3D scanning programs can be more than just a lesson on 3D printing — they can actually be fun! They are also simple to run with the right equipment. You can use a piece of paper and an app, the MergeCube, or go more detailed with a portable or desktop scanner.
Plan out your program in advance, and be sure that you have everything you need. It might be helpful to make a list of the equipment you will need in advance and create an action plan for the program. You might want to create a list of 3D scanning basics and tips for participants so that they understand how the technology works, and how best to scan an object.
Scan, edit, and view your favorite outdoor object: Great for children and young teens! Take a nature walk with a portable 3D scanner or a mobile device, and have participants find an object to scan. This can be a rock, leaf, flower, or something else — as long as it’s not too big. You can then have them view and move around their object on the computer. Be sure to guide your participants in scanning, having them work slowly around the object.
Digitize and view historical items: Schedule a museum or historical society visit and use a portable scanner or mobile app to scan and digitize historical objects. Before scanning, a representative from the organization can give a brief history lesson on the objects that will be scanned. This is a great trip for all ages, but particularly fun for children. The digitized objects can also be emailed to the organization you’re working with!
Scan and view an object in VR: Use the MergeCube or any other 3D scanner to scan an object in 360 degrees to be viewed and played with in virtual reality. This is fun to do with virtual reality game TiltShift, where you can paint and draw in virtual reality.