Sep 12, 2023

Why 3D Scan? Here's 12 real-world examples for engineers!

At 3DChimera, we have seen countless examples where 3D scanning has brought value to engineering teams. We understand that when it comes to considering a new scanner acquisition, engineers often find themselves tasked with developing a robust ROI to justify the investment in 3D scanning technology. With this in mind, we've compiled a comprehensive list to assist you in constructing a compelling ROI proposal for your management team.

Here, you'll find a selection of common use cases for 3D scanning, each accompanied by detailed examples:

3D Scan for Reference Data

When you require precise 3D data for the mating surfaces of a technological accessory intended for a leading competitor's product.
For cases where you aim to model an object after an unrelated product in the real world, perhaps inspired by the shape of a cookie jar for an upscaled pet product in your lineup.

3D Scan for Reverse Engineering

Initiating a digital CAD database for any product where the CAD data is either non-existent or lost.

HOW TO 3D SCAN ACTION FIGURES

Scanning a competitor's product to initiate a CAD database for a complex feature with intricate organic surfaces that prove challenging to measure by hand.

3D Scan for Inspection

Ensuring that newly manufactured parts align precisely with your CAD database for a first-article inspection, particularly critical when building a new part.
Swiftly scanning a batch of parts from each production line to verify compliance with your Acceptable Quality Level (AQL).

3D Scan for Archival

Digitally copying a valuable part from a borrowed object for future reference, ensuring accessibility for months to come.

HOW TO 3D SCAN & PRINT A HUMAN FACE

Safeguarding the data of old inventory without an original CAD database, by performing a scan to archive it indefinitely.

3D Scan for Assembly Fixture / Tooling Replacement

Digitizing custom fixtures/tooling fabricated on the manufacturing line, enabling redesigns for enhanced efficiency across the entire production process.

HOW TO UNLOCK VALUE AND RELIABILITY BY 3D PRINTING MOLDS FOR AUTOMOTIVE PARTS

Creating digital models of critical hand-built tooling/fixtures to serve as backups, mitigating the risk of production halts due to damage.

3D Scan for Quality Control

Investigating quality issues by studying pre- or post-production scanned objects, crucial in identifying areas for design improvements.
Monitoring the wear and tear of production tooling over time by scanning parts directly off the production line.

In the absence of real-world cases, quantifying ROI in hard dollars can be challenging. However, consider the potential costs associated with scenarios where 3D scanning could have prevented issues—be it through minimizing returns, reducing scrap, or averting costly post-shipment incidents.
Should any of these scenarios resonate with challenges your team has faced in the past, we're here to discuss how 3D scanning can make a tangible difference in your operations.

Do any of these scenarios raise a flag for an issue your team has experienced in the past?

Alexander Hussain