3D scanner using a structured beam of probe light

A 3D scanner for recording a digital 3D representation of an object, the 3D scanner comprising:

• a projector unit configured for projecting a structured beam of probe light comprising a spatial pattern onto the object which is placed in a scan volume, the object comprising a dental impression or a physical dental object;
• an imaging unit arranged to acquire 2D images of the pattern imaged onto the object when the object is illuminated by the structured beam;
• and
• an actuator unit arranged to control the position of the structured beam at the object by rotating a movable portion of the projector unit around a pivoting axis, the actuator unit is configured to drive a wheel, where a surface of the wheel is operatively coupled to the movable portion of the projector unit,
• wherein the movable portion of the projector unit comprises a light source,
• wherein the actuator unit comprises a second pivoting axis, wherein the second pivoting axis is orthogonal to the pivoting axis of the movable portion of the projector unit.