Using a manual turntable for 3D scanning offers numerous practical advantages. Not only does it make the scanning process more ergonomic and efficient, but it’s also a straightforward and portable solution for handling tricky objects.
In this guide, we'll walk you through setting up a simple custom manual turntable and using it to enhance your scanning workflow.
1. Make Your Scanning Workflow Easier
Using a turntable can significantly ease your workload. Just place the object on the turntable, focus on maintaining the correct distance with the scanner, and rotate the turntable with your other hand.
This setup gives you a more comfortable scanning experience with minimal movement around the object. To capture more detail, be sure to change the scanner’s angle as you go.
2. Add Markers to Your Turntable
Placing markers directly on your turntable brings even more benefits, especially when scanning small or hard-to-capture objects.
Stick the markers randomly across the turntable’s surface. Avoid forming any sort of pattern, and make sure that at least four markers are visible to the scanner at all times. A denser layout is generally better for consistent detection.
3. Use Turntable Markers for Better Alignment
Once your turntable is marked and ready, it becomes a highly flexible and portable scanning station.
In your scanning software, set the alignment mode to “Markers” to take full advantage of this setup. This method is especially helpful in the following situations:
3.1 Scanning Low-Feature or Patterned Objects
Objects that lack distinct geometry or have repeating patterns often confuse the scanner, resulting in tracking issues or misalignment.
With a marker-equipped turntable, you avoid these problems. Since the markers are on the turntable—not the object—you also save time, preserve the object’s surface detail, and reduce your use of marker stickers.
3.2 Scanning Small Objects (< 200 mm)
Small items are tough to scan using only feature alignment. The software may struggle to detect them properly, leading to tracking loss.
Markers on the turntable solve this problem by giving the scanner consistent reference points. This method is particularly ideal for small, detailed objects that would otherwise lose important features if covered in markers.
4. Bonus Tip: Prevent Misalignments
Sometimes, objects shift or wobble while the turntable spins—especially if they’re not flat or have flexible surfaces. This can lead to scanning errors since alignment relies on consistent marker positions.
To avoid this, use a small amount of adhesive putty to keep the object steady on the turntable during scanning. It’s a quick fix that ensures better results.
5. Final Thoughts
A custom manual turntable is a smart addition to your handheld scanning setup. It’s simple, portable, and improves overall comfort during scans.
With markers added to the turntable, you gain:
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A flexible and portable setup
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Better results when scanning low-feature or patterned objects
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Improved tracking for small objects
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No need to place markers on the object itself
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Savings on both time and materials
To further enhance results, use adhesive putty to prevent objects from shifting during scans. With this setup, you’ll get more reliable and efficient 3D scans every time.