# Open-Source 3D Scanners The CowTech Ciclop Enables 3D Scanning in a Compact Design By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2016-02-12 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3d-scanning References: [geeky-gadgets](http://www.geeky-gadgets.com/99-cowtech-ciclop-open-source-3d-scanner-hits-kickstarter-12-02-2016/) & [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/701089851/cowtech-ciclop-99-open-source-3d-scanner) The prevalence of 3D scanning technology is becoming more apparent as [3D printing expands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/centauri-carbon), so new developments like the CowTech Ciclop 3D scanner are coming to light. Currently funding on [Kickstarter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/revolutionary-3d-scanner), the CowTech Ciclop 3D scanner is open-source in design to encourage users to customize the product more finely and help contribute to its continued development. The CowTech Ciclop 3D scanner uses lasers to operate and can scan large items with ease thanks to the adjustable design aesthetic of the unit. The CowTech Ciclop 3D scanner can enable 3D scanning in a short period of time thanks to the minimal time needed for setup. The compact design of the CowTech Ciclop 3D scanner makes it ideal for smaller spaces or offices for enhanced usability. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.6/10 - Popularity: 54% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/computers) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Open-source 3D Scanning:** Open-source 3D scanning technology allows for customization and collaborative development, opening up new possibilities in the field. - **Compact Design:** The trend towards compact 3D scanning devices enables enhanced usability in smaller spaces or offices. - **Efficient Setup:** 3D scanners with minimal setup time streamline the 3D scanning process, increasing efficiency. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **3D Printing:** Open-source 3D scanning technology complements the expanding 3D printing industry, offering more options for creating digital models. - **Product Design:** Compact 3D scanning devices can be used in product design for quick and accurate prototyping. - **Architecture and Construction:** Efficient setup 3D scanners can be utilized in architecture and construction industries to capture accurate measurements and create digital models. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Affordable 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/affordable-3d-scanners.md) - [Revolutionary 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/revolutionary-3d-scanner.md) - [Optical Tracking 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/revopoint-trackit.md) - [3D-Scanning Block Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ascand-for-lego-3d-scanner.md) - [Display-Equipped 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/revopoint-miraco.md) - [Pocket-Sized 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inspire-3d-scanner.md) - [Revamped Affordable 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/revopoint-mini-3d.md) - [Hybrid Light 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shining-3d.md) - [Precision 3D Scanner Peripherals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/highprecision-3d-scanner.md)