Fabscan Lite

thingiverse

Fabscan is an affordable laser scanner designed for Mac OSX and Linux Ubuntu by Francis Engelmann. Fabscan Lite, a derivative version, utilizes printed parts and wood dowel instead of laser-cut panels for construction. Geometry adjustments can be made by trimming dowel pieces, while an enclosure is optional but recommended due to the integrated laser target. The enclosure is made from a single sheet of foam board, scored with a hobby knife, folded, and hot glued together. The original Fabscan details can be found at http://hci.rwth-aachen.de/fabscan, with this project costing approximately $120 USD excluding printed parts. A video demonstration showcases alignment, scanning, and post-processing. The builder admits to not being an expert in the field but encourages kind feedback. To assemble the project, break down steps into parts, ensuring electronics function properly before printing plastic components and cutting dowel pieces to size. Assemble parts, measure dimensions, mount camera, LED light, and laser, align laser and camera, and scan in a darkened room. Finally, build the box using black foam board, gluing the assembled structure inside. The project requires a Logitech C270 webcam, 5mW focusable red line laser, NEMA 17 stepper motor (max body length 36mm), A4988 stepper motor driver module, Arduino Uno, NKC electronics protoshield kit, a 1A 12V power supply, Elmers black foam board, and various screws, zip ties, and adhesives. Printed parts are also necessary. Arduino motor shield assembly involves wiring components following the provided circuit diagram, ensuring neat connections. An LED is added for interior illumination during scans. The stepper driver potentiometer should be set as low as possible to avoid overheating the plastic turntable mounting hole. Printing parts in PLA with .25mm layers and 20% infill is recommended, with potential trimming and cleaning required. Dowel pieces must be accurately cut, but can be adjusted if necessary. Camera and laser components are installed as per provided links, followed by assembly of the structure using dowels, plastic tape, and adjustments to dimensions. Finally, the foam board enclosure is constructed from a scored and folded sheet, sealed with hot glue.