Emerging Technology

Einstar 3D Scanner is a handheld 3D scanner that is used to create high-precision 3D models of real-world objects of any size. It captures clear scan data and generate stable outputs both indoors and outdoors. The Einstar can output data in a variety of formats and is compatible with 3D printers and 3D design software. It has a built-in RGB colour camera that can capture accurate 3D data with true colours.

Uses of a 3D Scanner 

3D scanners are widely used in many industries like art and design, engineering, and healthcare. Since they are capable of capturing data quickly and precisely, they have been employed to create visual effects for movies, to develop characters for video games and to retrofit heavy machinery They have also been used for designing customized prosthetic devices, for digitalizing museum collections for archiving and for sharing collections with a wider audience, and even used for creating 3D printed selfies. 

How does it work?

The scanning process comprises of using the 3D scanner to make a digital representation the physical object and using the 3D scanning software to create high resolution and textured 3D models.

Book the Einstar 3D Scanner to use in the Makerspace for up to 2 hours per day. 

• If you have never used the Einstar 3D Scanner before: Visit the library makerspace to sign a Makerspace Equipment Use Agreement and gain booking privileges. 
• If you have used the Einstar 3D Scanner before, please check the availability and then please book the Einstar 3D Scanner online at the Progress Library.
• For optimum results, also book the Makerspace Recording Studio to use the 3D Scanner in. 

• Either book the Progress Library Makerspace to use the Einstar 3D Scanner with the Makerspace Laptop or use the Scanner with your own laptop by creating a user account, downloading the required software and completing calibration process. Ensure your laptop has the following recommended system requirements:
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-11800H and above
    Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX1060 and above
    Graphics Memory: 6GB and above
    RAM: 32GB and above
    USB: 2.0 and above
    Operating System: Windows 10 / Windows 11 (both 64-bit only)
• Read the Einstar Quick Start Guide for an overview of the process, which includes:
  • Online registration for a user account - password.shining3d.com
  • Downloading the Software - support.einstar.com (for personal devices only)
  • Connecting the scanner to the laptop/desktop
  • Reviewing the scanning requirements 
  • Creating a user account or logging in with the Makerspace account 
  • Following the Calibration and White Balance procedures
  • Watch this video to learn how to place the markers for a successful scan. Learn more about using markers with a variety of objects. 
  • Creating your scan.
• Watch this Einstar 3D Scanner training guide video.
• The 3D scanner has a standard camera thread and thus can be used with most of these tripods.  
• If you would like to 3D print your scans, please save the scan as a .STL file and follow the submission instructions on the 3D Printing in the Libraries webpage to print your 3D model.