Matter and Form MFS1V1 3D Scanner Background
While 3D print enthusiasts have access to well over one million project models available online for little or no cost, you may not find CAD drawings for personally created or owned items. In this instance, designers and engineers benefit from owning a 3D print scanner. The Matter and Form 3D scanner is a popular tool for the job. In addition to being affordable, the portable device is highly user friendly.
Adam Brandejs and Drew Cox are the two designers who originally founded the company. The men developed the idea to create the product after searching for a 3D scanner within their budget and discovered that one did not exist. While initially manufactured for designers, the pair soon gained the interest from a diverse group of people that included educators, engineers, gamers and hobbyists. Positive Matter and Form Review providers include a game developer affiliated with the Oculus Rift project who used the device to scan landscape items for his sci-fi virtual reality game entitled “iO Moon.”
Matter and Form 3D Scanner Basics
Anyone performing research on 3D scanner reviews will be hard pressed to find a more highly rated device with similar functionality and price than the Matter and Form unit. Sleek and compact in appearance, the scanner measures 4.3 x 11.9 x 21 inches unfolded and weighs a mere 6.7 pounds. Not unlike a miniature waffle iron, the scanner folds in half for a respectable footprint measuring just 3.5 inches x 8.35 inches x 13.5 inches. The handle at the top of the scanner clicks open to unfold the device. The handle then folds down under the unit to create a leg to level and stabilize the scanner.
Set-up requires plugging the Matter and Form 3D scanner USB 2.0 cable into the device and a wall socket. Another cable connects the unit with a laptop or desktop computer. Once connected, users venture to the Matter and Form website to download the appropriate software. The software is compatible with Windows 7+ in 32 or 64 bit versions and in Mac OS x 10.9+. The PC must have a CPU rated at i5 or better and at least 4GB of RAM for file storage.
Scanning Capability
Equipped with an HD CMOS sensor and two lasers situated on an adjustable Z-axis, the device capably scans items up to 11.5 inches wide x 9.25 inches high on a revolving, seven-inch turntable. The scanner captures images at a rate of 2,000 points per second and at a resolution rate as small as 0.43 millimeters. The files created print objects within 0.25 millimeters of the original size. Users also have the ability to adjust the scanning detail level. On the lowest resolution, scans are completed in about seven minutes. On high resolution, the project completes in up to 45 minutes. Once completed, the image is saved on either an .OBJ, .PLY or .STL file. Users can import the files directly to Blender, Maya, Max or other brands of 3D printing software.
Though according to the user manual, the scanner comes calibrated, a 3D scanner review reveals that users achieve optimal results by calibrating the device before each scan. Starting a scan simply requires placing an object on the turn table and pushing the scan button. After completing a scan, use the Save Now option, which stores the image in the MFC format. In this way, if a software glitch should occur, you will not have the hassle of having to rescan. Then clean up the image as needed and save in the desired file system. For the best scan results, the object must be adequately lit and not have a semi-gloss or high-gloss surface. Be wary of background images that might distort the scan. If possible, place some type of white backdrop behind the object.
3D Scanner Customer Service
The team at Matter and Form stand behind the product and are willing to offer assistance to consumers having difficulty with scans or operations. They readily offer free tutorials in addition to providing tips and tricks in order to get the highest quality images. Customer service representatives also offer advice concerning compatible 3D print software and printers.
All in all, whether a hobbyist desiring to enhance your CAD file portfolio or a professional looking for a quick and easy method for creating CAD renderings, the 3D scanner from Matter and Form is an investment worth considering.
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