Creality CR Scan Lizard

What is a 3D Scanner and how does it work?

A 3D scanner is a device that can turn a real-world object or environment to a collection of data in the form of a point cloud. The collected data can then be used and processed into a 3D Model that you can then use to reverse engineer, print or work with in other CAD software. A 3D scanner can be based on many different technologies, these technologies will determine the costs of the scanner. Some technologies are installed in your mobile phone like the LiDAR on a iPhone to structured light that some 3D scanners use. The collected 3D data is useful for a wide variety of applications. Some of the things you can do with a 3D scanner are reverse engineering/prototyping, cataloguing of cultural artifacts or models.

What's in the Box?

Well, that depends on what package you choose. All include the Scanner, Data and Power cables. The Premium has all the standard but includes a turntable, tripod and a carry case. The Luxury bundle has all the Premium but also includes a Colour Kit (this is used to add a coloured skin to the model you have scanned). I backed the Kickstarter and chose the Premium package, and had it upgraded as I own other Creality products.

Specs and Scanning modes

Specs

Product Name: CR-Scan Lizard

Resolution: 0.1 - 0.2mm

Working Distance: 150 - 400mm

Scan Speed: 10 sps

Outdoor Scanning: Support Scanning in Bright Sunlight

Color Texture: Extended Support

Accuracy: 0.05mm

Single Capture Range: 200*100mm

Minimum Scanning: 15*15*15mm

Light Source: LED+NIR

Tracking Mode: Visual Tracking

Output Format: OBJ / STL / PLY

Machine Size: 155°84*46mm

Machine Weight: 370g

Compatible System: Win 10 64bit / Mac OS

Scanning Modes

The CR-Scan Lizard provides different ways for you to scan your objects. This can really help getting the best detail when scanning items of different shapes, sizes. These are Handheld and Turntable modes. Handheld gives you the most coverage as the scanner isn’t fixed to a single location, however this is also the hardest one to master as you need to make sure you are the correct distance from the item you are trying to scan and not moving too fast. In this mode you can scan an object up to 1.5m. In Turntable mode you put the scanner on a Tripod and the object you want to scan on the Turntable and start scanning, this mode is ideal for smaller objects ranging from 15x15x15mm up to 300mm. You can also use both scan modes on the same object is the item is able to go on the turn table and as around 3-500mm.

Using the Scanner

I have had this scanner awhile now and have used it loads from just scanning things around the house that needed fixing to going to a propmakers studio to scan some of his work to be reproduced with 3D printing. The software that was shipped with the Lizard wasn’t useable and would crash loads. Once Scan Studio 2.0 was released was a huge upgrade, it still had afew bugs and the Windows version was alot more stable than the MacOS version. With more updates and the developers listening to the community they have added features that the community wanted to see in the newer versions.  

There is defiantly a learning curve to using the scanner and although it is a consumer grade scanner its defiantly not a plug and play device. I have found that it can scan black objects it needs to be in the correct conditions with the lighting and distance from the object. Also with reflective objects I have found that you can get great results with a dusting of Talc (Baby powder) or Dry Shampoo. I haven't come across a object that I have had to buy the professional scanning spray. 

Using the Scanner

I have had this scanner awhile now. I love how compact this kit is with the carry case most of the time when it’s not being used I have it in my backpack/laptop bag. Although the scanner itself is on the small side there is a nice premium feel to it the weight isn’t too light that it feels like a toy and it’s not too big that it needs a handle (although I did design one for it I don’t use it link below).  I have used it loads from just scanning things around the house to going to a propmakers studio to scan some of his work to be reproduced with 3D printing. I have had some amazing results from this little scanner with great details. With all the updates that have already improved the CR Scan Lizards usability and performance and all the updates that are planned. I would say that this scanner has a long life ahead of it.

Amazon Affilate Link

https://amzn.to/3XWV6G1 

Link for my CR Scan Lizard Handle 

https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/gadget/cr-scan-lizard-handle