responses about scanners for cad cam

responses about scanners for cad cam

Aaron Laster

6/20/2021

Thanks everyone who responded!
Seems like many people have the same questions and confusion! Seems to be a
gap between free or under $500 options and then $500 and up options.
Please let me know if others have more opinions or options to add!

Aaron Laster, Clinic manager

Responses:
1) I'd like to see the results. The structure scanner is annoying because
you have to be so far away, we use it and that bugs me. We tried Comb and
had trouble but we didn't give it a fair shot probably.

2) Have you looked at the Smart Soc scanning system that Orthomerica has
developed? It uses your own IPhone or they will sell you one, and it is
around $3000 to get started.

3) have a Peel 2, and it scans incredibly well.... when the model is
covered in tracking stickers. If it doesn't have stickers, it loses
tracking way more frequently than a $6k scanner should.
The other benefit of Peel is that their software is very powerful, so it
can patch holes, make a watertight mesh model, and export STLs really well.
The drawbacks are that the handheld unit isn't very small, direct scanning
a patient is less than easy, and it's tethered (i'd recommend a wireless
model). I've compromised by still taking hand casts, and just scanning the
cast or even pouring it up and scanning a plaster positive. As silly as it
sounds, it actually worked really well for me to scan the plaster models
because I can do a little bit of hand/sureform prep on the model, and then
scan it for further digital modifications.
Frankly, a Structure Sensor on an iPad mini is hard to beat for the cost
and ease of use. I've learned you really need to nail down your workflow to
figure out what tools you need... (e.g)
1. Are you scanning patients directly? Or casts/models only?
2. What software are you using to process your scans?
3. Are you carving or 3D printing the final file? I ask that because the
software you use to prep the file can be nice and powerful if your scanner
is cheaper. Or like with Peel, the scanner is really good and the software
is powerful, but I still need to export it to another program for device
design.

4) The big issue is what will it be used for. We accept low resolution
scans for fabrication, many companies do not. To submit to them you will
need a high dollar scanner like, Creoform or... But all these options can
break the bank of a clinic considering multiple practitioners etc...

We have done many studies, baring helmets bc of regulations, a low
resolution scanner will perform similar as long as you take measurements.
That said the high end scanners are off about the same amount of time.
Measurements are a must. As far as scanning the pt.... I give that a big
fat no. Cast the pt in all cases, Prosthetics and Orthotics. Prosthetics
has a tissue manipulation issue (long story), Orthotics has pt alignment
issues. It is possible to measure the outside of a well taken AFO cast and
build from that, we do this everyday for pediatric hospitals across the
country. Prosthetics you will need an internal digitizer. but for a scan
of the afo, use a simple Iphone and a scan app that allows the scans to be
free. If you want to pay you can, there is Comb and Techmed. Comb is
cheaper, Tech med is free lol. You just have to buy a $10 token for every
scan...

If you have to buy a hi dollar version, use the Peel 2 which you can find
for $4800 if you look hard. I own the Peel2, Rodin, Canfit,
Creoform(technically creaform make the peel2, Rodin and the Creoform), Mark
Structure, Techmed plus internal digitizers both laser and mechanical and 8
flat bed lasers. Best option for newbies.... The iphone and a free app.
cast the afo and then scan and submit the cast when your ready..

5) You use DigiScan software with your structure scanners right?

6) I’ve been investigating the exact same.
Been using structure with iPad for many years. Would love a better option.
I agree with all your wants and needs, but might add the need for speed
when scanning.
There seems to be a huge hole in pricing of about $400 for structure
jumping to about $6000-$9000. Where’s the great scanner for about
$2000-$3000!



________________________________________________________

Original post was:
We are looking into options for scanners (we have ipads with structure
scanners) and are interested in peoples feedback. It can be overwhelming!
Also the priciing of these range drastically so we are wanting to find out
what is going to give us great results but also not be overspending. Are
these $6000 and up scanners worth it? Seems excessive but I'm not sure. Of
course every manufacturer thinks there's is the best and necessary. It just
seems like with advances in technology and additive manufacturing that
there are so many more options for scanners and it is overwhelming just for
the shape capture device alone.

Points we want to consider:
-We would prefer not using a tablet just because we have found it to seem
awkward going around a limb.
-using for as many items as possible (BKs, afos, FOs, etc)
-in a perfect world we wouldn't need to do reflective dots for landmarks
- not a huge hand piece
- we are not wanting to spend 20 minutes prepping a patient to scan so
efficiency and ease of use is key
-what if patient moves?

Thoughts on Einscan shining H vs Peel 1 vs peel 2 vs structure scanner vs
comb vs Einsscan pro 2x, XYZ handheld scanner, creaform, M4D, fast scan,
thor3d, etc

I know softwares get to be a whole other topic so we are now just trying to
see opinions and experiences with he handheld scanner options in our
profession.


Thank you,
Aaron Laster, clinic manager