3DUNDERWORLD-SLS vs Polycam

3DUNDERWORLD-SLS is a free Linux project that reconstructs point clouds from camera image sequences illuminated by patterned light. Its structured-light process has CPU and GPU implementations, and the command-line program can save reconstructed models as PLY or OBJ files. Version 4.x requires two or more cameras and provides a generic camera interface that programmers can extend. Camera acquisition is not implemented, so users must supply a camera class through the provided interfaces. The project accepts camera image folders, calibration files, and a patterned-light projector as inputs. It does not provide real-time capture or mesh reconstruction. Libraries are included for integration into other projects, with CPU and GPU examples, and an API was included in OpenCV 3.1 for a stereo approach using time-multiplexing Gray encoding. The repository supplies demo binaries, example data, and CMake build instructions. Dependencies are OpenCV 2, CUDA 6.0 or later, and glm. CUDA detection enables CPU and GPU constructors; without CUDA, only the CPU constructor is generated.

Polycam is AI reality capture software for professionals who document, measure and design. It uses AI-assisted photogrammetry and LiDAR to capture spaces, construction sites, facilities, products and materials in 3D, and it can create shareable 3D object models. Users can generate customizable 2D floor plans; paid plans also list instant 3D and editable 2D floor plans. Drone footage can be processed into expansive 3D models. Polycam is available on Android, iOS and web browsers, though Space Mode scanning is limited to compatible iOS devices. Listed exports include GLTF, OBJ, FBX, DAE, STL, USDZ, point cloud formats and DXF; named workflows include Blender, Unity, SketchUp and Xactimate. Free access has limited space, object and AI captures, with GLTF exports and public link sharing. Basic costs $150 a year, equivalent to $12.50 per month when billed yearly. Seven-day trials are offered with annual Basic and Business plans, but not monthly plans or Enterprise. Business is listed at $400 a year and Enterprise at $1,200 a year.