Why don't EinScan files work with my CAD software?
The EinScan exports mesh data (STL.OBJ. PLY. etc.…), which are composed of a large number of triangles (polygons). Traditional CAD software reads parasolid files (IGES, STEP/STP etc.…), which are composed of a set of shapes that are mathematically defined. Therefore, CAD software interprets a mesh as a very large number of planes. Often the direct conversion from mesh to CAD format is limited to small files.
The transformation from mesh to CAD data is called Reverse Engineering. The mesh is imported into the CAD interface and is used as a visual or matching reference for the construction of the CAD model.
Solid Edge SHINING 3D edition is bundled with EinScan for this purpose. SHINING 3D has developed partnerships with multiple software companies providing Reverse Engineering solutions among them, Solid Edge, Rhino & mesh2surface, DesignX, and Geomagic for Solidworks.
How can I scan dark objects?
Once you are at the optimal working distance, increase the brightness until some data is captured. Keep in mind, however, that with higher brightness settings, more noise will be captured.
If your object is both dark and bright, turn on HDR, the scan will take more time but contrasting data will be captured.
For a better result you can, prior to scanning, apply some spray on the surface:
- Scan spray for metrology applications applies an extremely thin layer, so the object’s shape is not affected.
- DIY solution: flour or baby powder can work too.
How to scan a very thin object?
Thin objects are very tricky as you can have interference between the 2 faces, causing a misalignment of data. It is recommended to use markers (SP only) to improve the accuracy between successive scans.
How to post-process the data? Fill more holes, erase some of the scan?
EinScan software mesh editor offers:
- Watertight or Unwatertight model
- Simplification (decimate the mesh)
For Unwatertight: Fill holes respecting curvature, up to 100mm perimeter, and fill markers holes (SP only) Sharpen and Smooth option
Brightness and contrast of the texture
For more options, on those or other features, we recommend meshlab or meshmixer (both free software) or Geomagic Wrap (paid professional grade software)
Where is the Autoscan mode?
We have merge fixed and auto scan mode into “scan”. If the turntable is plugged, check/uncheck the box “With turntable” to enable /disable it, the turntable settings will show (turntable step, SP: alignment condition). If the turntable is not plugged in, go back to the home menu before re-opening the project.
EinScan-SP: How to choose the alignment condition?
Coded target: Is most convenient, if the object is small enough to not cover the encoded targets on the turntable.
On every step of the turntable, the scanner recognizes common targets on the turntable to calculate the new position of the object. At least 4 common targets need to be recognized between 2 successive scans.
Feature: Feature alignment is best used when the object is too big for the turntable coded target alignment and you do not want to or cannot stick markers on it. With feature alignment the software recognizes features on 3 successive preliminary scans then calculates the position of the turntable. the scans are matched by knowing the center and angle of rotation between successive captures.
Objects with too simple of features such as a flat surface, symmetrical surfaces like spheres, cylinder, and circular patterns are not recommended for this mode. Better to use markers to facilitate the alignment.
Marker or global markers: When the object is too big for the turntable coded target alignment and can accept markers. Marker alignment works in a similar way of turntable coded target alignment; the software matches 2 successive scans by recognizing at least 4 common markers.