Find out in this article how mobile 3D body scanner works to create an accurate 3D avatar. Today, it’s possible to use a smartphone to scan the body in 3D and obtain a faithful digital avatar.

How does a 3D body scanner work?

What is a 3D body scanner?

3D body scanners are innovative technological devices designed to capture a complete, three-dimensional image of the human body. They scan every detail, from head to toe. They record the morphology or precise measurements of every part of the body. The result of this capture is a detailed 3D model, called a 3D avatar, which faithfully represents the person.

This model contains rich, highly accurate data, offering a realistic view of the body from every angle. 3D body scanners are used in a variety of fields, including healthcare, for the creation of customized medical devices. But also in the luxury sector, to help recommend customized sizes or create 100% made-to-measure creations. By obtaining a high-quality 3D avatar, users can benefit from a digital replica of their own body.

Which smartphone for 3D scanning?

3D body scanning is now accessible from iOS and Android mobiles thanks to MyFit Solutions. Using photogrammetry technology, it’s possible to create 3D scans with simple smartphone rear cameras. All without the need for additional sensors. Photogrammetry works by taking a series of photos from different angles, which the software then assembles to create a faithful 3D model of the body. This method is compatible with a wide range of devices, making 3D body scanning accessible to a broad public.

In addition, some smartphones are equipped with integrated depth sensors for even more precise capture. For example, the TrueDepth sensor, mainly available on iOS devices, uses depth detection to create 3D models. By sending out infrared light pulses, these sensors measure the distance between the smartphone and the body surface. This makes it possible to capture fine details and improve scan fidelity.

How do I get a 3D avatar?

3D body scanning with a cell phone

Unlike traditional 3D scanning methods requiring bulky, expensive equipment, using a cell phone makes it easy to digitize a part of the human body. Capture is as intuitive as recording a video. Simply move the smartphone around the area to be scanned, following the indications provided by the dedicated application. The MyFit Solutions app offers real-time guides to help the user maintain the right distance and positioning.

In just a few minutes, the smartphone generates a detailed 3D model. A model ready to be viewed or integrated into specific solutions.

How to scan a face in 3D?

To obtain a faithful, accurate 3D avatar, we recommend scanning not only the face, but the entire torso through 360°. Here are the key steps:

• Step 1: Download a mobile 3D scanning application

  The first step is to download a 3D scan application from the App Store or Play Store. MyFit Solutions offers several options for different uses. A ready-to-use application: My3D Scanner or a white-label solution. In the case of a white-label solution or via our SDK, a customized application will be available on the stores.

• Step 2: Prepare the environment for scanning

  A well-prepared environment is essential for a quality scan. Ensure adequate, even lighting, and avoid backlighting and reflective surfaces (such as mirrors). The subject should be standing upright, motionless, in a position adapted to the context (orthotics, clothing, etc.). The space should also allow the scanner to move easily around the subject.

• Step 3: 3D scan of bust and face

  With the application installed and the environment prepared, launch the scan by following the instructions displayed. The smartphone’s rear camera captures a series of photos from different angles. Using photogrammetry technology, the images are stitched together to generate a precise, realistic 3D model of the face and torso.

• Step 4: Access the 3D avatar

  Once the scan is complete, the 3D model is instantly available on your phone or via an associated web platform. The avatars generated by MyFit Solutions are millimetrically accurate, photorealistic, and can be downloaded in standard formats (.stl or .obj). Our web platform also enables seamless integration into your digital processes, thanks to standard connectors such as APIs or Webhooks.

The challenges of mobile 3D body scanning

A mobile solution…

Mobile 3D scanning requires no additional expensive or bulky equipment. With a simple smartphone or iOS or Android tablet, it’s now possible to capture precise, detailed data to generate 3D models.

Whether via an out-of-the-box solution like My3D Scanner, or integrated as a white-label solution thanks to the MyFit Solutions SDK, this technology is perfectly suited to the needs of businesses. This enables professionals to rapidly deploy a customized solution, without having to develop complex tools in-house.

…to create customized products

One of the main challenges of 3D body scanning is the creation of fully customized products. For example:

• Medical devices: Prostheses, orthoses or compression stockings perfectly adapted to each patient’s morphology.
• Jewelry: Creation of one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry, precisely tailored to the wearer’s size.

This personalization is not limited to the functional aspect, but also enhances comfort and the user experience, making each product truly unique.

Thanks to 3D scanning, it is possible to offer an unprecedented product viewing experience. Customers can see their own body digitized in 3D, interact with the model and better understand how a product adapts to their morphology. This enhances customer satisfaction, while facilitating processes such as virtual fittings or online previews.