Thor3D has announced the Calibry Mini handheld 3D scanner.
The Moscow-based company has previously marketed several types of 3D scanners, including their popular Calibry handheld device, which we extensively reviewed recently.
We found the standard Calibry handheld 3D scanner to be easy to use and provide great 3D scan results, all at a rock-bottom price. But there were some limitations to the device, namely that it could not successfully 3D scan small objects. It really requires objects of greater than 10-20cm to achieve good results, and there are plenty of applications for objects of that size.
But what would you do if you actually required to 3D scan a smaller object with very fine details? Now it turns out Thor3D has a new device to do just that: the Calibry Mini.
Unlike most products named “Mini”, the Calibry Mini is not smaller than its siblings; in fact, it’s approximately the same dimensions, if not identical. “Mini” refers to its function, rather than its size: it’s designed to capture 3D scans of objects 2-30cm in length.
The Calibry Mini inherits one of the best features of the original Calibry: multiple capture modes. While most 3D scanners offer only a single capture mode, one of structured light, photogrammetry or via reflective targets, the Calibry scanner family offers all three! You simply need to select the mode at the beginning of a scan session — and set up reflective targets if that’s the mode you’ve chosen.
The Calibry Mini also captures color textures through onboard cameras during 3D scans. While not required during scanning, it does allow for generation of excellent full color 3D scans if required.
One more thing I should mention: the Calibry scanners are quite lightweight because they lean heavily on an attached laptop to do much of the processing. This makes for a much easier scanning session where it’s easy to move the handheld scanner around at different angles for a longer period.
Thor3D has published a video showing the Calibry Mini in operation:
Here are the relevant specifications:
- Accuracy of 0.07mm, which is excellent for small objects
- Depth of View: 180-300mm, which is the distance the scanner must be spaced from the object
- Data acquisition speed: 1m points per second
- Weight: 900g
- Frame capture rate: up to 30fps
Thor3D believes the Calibry Mini will be very useful in certain 3D scanning situations, including:
- Healthcare, where body part 3D scans can be easily captured in high fidelity
- Education, where students will be able to access high-quality 3D scanning technology at a relatively low price
- Archaeology, where small excavated objects can be captured in high detail on site
I haven’t tested the Calibry Mini yet, but from the looks of the device it is extremely similar to the standard Calibry scanner, and thus likely has many of the same characteristics. I encourage you to have a read through our detailed review of the original Calibry to get a feel for how the Calibry Mini might work.
The Calibry Mini is set for shipping this September, and will be priced at €6,490 (US$6,990).
Via Thor3D
