[Techtaffy Newsdesk]

MakerBot unveiled the MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner prototype at the SXSW currently under way in Austin, Texas.

The MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner lets users take a physical object, scan it, and create a digital file – without any design, CAD software or 3D modeling experience at all – and then print the item on a MakerBot Replicator 2 or MakerBot Replicator 2X Experimental 3D Printer.

Bre Pettis (CEO , MakerBot): It’s a natural progression for us to create a product that makes 3D printing even easier. With the MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner, now everyone will be able to scan a physical item, digitize it, and print it in 3D – with little or no design experience.

The MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner uses lasers and cameras to replicate physical objects into a digital form and file, in as little as three minutes. You can then print the object using desktop 3D printers.  

The scanner is not yet available for sale, but you can sign up at MakerBot to be notified when it goes on sale.

[Image courtesy: MakerBot]