Scantech iReal M3 3D Scanner

The Scantech iReal M3 is a professional-grade handheld 3D scanner with dual infrared VCSEL and parallel laser light source that is completely invisible and safe for human eyes leading to friendly and comfortable scanning experiences. Engineered with a compact and lightweight design, the device is aimed at ease of use as well as precise and rapid scanning with vivid color capturing. It works exceptionally well with outdoor objects, black and reflective surfaces, human body and hair. With a wide scanning area and flexible working distance, the Scantech iReal M3 is great for various scenes and objects of different sizes.

The iReal M3 employs two light sources: parallel infrared laser lines and infrared VCSEL structured light to complete optical measurements based on the triangulation principle. For the former mode, the device projects seven infrared parallel lasers onto the scanned object and calculates spatial coordinates of the laser beams deformed by the geometry of the object according to the image parallax obtained by the cameras. Captured serial 3D point cloud data can be encapsulated by the software to generate a corresponding 3D mesh model. For the latter mode, the principle of 3D reconstruction is quite similar, differing only in the light source and projection. It involves projecting a non-periodic random digital scatter onto the object’s surface. The 3D data is obtained by scanning and stitching from multiple angles, and then the point cloud is reconstructed to form a triangular mesh and obtain the corresponding 3D model.

Plus, the iReal M3 model adopts two kinds of fill lights, which can be controlled individually. The invisible infrared fill light can enhance marker recognition and black material adaptability, while the LED fill light can enhance the brightness of color alignment.

Thanks to the built-in color camera, the iReal M3 is capable of capturing rich, bright colors as well as clean textures for photorealistic 3D models. With high material adaptability, it is also great for scanning dark and reflective surfaces as well as the human body and hair. The ergonomic design, weight of only 731 grams, and thoughtful button layout ensure comfortable device management.

The supplied scanning software has an intuitive interface and manifold automated tools to ensure fast and quality data acquisition. It fits both new and seasoned users and generally provides a seamless experience. The scanner also supports multiple third-party software solutions aimed at particular post-processing tasks, from reverse engineering to 3D measurement analysis.

Considering all the highlighted characteristics, the Scantech iReal M3 makes a perfect solution for both personal and professional use. The device allows one to scan a wide variety of objects, from artifacts and mechanical parts to hair and the entire body. It can serve as a highly cost-effective 3D digitization solution for applications in many areas: 

• Industrial design
• Engineering design
• Car customization
• Human scanning
• Art and design
• Archeology
• Inspection and analysis
• Scientific research 
• Healthcare
• Education

To assess the capabilities of the Scantech iReal M3 3D scanner, take a look at these remarkably detailed renders captured by the device.

For example, this parrot model boasts bright and saturated colors with a clear contrast. With such rich color capture, the device is particularly useful for projects where high-quality color information is important, for instance, inspection, documenting and archiving, 3D modeling for video games, reverse engineering, and more.

Parrot by iReal 3D on Sketchfab

What’s more impressive, this is how the scanner works with black and shiny surfaces.

Automotive Floor Mat by iReal 3D on Sketchfab

Finally, due to its high accuracy, the iReal M3 captures everything up to the smallest detail, which makes it a perfect choice for industrial applications that require millimeter-precision renders.

Hard disk scanning and texturing by Slavikus360 on Sketchfab

 Navigation

• Scan accuracy
• Scanning modes specifics
• Scan volume
• Scanner controls
• Software
• What’s in the box
• Look and feel
• Price

Scan accuracy

The Scantech iReal M3 is equipped with a color and a monochrome 1.3 MP cameras, so it can operate in both mono and color modes. The device is capable of scanning objects with an accuracy of up to 0.1 mm and a volumetric accuracy of 0.25 mm/m. With a point-to-point distance of 0.1 mm, it can reconstruct high-resolution geometric structures and capture fine details, easily handling scanning tasks for various professional spheres. Furthermore, the scanning rate of the iReal M3 model is 60 FPS, which greatly improves scanning efficiency and allows getting high-quality 3D data quickly.

Compared to colored lasers, infrared light sources are absorbed relatively less when projected onto a colorful surface. Thus, the iReal M3 is great for scanning objects with rich colors. Thanks to the unique decoding algorithm of structured light, the scanner is also optimized to scan objects with high color contrasts. Conveniently, the software will automatically make the overall exposure as correct as possible.

Featuring strong material adaptability both indoors and outdoors, the device is capable of high-quality 3D scanning of industrial parts, automotive exteriors and interiors with black and reflective surfaces, and more.

For example, this is how the Scantech iReal M3 deals with an object with black surface in the parallel laser mode:

When objects are full of continuous, non-repetitive, and richly varied features, you can scan them directly with geometry and feature alignment. The target-free scanning and one-button start improve on-site working efficiency. Due to hybrid alignment mode (markers + features), the device is capable of scanning objects with inadequate geometric or textural features. With several markers on featureless parts, it is possible to quickly and smoothly align your scans.

The model is also optimized for safe and quality capturing of the human hair and body. With invisible structured light technology, the Scantech iReal M3 creates optimal conditions for comfortable scanning even in dark environments. With algorithmic optimization technology, the device will automatically remove displacements caused by slight movements of the scanned person and eliminate misalignment risks for quick and seamless operation.

Scanning modes specifics

The Scantech iReal M3 features infrared laser and structured light scanning modes that enable smooth 3D data acquisition in different applications. To achieve the best possible results, it is important to understand the purpose of each mode.

Note: the scanner supports capturing monochrome 3D data outdoors. It is suggested not to scan colorful textures under direct sunlight. Also, please do not calibrate the scanner under direct sunlight.

Scan volume

The Scantech iReal M3 features a large scanning area for rendering objects of different sizes. Specifically, the field of view stands at 580 x 550 mm, with a depth of field of 720 mm. The device can accurately capture small to large-sized objects from 5 cm to 4 m in length.

Check out how fast, smooth, and easy is the scanning process with the Scantech iReal M3 model:

Scanner controls

To begin using the Scantech iReal M3 3D scanner, just connect it to your computer using the dedicated USB cable that is supplied with the device and complete a simple one-click setup.

Software

The scanner comes with the proprietary iReal 3D software featuring clear and intuitive controls. The program supports the most common file formats, such as PLY, OBJ, STL, ASC, and provides rapid data acquisition and high processing speed. With its rich functionality, iReal 3D delivers a really smooth and responsive 3D scanning experience. The list of its handy features contains intelligent data optimization, smart color map for real-time data check, effective data recovery, convenient multi-scene switch, integrated 3D measurement analysis, and seamless integration with GOM Inspect software interface for direct data detection, comparison, analysis, and processing.

In terms of third-party post-processing software, the Scantech iReal M3 supports various professional and comprehensive 3D digital solutions. Thus, for working with color, it is recommended to use iReal 3D Mapping. This independent software specially developed by Scantech allows producing high-definition, real-color 3D models from multi-angle photos taken by mobile phones or SLRs.

For reverse engineering and design, one can use Geomagic Design X, QUICKSURFACE, and Mesh2Surface add-in to convert 3D models into digital parametric CAD files for redesign and production.

For 3D measurement, inspection and analysis, there is professional software like GOM Inspect, GOM Inspect Pro, and Geomagic Control X. Use these solutions to evaluate scanned data, compare it with CAD to create intuitive color maps, generate thorough analysis reports, measure dimensions of specified features, volume, surface area, thickness, etc. and detect deviations.

What’s in the box

• Scantech iReal M3 3D scanner
• Power cable
• USB cable
• AC adapter
• Several sets of markers
• Software dongle
• USB drive
• Portable suitcase

For some items, package content may change. In case of any questions, please get in touch.

Look and feel

The Scantech iReal M3 3D scanner is available in a mixture of gray and black. Its stylish look and portable design make it ideal for a wide range of personal and professional applications, especially off-site projects. The general layout of the device components is shown in the picture:

The scanner dimensions are 5.5 x 3.7 x 10.2 in (140 x 94 x 258 mm). It weighs only 1.9 lb (856 g).

Price

To learn the current price of the Scantech iReal M3 3D scanner, click the "request the quote" button and fill in the form. We will contact you as soon as possible and send you all the details.