Lab Scanners priorities and problems!!

[BobCDT]

Hi,
We have been seeing some loss of accuracy due to the incompatibility of scanners and large articulators. Yes, we can fabricate bite registrations and scan them. But, we are seeing some inaccuracy on some cases using the said protocol. In addition, we have had some problems on full arch reconstructions with alignment of a diagnostic cast scan data. I'm sure there are additional scanner and scanner software weaknesses.
So, for the purpose of this thread I would like to talk lab scanners only (NO CAD) and discuss what are the priorities if one was to purchase a lab scanner. I think the following is some of the important criteria needed to make an informed decision.
Accuracy
Scan time
Multi die scanning
Scanning models with large articulators
Scan software
Scanner support and loaner program
Price
Ability to overlay study cast scan for full arch recon
Powdering or spray for metal components

If you have additional criteria to add to the list please do so. I would love your opinions on how you would prioritize the list. What would be on your wish list for a new scanner?
As always, looking forward to your thoughts.
Bob

[Jorge]

Format of output file: open STL
If white light, VGA projector as second display or not
USB

[charles007]

Being a new owner of a scanner, Priority # 1 for me is Support, and a good manual to save on calls for help......the best scanner in the world is useless if you have to wait for an hour or more for help, and if your manual doesn't seem to be written my a tech.
Bob, with you having training video's on your website puts you at the top of my list if anyone is looking to buy a scanner......Once you start selling scanners with Exocad, you could be the #1 seller of scanners....
I agree with your list ........

[Gru]

Bob, do you sell Exocad? Becoming increasingly interested. Which scanner will you carry?

[BobCDT]

Bob, do you sell Exocad? Becoming increasingly interested. Which scanner will you carry?

Currently not selling Exocad. But, I think we are going to add it to the CAP Academy website. We are seeing the need for improvements in scanner design and scan software. Through all of your help, perhaps we can move existing manufactures or new ones in the right direction.
B

[Gita]

1. Price (esp. for 1st scanner, need a cheap one to kickstart)
2. No extra fee such as service/support fee and any other fee
3. Open (STL)
4. Able to scan un sectioned model
5. Good support...

[lcmlabforum]

Selemat Pagi! 3 am in the morning - you must have lots of cases from across the pond to be
working that early in the AM. What system is popular in Asia - 3Shape made it there yet?
Would imagine Bangkok/KL/Singapore have enough techs around to provide some support if Jakarta does
not have their own by now.
LCM

[NicelyMKV]

Minimal moving parts.

Wide field of view with sufficient depth

Large internal dimensions( if closed) to accommodate large articulators.

Extreme accuracy(obviously) with near instant scanning speed.

I do not mind removing adjacent sections to keep from adding more moving parts, but the scan capture speed should be almost instant.

User friendly scan software. This is where the identica unit really shines to me.

Should be able to scan very large areas at once( entire model actually)

I would think red laser would be out of the running eventually?

That's my one and a half cent

I'll add more as I think of it.

[Gita]

Hi Texan, We got 12 hours difference... 3PM the time of my post..
Here in my country most ppl buy close system.. I get no idea why..
We had 1 LD OpenScan. Quite happy with it.. The only one LD in the whole country, the nearest LD might be in Vietnam?

[BobCDT]

Just thinking about scanners again. We scan loaders of models and I hate that we can't put large articulators In the scanner. We do make bite registrations and scan the bite as the opposing. However, I don't think it's all that accurate. When designing (CAD) large cases is sooo frustrating to go throught the entire process and discover the bite reg was off in the CAD software. In addition, it's nearly impossible to scan a study cast for a full arch recon and get the study cast properly aligned with the digital die model.
How much importance do you all place on scanning articulated models?
Thanks,
B

[NicelyMKV]

I have had really good luck with the system I am using in all areas you just mentioned except being able to scan large articulators.

[BobCDT]

Hey Jason,
Do you feel like the large articulator scan issue is a problem?
B

[NicelyMKV]

Bob, I've been thinking about this for a few days. I am using monotrac at the moment. If I get a case that needs to be mounted on a large articulator. I just use the magnetic bases that came with monotrac. I can then separate the models from the large articulator. I normally just use a putty antagonist unless I am doing multiple maxillary anteriors. I like the entire mandibular opposing for alignment reasons.

I have not had accuracy issues so much with the putty bites. Actually, I feel the are more accurate especially for posteriors. I can really make sure the bite is nice and tight in occlusion. I mainly do acquired but i feel like the putty antagonist would work in situations where we are changing the positioning as well. I have one of my accounts whom is working closely with me to take good bites that I can use for my antagonist. Works great and cuts out a step.

Does 3shape have mesh registering? I have used this a few times in Exocad. Works great if something is off. You also have controlled or free hand antagonist positioning just in case.

To answer your question though, yes, it would probably benefit a lot of labs to be able to scan large articulators. Took the long way as usual

Jason

[REJ]

I think that the best type of scanner is dependent on the customer and sometimes case dependent. For example speed may be trumped by cost for a lower volume lab as long as the product quality is not compromised. Also in complex cases the ability to scan more accurately as for long span bridges and implantology may be of utmost importance. In higher volume labs, scan speed and ease of use would be most critical on bread and butter cases.