3D Scanning Services
3D Scanning Service
3D scanning is a fast and accurate way of digitising objects for use in inspection, design, visualisation, reverse engineering and 3D printing. Surface Scan provides 3D scanning services throughout the UK, using the latest technology available.
We collaborate with Designers, Engineers, Manufacturers and Creatives, providing a wide range of 3D scanning services. We can 3D scan almost any object, no matter how complex. If you are looking for 3D Scanning services near you, then get in touch. We also offer mobile scanning services. We provide a combination of 3D Scanning, 3D Printing Services and Reverse Engineering Services, we can provide you with the complete package.
Recent 3D Scanning Jobs
bumper
This is an unedited digital 3D scan of a ford front bumper. The holes on the bumper are from markers to help the scanner capture the information.
The client wanted to use the data for several different reasons. The main aim was for fixing locations and modifications.
MG Ashtray
A customer took advantage of our 3d digital scanning services to create a mount for the main badge to fit to the ashtray. We 3d scanned the ashtray and the badge to capture the curves of both, and we then used our SLA 3d printing machine to create a mount to create what looked like an OEM badge mount.
Chopper Frame
We used our mobile 3D scanning service for Raw Steel Choppers to digitally scan this rare chopper frame.
They were asked by one of their customers to reproduce the frame and make any modifications needed. Then send the 3D data to a CNC company.
death penny
Here we used our desktop scanner for this world war one death penny. The customer wanted to reproduce the coin for so they could have their own copy. The coin was 3d Scanned with our desktop 3d scanner, we then cleaned the data ready for 3D printing. The coin was 3d printed on one our resin printers.
More About 3D Scanning
What is 3D Scanning?
3D scanning services come in many forms. Laser scanning, photogrammetry, structured light, the list goes on.
Our 3D scanning service uses structured light technology, but the end goal is the same, to capture highly detailed and accurate models of your object.
This 3D scan can then be used in many ways, reverse engineering, 3d printing, analysis etc.
What is 3D Scanning Used For?
3D scanning uses the latest technology to help simplify workflows in many industries and sectors. Let’s say you work in the automotive industry and you want to increase the aerodynamics of a front bumper or spoiler. We can 3D scan the original bumper or spoiler, reverse engineer it and make the changes we think will work. Then using CAD software, we can analyse our changes. We’ve written a great blog on “What is 3D Scanning Used For“, check it out.
How 3D Scanning Works
Using structured light, this works by using a single light source to project multiple lines/patterns onto the object, a camera then tracks these lines.
The camera uses the differences in these lines to determine the different depths of the given features. Then the software does the tricky bits.
Structured light is used in many industries, from 3D product scanning to aerospace. Providing highly accurate scan data.
Where Do We 3D Scan?
We are based in Kent, but we can 3D scan your object anywhere in the UK. We use the latest handheld structured light 3D scanning technology, so this enables us to be mobile, cost-effective, fast and responsive to your needs. We also offer a desktop service for smaller items. This also uses structured light technology to capture the same high level of detail.
What Can We 3D Scan?
OK, maybe not the rocket but we can 3D scan pretty much any object from 30mm upwards. For objects smaller than roughly 200mm we use our desktop 3D scanner, objects over 200mm we use our handheld scanner. Both will give you the same level of detail and accuracy and are fast and efficient. Objects that are shinny can be tricky to scan, this means a non-reflective coating spray is needed.
Some Advantages Of Scanning
Advantages of 3D Scanning
Saves time when designing products – If your product design is based on an existing object, then 3D scanner can capture every detail of the part – providing you with the data to design a matching part that fits perfectly. Or if you are altering a current design, you can use our 3D scan data as a good starting point.
Simplify the prototype process – Our 3D scanning services can reduce the number of prototype cycles needed. You can also compare the 3D scan data between each version. The process will also highlight any design flaws.
Improved Quality Control – You can use the 3D scan data to check the quality of your product. You can also check the scale and stability of the product. It is perfect for the manufacturing process, whether it’s 3d printing, CNC milling or injection moulding, you can spot deviations immediately and rectify them easily.
Re-manufacture parts without CAD Drawings – Want to re-manufacture parts but don’t have the original drawing? By using our 3D scanning services, you can create an exact drawing within hours. By reverse-engineering the scan data you can design a new product. You can then compare the drawing for the old and new products.
Keeping costs down – All of the above points save time during the designing, prototyping and manufacturing process. As we all know, time is money. Utilising our 3D scanning services can make the design to manufacture process 75% faster, and therefore 75% cheaper!
Already have your scan data? – If you already have your scan data, but need it reversed engineered and maybe 3D printed, check out our other services.
Scan to CAD
Our 3D scanning service is ideal for CAD users. We can capture exact detail using our 3D scanners. Then transfer this data into a 3D solid CAD model. 3D scanning is a much faster and more accurate way to collect data. Saving you time and money.
If you work in CAD and want to measure an obsolete part, this can be quite difficult. By using our 3D scanning services, we can create an accurate drawing within hours. This type of data is almost impossible to recreate by hand. We can provide you with accurate 3D scan data for a relatively low cost.
Lost CAD drawings are now a thing of the past. We can provide you with this information from a physical part. If you ready to find out more about our 3D scanning services to CAD, then please contact us.
Reverse Engineering
Our 3D scanning services and reverse engineering services work hand in hand. You can utilise the scan data to streamline the manufacturing process.
We will reverse engineer the data. You can design a part to fit on to the original part.
You can also redesign and improve upon the original object and remove design flaws from the original part.
Do you want to make your designing and manufacturing process more accurate and much simpler? Manufacturing better quality and more accurate parts? Then our 3D Scanning Services is the service you need.
If you would like to find out more, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Lets Talk
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