Discovery Corner - 3D Scanning Services

• Overview
• Scanners available
• Locations of the scanners
• Terms of Services
• Enquiries

Overview

As part of our effort to support the University’s DEC initiative and to encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration, the Library is now introducing 3D scanning services. The objective is to foster creativity, scholarly research among CityU staff and students. 3D scanner analyses a real-world object or environment to collect data on its shape and possibly its appearance. The data so collected can be used to construct digital three-dimensional models. The Library provides two types of 3D scanners. Explore and try out your new ideas using these scanners!

Discovery Corner@CityU Library: 3D & VR services

3D Scanners available

Handheld 3D Scanner

Laser & LED 3D Scanner iPad Pro Scanner (LiDAR)

EinScan HX - Hybrid Blue Laser & LED Light Source Handheld 3D Scanner [Seat: 901]

The EinScan HX handheld 3D scanner by SHINING 3D integrates blue LED light and blue laser to make it suitable for a wider range of object sizes, with high efficiency and reliable results.

• It integrates blue LED light blue laser for improved adaptability and compatibility with a wider range of object sizes and materials.
• LED light scanning is faster, while laser scanning is more accurate and better suited for reflective or dark-colored surfaces.
• It has a high resolution and accuracy, with a minimum point distance of 0.05 mm and accuracy up to 0.04 mm under laser scan.
• It has a processing speed of up to 1,200,000 points/s, making it suitable for rapid scanning of most objects in minutes.
• It is designed for a range of industrial applications, including reverse engineering, quality control, and inspection.
• More information: https://www.einscan.com/einscan-hx/

iPad Pro Scanner (LiDAR)

• Model: iPad Pro 12.9" (A2378) (https://support.apple.com/kb/SP844)
• 3D scan using LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) technology, which bounces laser light off an object to gauge distance and depth in order to form a 3D scan.
• Pros: Stand-alone 3D scanning (no need a nearby PC)
• Cons: Quality is fine only
• More information: https://all3dp.com/2/how-does-a-lidar-3d-scanner-work-simply-explained/

Desktop 3D Scanner

The advanced desktop 3D scanner is equipped with the following features:

• Multi-functional, Capture 3D Data Easier and Faster
• Dual scan modes: Auto Scan and Fixed Scan
• Wide scan range from small to large.
• High accuracy of 0.05mm for each scan.
• Time needed for a single scan: 4 s
• Time needed for a 360-degree scan under auto-scan mode: 1 min
• Max Scan Volume: 200x200x200mm (Auto Scan) or 1200x1200x1200mm (Fixed Scan)
• Auto meshing to watertight 3D data, providing high quality 3D data for 3D printer, which can be printed by 3D printer directly
• Provide API access service for any brand 3D printers

* For object with dark, shiny or clear surface, the scanning results may not be good. Please contact us for more information.

Locations of the scanners

The Handheld 3D scanners are available at the IT Help Desk.

Terms of Services

• 3D Scanners are free for use by all CityU students, staff of programmes leading to CityU awards including associate degree, bachelor's degree and postgraduate degree.
• The Handheld Scanner must be checked out and returned to the IT Help Desk during service hours.
• Reservations are limited to a maximum of 8 hours per week.
• Bookings can be made up to 5 days in advance.
• To ensure fair access to all eligible users, the Scanners are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
• 3D Scanners are used only for lawful purposes. No one will be permitted to use the Library’s 3D scanner to create digital objects that are against the law, obscene, in violation of another’s intellectual property rights.
• All scanner requests are subject to approval based on scheduling and availability. The Library reserves the right to refuse any 3D scanning requests for any reason.
• The scanning time depends on the number of scans and the object size and it may be time consuming. The Library cannot guarantee a specific scanning time, however, the user can consult the Library colleague at IT Help Desk for an estimated time.
• Only designated Library staff will have hands-on access to the 3D scanners.

Enquiries

Technical support session

For setting up a technical support session, patrons can either send an email message to libemt@cityu.edu.hk at least 3 working days in advance, or go to IT Help Desk in-person to schedule a technical support session.

Technical support session Hours

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday (except public and University holidays)