Glossary · Accessories

Reference markers

Small round adhesive dots that are stuck on or next to the object. They let the 3D scanner recognise how to stitch the individual scans together.

Explained in more detail

Markers are small, usually round, high-contrast adhesive dots. The scanning software recognises them in every image and uses their positions relative to each other to align the individual captures. On smooth, uniform objects without features they help, and in laser mode they are mandatory with almost all scanners: Shining 3D states that the device emits no laser lines without detected markers. Shining 3D and Revopoint recommend an even but irregular distribution, and at least 4 to 5 markers must be in view at the same time.

Where does the term come from?

From Latin referre, "to bring back, to refer", and the English marker, "mark": points that the software refers to. In English they are also called reference markers or targets.

In practice

No rows, no symmetrical patterns and no groups, otherwise the software can confuse positions.
No markers on strongly curved surfaces, and use small markers on edges and small surfaces.
For delicate or large objects, first stick on paper tape and place the markers on it.
Instead of sticking markers on the object, you can also stick them on the base or a turntable.
Do not use damaged or dirty markers.

Not to be confused

Reference markers in scanning are not the same as registration marks on a plotter: the latter help with Print then Cut to find a printed design on the sheet again.

Frequently asked questions

How many markers do I need?

According to Shining 3D and Revopoint, at least 4 to 5 markers must be in the image at the same time. Revopoint gives about 6 to 7 cm spacing between the markers for the MetroX.

Will the markers be visible in the model later?

Under a marker the scanner does not capture the surface directly, so a small gap or flat spot appears there. So do not stick markers on details that need to be captured accurately.