Surface scanners are devices used to capture the detailed shape and texture of objects. They work by projecting light onto a surface and measuring how the light reflects back. This information is then used to create a 3D model of the scanned object, which can be useful in various fields such as manufacturing, art preservation, and quality control. These scanners can vary in size and complexity, from handheld models to large stationary systems. They are often used in conjunction with software that processes the scanned data, allowing users to analyze and manipulate the 3D models for applications in design, engineering, and virtual reality.