Hey there! Today, we’re diving into the world of 3D scanning with a focus on circuit boards. We’ll be using two of our favorite scanners, the Einscan HX and the Einscan Pro HD. If you’re intrigued and want to explore these scanners, you can find them on our website at visionminder.com/scanners. We offer a variety of bundles and accessories, so be sure to check out the pricing and packs. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us; we’re more than happy to assist you and can even set up a live demo for your specific application.
Why Scan Circuit Boards?
You might be wondering why anyone would want to scan a circuit board. Well, there are several reasons. Scanning circuit boards is incredibly useful for designing casings, ensuring proper fit and tolerance within a larger system or machine. Gerber files, which are commonly used for PCBs, aren’t in 3D, so having a 3D scan of your circuit board is indispensable when designing precise enclosures that account for factors like IO ports, buttons, or USB connectors. With the rise of the Internet of Things, having custom-fitted solutions for your PCBs is more essential than ever in the ever-evolving landscape of technology in 2021 and beyond.
Einscan Pro HD vs. Einscan HX
When it comes to choosing the right scanner for scanning circuit boards, there’s a slight competition between the Einscan HX and the Einscan Pro HD. If you’re dealing with small to medium-sized circuit boards, our top pick is the Einscan Pro HD. It comes equipped with an automated turntable, which makes scanning smaller parts a breeze. The automated turntable significantly simplifies the process and enhances accuracy. You may need to use some spray on reflective or dark areas of the circuit boards to aid the structured light scanning.
On the other hand, the Einscan HX is your go-to choice if you’re working with larger circuit boards. It’s equipped with blue lasers, which can handle dark and reflective surfaces without the need for markers. The laser mode provides fine detail but may take a bit longer to scan. The key advantage of the Einscan HX is its ability to scan more substantial objects efficiently. Ultimately, the choice between the two scanners depends on the size and characteristics of your circuit boards.
Using AE Sub Spray for Reflective Surfaces
When scanning circuit boards with reflective or dark areas, it’s essential to use a spray that aids the scanning process. One such spray is AE Sub, available at visionminder.com. This vanishing spray leaves minimal residue and is designed to coat the object with a light color. This coating reflects light, making it easier for structured light scanners to pick up features. The spray comes in different versions with varying durations, such as 2-4 hours, 12-24 hours, and even a permanent version that can be washed off. Choosing the right spray depends on your specific project’s needs.
Efficiency of 3D Scanning vs. Manual Measurement
You might be wondering why not use calipers or manual measurements to determine the dimensions of circuit board components. While manual measurements are feasible, 3D scanning offers a significant time-saving advantage. In just a few minutes, you can have a precise 3D model of each individual component, eliminating the risk of human error and providing a more accurate representation of the object. This makes 3D scanning an invaluable tool for creating custom-designed solutions that perfectly fit your circuit boards.
Pro Workflow with Einscan HX
Our workflow begins with the Einscan HX. Using proprietary scanning pyramids with markers, we ensure that the scanner has reference points to work with. We place these markers around the circuit board slightly larger than the object, allowing the scanner to pick up the markers at various angles. Notably, no markers are placed directly on the object itself.
After setting up the markers, we use the Einscan HX in laser mode for maximum accuracy. The blue lasers of the HX handle reflective and dark parts without the need for additional spray. We start the scan, moving the scanner like a paintbrush around the object. In a matter of seconds, we have captured a highly detailed scan of the circuit board .
Next, we optimize the scan data by removing unwanted elements and focusing on the circuit board itself. This optimized data is ready for further processing and can be used for designing enclosures or other applications.
Pro Workflow with Einscan Pro HD
When using the Einscan Pro HD, we follow a slightly different approach. The Pro HD is ideal for smaller parts, and its automated turntable streamlines the scanning process. We use the AE Sub spray on reflective or dark areas to assist the structured light scanning.
Positioning the circuit board on the turntable, we ensure it’s secure. We make use of manual brightness settings and adjust the working distance for optimum results. The Pro HD scans the circuit board from multiple angles, capturing a detailed and comprehensive scan.
Just like with the Einscan HX, we then optimize the scan data and generate a 3D model ready for designing custom enclosures or other applications.
Final Thoughts
Both the Einscan HX and Pro HD deliver impressive results in circuit board scanning, and the choice between them depends on your specific project requirements. The Einscan HX is excellent for larger objects, while the Pro HD excels with smaller components. The AE Sub spray is a valuable tool for enhancing scan quality on reflective surfaces.
At Vision Miner, we specialize in 3D scanning and printing solutions. If you have any questions or need assistance with your scanning projects, feel free to reach out to us. We offer live demos to help you choose the right scanner for your needs and provide expert guidance for your applications. Visit our website at visionminder.com/scanners for more information.
Thank you for tuning in and exploring the world of 3D scanning with us. If you have any questions or ideas for future content, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. We’re here to support your 3D printing, scanning, and digitalization endeavors. Have a fantastic day!