Artec 3D scanner uses AI to process raw 3D data.
Artec 3D is a developer and manufacturer of professional 3D hardware and software. They’ve recently unveiled the Artec Leo, a smart handheld 3D scanner that captures up to 80 frames per second (FPS).
The scanner includes Autopilot — an AI-based feature within the Artec Studio 11 software that automatically processes raw 3D data into high-quality 3D models.
This feature enables the 3D scanner to autonomously select and process data onboard, without connecting to a tablet or computer.
On Artec Leo’s multi-touch, half HD screen, a user can watch while their object is digitized into a full-colour 3D model in real time, simplifying the scanning process.
“Artec Leo embodies the next wave of the 3D scanning industry,” said Artyom Yukhin, president and CEO of Artec 3D. “It is intuitive, mobile, and using our AI algorithms, it captures and automatically processes huge amounts of data, all on a single device that requires minimal training to master. Leo’s next-generation platform is a massive breakthrough in the industry and we intend to build upon this success to expand our line of smart 3D scanners. Our goal is to make professional 3D scanning as easy as shooting video for any industry and the Artec Leo is the next big step in achieving that goal.”
Users can bring the scanner closer to particular areas of interest to pick up intricate details with a 3D point accuracy of 0.1 mm. Thus, the Artec Leo can digitize a range of forms and sizes, from a small mechanical part to a large forensics scene.
Built on the NVIDIA Jetson platform, the Artec Leo processes large volumes of 3D data onboard. This enables the device to understand the difference between the object being scanned, the surface it is on and the wall behind it so that it can automatically erase the unwanted data.
“Our Jetson embedded computing platform pushes the limits of visual and AI computing and, through our work with Artec, real-time 3D capture, modeling and visualization is now possible in a handheld scanner,” said Lazaar Louis, product management lead for Tegra and business development for VR/AR products at NVIDIA.
Using a proprietary, two-in-one optics system, with a 3D camera and colour camera combined as one, the Artec Leo has a precision in texture mapping at a resolution of 2.3 mp.
High-quality geometry is also achieved, thanks to the use of a VCSEL light source, which captures objects in bright, outside conditions.
A flash system can adjust based on the surrounding light conditions for better 3D capture. This also enables users to scan in 3D HDR, making it easier to capture tricky objects, such as those that are black or have shiny areas.
While the user can see the scan on the Artec Leo’s screen, it can also be streamed to other devices, such as tablets or laptops.
Additional battery modules can also be purchased for unlimited 3D scanning in areas with no available power supply. Once scans are completed, data can be uploaded to a computer with a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, or directly to the cloud.