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Creality launched a new 3D scanner, the curiously named CR-Scan Ferret Pro.
About Creality
Creality has consistently focused on expanding 3D printing accessibility throughout its history, and the CR-Scan Ferret Pro will certainly follow that pattern. While Creality has specialized in manufacturing 3D printers, the company also offers and expanding line of 3D scanners.
Previously we reviewed their handy CR-Scan Lizard, which we found to be highly effective when capturing object scans. We were able to successfully convert these into 3D models and print them.
CR-Scan Ferret Pro
The CR-Scan Ferret Pro is Creality’s latest scanner offering, and as is usually the case with Creality, it’s aimed at simplifying the 3D modeling process. One of its core objectives is to streamline model acquisition, a frequent challenge for many in the field.
The “Ferret” is a handheld 3D scanner that leverages the smarts in your smartphone. As you can see in the image at top, it’s composed of a handle, base unit and imaging component. These are cabled together and form a truly standalone 3D scanning system: there is no PC required during scanning, and the operator is free to move about as required to capture objects.
Technical Features
There are many handheld 3D scanners on the market, but what makes the Ferret different? Let’s take a look at the technical specifications.
WiFi 6 Connectivity
The scanner integrates WiFi6, a protocol offering speeds up to three times faster than its predecessor, WiFi5. This ensures adequate bandwidth for intricate scanning processes and smoother data transfers.
Compatibility & Stability
The CR-Scan Ferret Pro supports both Apple and Android platforms and introduces a new anti-shake tracking feature. This is a feature I haven’t seen in other handheld 3D scanning systems, and I suspect it could increase the quality of scans greatly. This is because it can be challenging to continually hold a scanner in precise orientation during a long scan. Typically your arm gets a little tired as time passes, and you can get a bit shaky. It seems that the Ferret might be able to overcome that effect and result in better quality captures.
Versatile Scanning
Ferret operators can now scan darker objects, including car parts and metals, without the need for preparatory sprays. Typically these are quite challenging to capture because light rays are either reflected in unexpected directions that can confuse scanners, or in the case of darker objects, there just isn’t enough reflection to capture the subject.
Precision
The scanner boasts an impressive accuracy level of up to 0.1mm. The Ferret includes a unique face mapping algorithm that can delineate even minute facial features, suggesting there is big potential for scanning people and especially faces.
CR-Scan Ferret Pro Hardware
It’s equipped with a 3D imaging ASIC chip, designed to reduce computational strain on connected devices. The scanner’s single capture range is a healthy 560*820mm, suggesting it is possible to capture larger subjects.
Implications of the CR-Scan Ferret Pro
Creality’s increasing moves into the world of 3D scanning hints at a broader industry trend: the convergence of 3D printing and scanning. The CR-Scan Ferret Pro’s features, especially its precision and versatility, suggest potential applications beyond mere hobbyist uses. Creality suggests a number of applications for the Ferret, including scanning of automobile parts, capturing content for use in AR/VR systems, craft creation and artistic sculptures.
For those interested in delving deeper, the CR-Scan Ferret Pro can be explored on Creality’s official product page.
