to materialize their own images, pets, and through 3D printing technology. However, despite the power of 3D scanning and 3D printing technology itself, post-processing is an important step in ensuring that the final artifact results meet expectations.
I. Full-body 3D scanners and 3D printing: opening the door to personalization
The process of using a full body 3D scanner to create a 3D figurine begins with a scan. With a full-body scanner, users can quickly capture 3D data about themselves, including details such as facial features, body shape, and pose. The process usually takes only a few seconds and does not require any contact. The scanning is highly accurate and can faithfully reproduce the details of the figure.
The digital data from the scan is usually a point cloud or mesh model. This model contains a great deal of spatial information, but is still a raw digital file that requires further processing before it can be used for 3D printing.
II. Importance of post-processing
While scans provide a wealth of detail, this data is not always directly suitable for 3D printing. Post-processing plays a crucial role in the process, which includes the following aspects:
- Cleaning and repairing scanned models
Some missing or irregular parts may appear during the scanning process, especially during dynamic scanning or unstable poses. To ensure the integrity of the scanned model, cleanup and repair work is required at a later stage. For example, the scanned model may have holes, overlaps or unwanted noise that need to be repaired by 3D modeling software.
- Remove the support
When printing a model, supports are auxiliary materials used to support overhanging parts. Removing these supports is a delicate process that often requires tools to carefully remove the support structure to avoid damaging the model.
- Ultrasonic cleaning model
Ultrasonic cleaning is a highly efficient cleaning method that thoroughly cleans the surface of the model of residues, especially residual resin or support materials used in the printing process, through the action of bubbles generated by high-frequency vibrations. This method ensures that the surface of the model is free of impurities, which helps in subsequent surface treatment and curing.
- UV light irradiation cures the model
UV curing is an important step for models printed with photosensitive resins. By shining a UV light on the resin surface, it cures quickly, increasing its hardness and strength while ensuring that the shape and detail of the model is maintained.
- Apply oil to add bright color
Oil coating is a surface treatment technique that enhances the glossy and shiny surface of a 3D model. Specialized surface coatings or oils are usually used, which not only enhances the visual appearance of the model, but also provides an extra layer of protection and increased durability.
III. Summing up
From 3D scanning to 3D printing, post-processing is an inevitable part of the process, which is not only related to the quality of the final hand puppet, but also the overall experience of the user. From cleaning up the model and optimizing the mesh to fine sculpting and coloring, every detail plays an important role in creating a unique custom hand puppet.
Whether as a gift, souvenir, or personal collection, through the combination of 3D scanning and post-processing, you will be able to create 3D figurines that are truly your own, highly personalized and documentary. It is this personalization and customization that makes 3D scanning and 3D printing technology a new way to create art and personalized mementos.
If you would like to create your own 3D figurines, why not start your journey of personalized creation with our full body scanning service?
