Mole 3D Scanner

Video guide for using the Mole 3D Scanner in Groundworks

The Mole 3D scanner, located in Groundworks is a fast and simple solution to get an object scanned, so it can be worked on in in applications like Fusion 360.

Video guide for using the Mole 3D Scanner in Groundworks

Follow Ryan as he walks through the process of scanning an object using the Mole scanner in Groundworks.

Getting Started with the Mole Scanner

Step 1: Log into scanning computer

This is a single user machine that is not connected to the network and is quite locked down. Please log into the "Mole Scanner" account, located at the login screen.

Step 2: Launch "JM Studio"

On the desktop, double click on the JM Studio link, provided on the desktop.

Step 3: Click "Later" when launching JM Studio

This machine is not connected to the network, yet JM Studio is trying to do so. It warns you that you are not connected to the network. This is INTENTIONAL, as we do not want this machine on the network.

Step 3b: Confirm the networking error message

Step 4: Have Groundworks staff log into JM Studio

JM Studio requires an administrator password to get into the application. Please ask one of the Groundworks staff to help you log in.

ATTENTION: This means the Mole scanner is only available during our staffed hours (9-6, M-F much of the year)

Step 5: "Start Scanning"

Do not worry about creating your own JM Studio account, you won't be onthe network to authenticate it. Please justclick on the "Start Scanning" button to use the account setup on the machine.

fig. 01: power for lights, turntable, and mole camera

fig. 03: use main setup for scanning smaller objects.

fig. 04: if camera needs to be moved back, feel free to rotate base and camera to get more distance.

Step 6: Setting up your scan area

Turn on lights, turntable, and mole scanner by click on the switches on the USB hub fig. 01
Connect your USB storage device for saving your files (Computer does NOT have access to cloud storage) fig. 02
Place your object on turntable in light box on the desktop. fig. 03
Position camera and turntable box as needed.

fig. 05: Framing window

fig 06: Magenta indicates object is too close to Mole scanner

fig. 07: Blue color in meters indicates object is within range

Step 7: Preparing to scan

After selecting "Start Scanning" in JM Studio, it is time to position your camera for the scan. Use framing window to position camera, so you can see the object while scanning fig. 05
If an image is "too close," the meters on the left side of the display will indicate by turning magenta. "In range" is more of a blue color fig. 06 & 7

Step 8: Start scanning

After you have the object ready to scan, click on the "Scan" button in JM Studio. A frame counter will pop up, while scanning. (recommended 2-3 full turns)
As the object fills out in JM Studio, after 2-3 full turns, it should start to look complete. Click on "Stop" to stop scanning.

Step 9: Prepare for Fusion 360

After scanning, your object might look a bit rough around the edges. We can clean it up for export to applications like Fusion 360.
Navigate to the "Edit" menu and select "Fusion"
This will clean up and prep the image to be saved as a .stl or .obj file.

Step 10: Export file for Fusion 360

Navigate to the "File" menu and select "Export."
The last step is to export the file in either a .stl or .obj file. These are the two most common types for use in applications like Fusion 260.
Name the file and choose to export it to your external drive (connected to the USB hub, remember?).

Upon completion

Upon exporting your project, feel free to check the file on another computer in Fusion 360. If it looks as expected, you can quit the JM Studio software, power off the devices plugged into the USB hub. Put camera and light box back facing front.

Mole Scanner tips and tricks

Coming soon...

Self Guided learning:

Are you looking to learn about our Mole 3D scanner, but don't have anything with you to scan? Feel free to ask one of the Groundworks staff members to provide somehting to use while learning the scanner. Follow the instructions above and please let us kow if you have questions.

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