Optical measurement technology

3D scanning

3D Scanning | 3D Digitizing

With our 3D scanning service, your object is created as an extremely detailed digital data model

Would you like to digitize any object in 3D for which no 3D CAD data is available?

Our 3D scanning service even enables the digitization of objects that are otherwise difficult to capture, large or small. conap uses 3D scanners to scan objects of any shape without contact. This involves recording several million points that are combined to form a 3D point cloud, creating an extremely detailed digital data model of the entire physical object. The basic geometric information of the object being measured is millions of times greater than with conventional tactile measuring techniques.

We scan at close range and at long range:

1. Close range with strip light scanner Zeiss Comet

Our strip projection scanner is a Zeiss Comet (Steinbichler). The component sizes can be between approx. 1 mm x 1 mm x 1 mm and approx. 10 m x 10 m x 10 m. For large components (from approx. 2 m x 2 m x 2 m) we combine 3D surface scanning with the photogrammetry method to achieve higher levels of accuracy. The accuracy of the scanner in the close range is between 0.006 mm and 0.12 mm, depending on the measurement volume. The advantage over a laser scanner is a higher level of detail with sharp edges. For most components, no measurement marks need to be glued on.

2. Close range with laser scanner Zeiss T-Scan LV

The component size with the Zeiss T-Scan LV (Steinbichler) laser scanner can be between approx. 5 mm x 5 mm x 5 mm and approx. 10 m x 10 m x 10 m or more. The use of photogrammetry is not necessary with this scanner because it is a tracked system. The tracker monitors a measuring space of 35 m³. This means that no measuring marks need to be stuck onto the object. Non-contiguous areas of a component or object can also be scanned, so that the entire object does not always have to be scanned. The scanner also records black or shiny surfaces very well, so that matting spray is usually not required. The accuracy of the T-Scan is approx. 0.04 mm in the close range and approx. 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm in the long range, depending on the measuring volume.

The T-Scan LV laser scanner is ideal for scanning vintage car bodies, for example, where neither measuring marks can be glued on nor matting spray used.

3. Long-distance range

In the long-distance range, a terrestrial laser scanner is used with which, for example, entire properties, building facades, production and supply facilities, accident sites and large-volume components can be scanned in 3D. A single scan has an accuracy of approx. ±2 mm.

4. Photogrammetry (image measurement)

We measure the objects with a high-resolution Nikon SLR camera. The spatial position of previously positioned target marks (coded and uncoded) on the object to be measured can be precisely determined from various images taken at different angles. The process is often combined with area scans for large objects (from approx. 8m³) in order to increase the accuracy of aligning the individual area scans.

5. 3D scanning - areas of application

The point clouds form the basis for:

the reproduction of the object, either as exact surface reconstruction or as a parametric reconstruction of the component with the 3D CAD system and, if required, with 2D drawing derivation

the quality assurance: 3D target-actual comparison, i.e. a 3D geometry check between the scanned component and the CAD model, wall thickness analysis, checking of shape and position tolerances, etc. Initial sample inspection report (EMPB) or First Article Inspection (FAI)

the creation of STL data of the component that can be used for 3D printing, for stereolithography applications, or CAE applications (FEM, CFD)

the creation of floor plan drawings or cross sections, etc.

With our 3D scanning service,
your object as an extremely detailed digital data model.

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Example projects 3D scanning

Zahnwelle, Reverse Engineering

Getriebegehäuse Windkraftanlage, Reverse Engineering

Kohlebrecher, Reverse Engineering

Francis Turbine, Reverse Engineering

Modellfigur eines Giessers, 3D-Scan

Baroker Bilderrahmen 3D-Scan

Abgasturbolader, 3D-Scan, NURBS-Modell, exakte Flächenrückführung

Abgas-Turbo-Lader, exakte Flächenrückführung

Ducati Monster Tank, Reverse Engineering

Kunststoff Spritzgussteil. Reverse Engineering.

Kunststoff Spritzgussbauteil, Reverse Engineering

Laufschuh. 3D-Scan mit Farbtextur.

Porsche 917, Reverse Engineering Motorteile

Porsche 917, Reverse Engineering Motorbauteile

Räumarm Schweisskonstruktion, Reverse Engineering

3D Scan Bauteile 4 Zyl. Otto-Motor

3D-Scan antike Bierflasche Borusseum Borussia Dortmund

Antike Bierflasche anno 1905, Borusseum Dortmund

Monocoque eines Rennwagens, Geometriekontrolle

Knüpferrahmen, Gußbauteil, Reverse Engineering

Karosse Bizzarrini, Reverse Engineering

Gasturbine 5-Frame. 3D-Scan

3D Scan und Reverse-Engineering Fahrrad Vorbau

3D Scan Einzylinder Motorradmotor

Zylinderkopf Kreidler, Reverse Engineering

Übergabeschurre, Schweisskonstruktion, Reverse Engineering

3D Scan BMW-Mini

3D-Scan Computer-Platinen

3D-Scan diverse Fahrzeuge

3D Scan Stosstange W198 300SL CAD-Modell vorne links

3D-Scan diverse Oldtimer Blechbauteile

3D Scan Fond BMW-Mini

3D-Scan Spritzgußbauteil, Lampenhalter PKW

3D-Scan Shimano Kettenspanner

3D-Scan Oldtimer Ferrari 330 GT Zylinderkopf mit Ventilen Zylinder 1, Ventile geschlossen und geöffnet überlagerte Scandaten

3D-Scan Ferrari 330 GT Zylinderkopf

3D-Scan Ferrari 330 GT Antriebsstrang

3D-Scan Sachs Mofa-Motor Kurbelgehäuse

3D-Scan Oldtimer Bentley Oldtype

Show all application examples

What is a 3D scan?

A 3D scan is a modern technology that allows a real object or environment (inside and outside) to be captured and digitally represented in three dimensions. This method is used in various fields of application, from industry to medicine and the entertainment industry.

Further explanation of what
a 3D scan is and how it
works:

1. Basic principle

A 3D scanner captures the physical structure of an object or scene by collecting data points, a point cloud that accurately represents the shape (geometry), surface texture, and position in space.

2. Capture technologies

There are several methods for performing 3D imaging, including:

3D laser scanning: A laser beam is aimed at the surface of the object being scanned, and the reflection of the laser is measured. By analyzing the time the laser beam travels, the distance to different points on the surface can be calculated.

Structured light or fringe projection: A projector projects a pattern of lines or dots of light onto the surface of the object, and a camera captures the distortion pattern of the light. This allows the 3D information to be calculated.

Photogrammetry: This involves taking images from different angles, and software analyzes the parallax and the angular velocity.

3. Data processing

The recorded data points, the point cloud, are then networked, a polygon surface network is created, consisting of countless triangular surfaces. The component can then be digitally reconstructed based on this polygon surface network. Using special 3D software, various types of digital 3D models of the scanned object or scene can then be created, e.g. an exact surface reconstruction, a so-called NURBS model or an idealized, parametric 3D CAD model consisting of regular geometry and freeform surfaces.

4. Applications

3D scans are used in many areas. In industry, they are used for quality control, product development and production control. In architecture and construction, they can help with the planning and documentation of buildings and construction projects. In medicine, 3D scans enable detailed representations of body structures for diagnosis and surgery. In the entertainment industry, they are used to create 3D models for video games, animations and visual effects.

5. Advantages

3D scanning provides precise and detailed 3D data that is of great use in many industries. It can save time and money, minimize errors and increase efficiency.

6. Summary

Overall, 3D scanning technology enables the accurate capture and representation of real-world objects and scenes in digital form, offering a wide range of applications and benefits in various fields.

Would you like to have components 3D scanned?

Do you want to have components 3D scanned? In today’s technology-driven world, 3D scanning of components opens up a wealth of possibilities and advantages. Whether you work in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, architecture or another industry, 3D scanning can enrich your business in many ways.

precision and accuracy

3D scans capture components with remarkable precision and accuracy. Every angle, every surface and every detail is digitally captured and converted into a highly detailed 3D model.

quality control

3D scanning allows you to ensure that your components meet the highest quality standards. Deviations from design specifications can be quickly identified and corrected.

design optimization

The digital 3D models allow you to analyze and optimize your components. You can make changes to improve performance, efficiency and functionality.

Reproduction

With a 3D scan, you can create precise digital copies of your components as needed. This digital copy can then be used again in the manufacturing process.

Documentation

Archive and document your components in digital form to ensure smooth tracking and maintenance.

error identification

Early fault detection is crucial to prevent expensive breakdowns and repairs. 3D scans help to detect faults or signs of wear in good time.

Precise 3D scanning service

Precise 3D scanning services are a crucial key to digitally capturing real-world objects, structures and environments. Optical measurement technology has made impressive progress in recent years and offers a wide range of applications in various industries.

Here are some of the outstanding aspects and benefits of a precise 3D scanning service:

1. Precision and measurement accuracy

As the name suggests, 3D scanning is characterized by its remarkable precision. It can capture microscopic details and reproduce the exact geometry of objects or environments, making it perfect for applications where the highest accuracy is required, such as in the manufacturing industry for quality control.

2. Time saving

Compared to traditional surveying methods, precise 3D scanning services can save significant time. With fast data acquisition and efficient processing, large areas or complex structures can be captured in a shorter time using 3D scanning.

3. Versatility

3D scans created with 3D scanners are extremely versatile and find application in various fields such as mechanical engineering, industrial product development, shipbuilding, tunneling, automotive, aerospace, architecture, engineering, medicine, entertainment, monument preservation, forensics, archaeology and many others. They can be used for creating 3D models, reverse engineering, geometry control and quality control, as well as for monitoring changes over time.

4. Error minimization

By providing precise measurements and the ability to create digital reference models, 3D scanning helps minimize errors in product development and production. This is especially important in industries where the slightest deviations can have serious consequences.

5. Innovation potential

Precise 3D scanning services contribute to the innovation potential as they open up new ways for the design, analysis and visualization of products and projects. They enable the development of customized solutions and support the product development process.

6. Documentation and planning

In architecture and construction, 3D scans are often used to document buildings and sites and to plan renovation and construction projects. 3D scan data provides a realistic basis for planning and visualization.

7. Quality control

In the manufacturing industry, precise 3D scanning is an important part of quality control, enabling monitoring of production processes and identification of deviations from design specifications.

8. Summary

Overall, precise 3D scanning services offer a wealth of benefits that can be used in many fields to produce more efficient and accurate results. Their ability to accurately capture and visualize data has forever changed the way we understand and use the world around us.

Contact us now

Contact us to learn more about our 3D scanning services and how they can help you with your projects. We are available to answer your questions and help you with your next project. Let’s work together to realize the benefits of 3D scanning for your business.

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3D scan output formats

3D scan output formats are file formats used to store and process the captured 3D data and models from 3D scans. Choosing the right format depends on several factors, including the type of 3D scanner, the purposes for which the data will be used, and the software used for post-processing, processing, and displaying the models. Here are some of the common 3D scan output formats:

STL (Stereolithography)

STL is one of the oldest and most widely used 3D scanning output formats. It stores the surface geometry of an object as a mesh of planar triangles, a polygon surface mesh. STL files are largely platform independent and are commonly used in 3D printing applications.

OBJ (Wavefront OBJ)

This format stores both the geometry and texture information (i.e. the color information of the surface) of a 3D model. It is often used in 3D modeling and graphics software.

PLY (Polygon File Format)

PLY is a flexible format that can store both the geometry and additional information such as colors and normals. It is particularly useful in computer graphics and visualization.

FBX (Filmbox)

Originally developed by Autodesk, the FBX format is widely used in animation and game development. It can store 3D models, animations and material information.

STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Data)

This format is often used in industrial manufacturing and CAD applications to store detailed 3D models with metadata.

IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification)

Similar to STEP, IGES is used in industry for the exchange of 3D CAD data to ensure interoperability between different CAD systems.

Collada (DAE – Digital Asset Exchange)

This open format is widely used in the gaming industry and 3D graphics software and can store both geometry and material information.

3MF (3D Manufacturing Format)

An emerging format specifically designed for 3D printing. It allows storing 3D models along with printing parameters and color information.

X3D (Extensible 3D)

This format is often used for 3D visualization and web 3D applications and allows the display of 3D content in the web browser.

PRT. und IPT

We can also provide native formats of the CAD systems Creo and Inventor or Geomagic Design X.

Send components or on-site appointment

We understand that flexibility and convenience are important when using our
3D scanning services, so we offer you the choice between two convenient options:

Send components

You can simply send us your physical components by courier. We will then scan them precisely and carefully in our measurement laboratory and create the digital 3D models. This option is particularly suitable if you are located at a remote location or want to outsource the scanning process.

on-site appointment

With our mobile scanning systems, mobile laser scanners and mobile star projection scanners or photogrammetry, we can scan objects on site almost anywhere. They can often be used during ongoing operations. However, the exact requirements on site must be clarified in advance.