What general effect did the advancements in 3D scanning technology have on additive manufacturing?

The advancements in 3D scanning technology have significantly enhanced the capabilities of additive manufacturing by enabling easier replication and modification of objects. With high-accuracy scanning, a physical object can be digitized, creating a precise 3D model that can then be modified or improved upon using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This capability allows designers and engineers to quickly adapt existing designs, innovate new solutions, or reproduce complex geometries that would be challenging to create from scratch.

Moreover, the ability to scan and replicate items facilitates processes such as reverse engineering, where existing products can be analyzed and improved. These advancements support a more flexible and efficient design workflow, leading to a lower barrier for entry in producing customized or intricate designs. By streamlining the transition from physical object to digital model, 3D scanning has played a pivotal role in enhancing the collaborative potential in design and manufacturing.