One name stands out in the ever-evolving landscape of 3D scanning and modeling technology: Mike Annear, the founder of Scan2Model. With a career spanning over two decades, Mike has been at the forefront of the 3D scanning revolution. His journey began in 2000 when he played a pivotal role in creating a 3D model from a point cloud for the Western Australian Police’s crash and crime scene investigation.
Remarkably, 3D scanning technology itself has only been available commercially since about 1995, and Mike’s experience from its early days highlights the extraordinary advancements witnessed over the years.
He shared in an interview, “In 2000, the 3D scanner was a huge, heavy tripodmounted box run by very large car batteries and took over half an hour to do one scan. It cost over $250,000.” This underscores the significant strides made in terms of affordability, portability, and efficiency in the realm of 3D scanning.
Scan2Model specializes in converting point cloud data into detailed and accurate 3D models, using Rhino 3D as a key software. Mike emphasized, “Rhino 3D is relatively cheap for full-blown modeling software that can handle large point clouds.”
The workflow begins with importing point clouds into Rhino 3D. Mike employs a variety of tools, such as a mobile construction plane and clipping planes, to effectively maneuver through the data and generate sections for subsequent modeling.
Mike described his approach: “My primary tools in Rhino involve the mobile construction plane, which is linked to two clipping planes. This functionality allows me to seamlessly navigate the point cloud, producing sections applicable in Lofting, curve networks, etc.” This detailed methodology guarantees that the resulting 3D models boast aesthetic appeal and precision.
Scan2Model caters to a diverse range of industries, including crash investigation, engineering, construction, architecture, and marine refits. Mike’s expertise extends beyond providing 3D modeling services; he also empowers clients by teaching them how to navigate the challenges of working with raw point cloud or mesh data.
Looking to the future, Mike acknowledges the ongoing advancements in 3D scanning technology, citing the reduction in physical size, increased speed, and accuracy of measured points. He humorously contemplates the potential impact of AI, acknowledging that automatic 3D models generated from images and videos might become commonplace.
Mike Annear and Scan2Model exemplify the transformative journey of 3D scanning technology. From the cumbersome devices of the early 2000s to the handheld, affordable scanners of today, coupled with the power of Rhino 3D, Scan2Model continues to revolutionize the creation of 3D models from point cloud data, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
