How can you clean up 3D scan data for 3D modeling software?

Cleaning up 3D scans is crucial because raw scan files often contain elements and imperfections due to the limitations of the scanning process. These issues might include parts of the environment, noise, holes, or surface artifacts that must be removed or corrected to make the model accurate and usable. By cleaning the data, you can refine the geometry, ensure a smoother and more realistic appearance, and prepare it for downstream applications, like 3D printing, reverse engineering, or inspection. Softwares like Meshmixer, PoinKit, MeshLab, and Geomagic are commonly used in this process, allowing for precise control over filling gaps, smoothing surfaces, and removing unwanted details, ultimately resulting in a high-quality, usable 3D model.

As far as my understanding goes, raw scan data in 3D experiences often contains numerous artifacts. When scanning objects, such as hard surfaces, one can observe bumpiness and unevenness. Although organic scans can be adjusted to some extent, 3D scan data must be as perfect as the real object. There are several tools available for cleaning such data, including ZBrush, Blender, Maya, Meshmixer, and Mudbox. These tools enable us to refine and generate masterpieces from raw 3D scans. I have been involved in the 3D scan data pipeline for 8 years now, and I find it both playful and enjoyable

I used to visit a Additive manufacturing unit there they scan the components through a 3D scanner sticking some dot stickers to join them after scanning. Geomagic software is used for cleaning the scanned parts.

There is no specific way to choose software for 3D scan cleaning, it depends on your familiarity and skill with the software. For instance, if you know ZBrush and come across a video of someone cleaning in Blender, don't feel compelled to follow them. Stick with your known software, as it will give you the confidence to achieve better results. All software fundamentally operates with brushes and tools for tasks like rotating, scaling, and positioning. However, each software has its own export formats. Common formats include OBJ and FBX, both supported by industry-standard software. Sometimes, in segments like 3D printing, relevant software such as Meshmixer, MeshLab, or ZBrush may be necessary.

Choosing the right 3D scan cleaning software depends on your specific application needs and the type of project you’re working on. First, consider compatibility with your file formats, as not all software supports every format. Look for key features like the ability to remove unwanted data, rotate, scale, and align data; tools for noise reduction, hole repair, and surface smoothing; and mesh optimization, especially if reducing polygon count is important for your workflow. If you're experienced with a certain software, sticking with it might yield the best results.

When scanning an object, it often contains artifacts and unwanted mesh. Additionally, the mesh may not align with the grid and coordinate system. If the mesh is not aligned in software such as RealityCapture or Agisoft Metashape, it must be cleaned using tools like ZBrush, Blender, or Maya. The process involves selecting and deleting unwanted mesh using selection tools and aligning it to the grid and coordinate system using rotation tools

If we opt for ZBrush, it's a trending tool for cleaning up 3D raw scans. It has a "Close Hole" feature that's very easy to use with just one click. However, it depends on the mesh density; if you have a high-resolution mesh, it may crash. But if it works, the results will be perfect, and noise, also known by various terms like bumpiness or uneven surface, can be addressed. Every software has this feature, often referred to as a smooth brush, for fixing bumpiness or uneven surfaces, which can yield excellent results if used with precision. We can explore other options like Meshmixer, Blender, or Maya depending on your skills and familiarity.

When discussing optimizing the cleaning of 3D scan data, the trending terms include feature decimation and retopology, enabling us to optimize the models for any platform, whether it be for 3D printing. Indeed, AR and VR are primarily for visualization. Subsequently, the models can be exported as per requirements; for 3D printing, we mainly use STL, WRL, and 3MF formats, while AR and VR visualization formats include GLB and GLTF. Additionally, we can export through Blender software, but aside from this, there are also OBJ and FBX formats available.