Applications of 3D Scanning: Exploring Real-World and Virtual Uses

3D scanning is an exciting technology, but many users, after their initial 3D scan, are left wondering what to explore next. This article highlights diverse applications where 3D scanning, including 3D face scans, shines and inspires further exploration.

Game Development/Film Production

3D scanners have transformed asset creation in entertainment. Instead of spending countless hours on traditional 3D modeling, creators use 3D scanner options & affordable pricing to find tools that suit their needs. Photogrammetry on advanced 3D scanning platforms allow professionals and enthusiasts to produce high-quality 3D models quickly. These can be used directly in games or film production, VFX or animation.

3D Scanned Bell found in Black Myth: Wukong and its real-life counterpart

Additionally, one can create 3D scans and turn them into profitable 3D models for sale on platforms such as Sketchfab or Unreal Marketplace. This not only opens new revenue streams for enthusiasts and professionals but also fosters a growing community of creators sharing and monetizing their digital assets. Whether for direct application in games or for commercial purposes, 3D scanning empowers creators to meet the high demands of modern entertainment production.

Digitizing Spaces and Objects with 3D Scanning

One of the most transformative uses of 3D scanning is its ability to create digital twins—highly accurate virtual replicas of physical objects or environments. In online marketplaces, 3D scanning enables the creation of detailed 3D product showcases. Sellers can digitize objects, offering buyers interactive models to view products from every angle, significantly improving engagement and buyer confidence. By leveraging cloud services, these digital twins can be easily shared, stored, and integrated across platforms, further expanding their utility.

A 3DGS showcase of Norwegian Lighthouses

Architectural/Real Estate Application

In architecture, photogrammetry is essential for accurate 3D scanning of structures and terrains. 3D scanners simplify site surveys, creating precise 3D models for visualization, restoration, and analysis. For architects and urban planners, 3D scanner pro (KIRI Engine Pro) tools ensure every detail is captured, streamlining workflows and enhancing collaboration through cloud services.

3D Scanned Notre Dame de Paris in AC: Unity (left) and its real-life restoration (right)

3D scanning can also be incorporated in real estate to create immersive virtual tours of properties and in online marketplaces to produce detailed 3D product showcases, enhancing buyer engagement and decision-making.

Avatar Creation and Virtual Reality

3D scanning, especially face scanning, revolutionizes avatar creation for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). By capturing facial details, users can create lifelike 3D avatars for gaming, virtual meetings, or training simulations. This is especially handy for VR platforms like Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro, and more.

Face Scanning in VR Applications

• Gaming: Play as a personalized avatar in VR games for an immersive experience.
• Social Spaces: Use face-scanned avatars for authentic interactions in VR chatrooms or events.

3D scanning a person into a 3D avatar (Courtesy of KellyBlogs on YouTube)

Face scanning also powers customizable avatars, allowing users to modify hairstyles, outfits, or accessories while maintaining realism. These virtual duplicates perfectly replicate the user's individuality into a different reality, allowing socializing opportunities, virtual education, healthcare, and more.

Culinary Arts and Food Design

Even in culinary arts, 3D scanners are making waves. Chefs and food designers use 3D scanning to create intricate molds or capture precise food details for marketing. With tools like KIRI Engine, it's possible to transform culinary creativity into digital assets for 3D product showcases or enhanced branding.

3D-Scanned Food render (Courtesy of Hamza N. Meo on YouTube)

3D scanning extends far beyond its initial allure. Whether for creating 3D models in entertainment, surveying architectural marvels, crafting lifelike avatars with 3D face scans, or innovating in food design, its applications are limitless. With accessible 3D scanning options, KIRI Engine's advanced 3D scanning platform empowers users to explore these opportunities, leveraging cloud services for seamless creativity and collaboration. Why limit your imagination when the world of 3D scanning is just a scan away?