3D Scan Service

3D scanning captures the geometry of a real-world object digitally and without contact. The scanner measures tens of thousands to millions of points on the surface of the component and uses them to create a point cloud, which is then assembled into a polygon mesh (STL). The result is a dimensionally accurate digital depiction of the actual condition – the basis for reverse engineering, quality inspection, reproduction, or archiving.

Common methods include stripe light projection, laser line scanning, and photogrammetry; for interior structures, computed tomography is used.

Not quite. Optical metrology is the umbrella term for all non-contact measurement methods using light; this also includes 2D methods such as image processing, profile measurement or interferometry. 3D scanning is a sub-category of this: the surface-area capture of complete three-dimensional geometry.

In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably because optical 3D measuring systems, such as structured light scanners, are both. A distinction can be made based on the objective: optical metrology in the narrower sense checks defined features against tolerances (bore diameter, flatness, distances). 3D scanning captures the complete surface as a data set, from which both inspections and new designs can be derived.

Non-optical 3D scanning methods also exist – tactile coordinate measuring, CT scanning, ultrasound. This is also why „3D scan” is not synonymous with „optical measuring technology”.

The 3D scan captures the actual geometry as a point cloud or polygon mesh. Reverse engineering converts this data into a constructible CAD model with surfaces, features, and dimensions — only then can the component be modified, documented, or remanufactured.

The price depends on component size, required accuracy, and post-processing. For a sample plastic component measuring 300 × 250 × 250 mm, the scan costs between £95 and £145 net – including data preparation and output as a polygon mesh. We calculate CAD reconstruction separately based on the effort involved.

Large-scale plants, assemblies, and series scans are offered individually. You will receive a fixed-price quote before placing an order.

Optically, we achieve accuracy up to 0.05mm, and in industrial CT, up to 0.004mm – the appropriate process depends on the component, material, and requirements.

With our ZEISS ATOS III Triple Scan optical stripe light scanner, we achieve accuracy up to 0.05mm – sufficient for the vast majority of industrial applications such as spare part production, reverse engineering, and geometric control. The attainable accuracy decreases with increasing measurement volume and also depends on surface and geometry.

Where the highest precision or the capture of internal structures is required, we use industrial computed tomography on systems from ZEISS (METRONOM) and Werth (TomoScope), achieving values up to 0.004 mm at the highest level.

Shiny, transparent or deep internal geometries require a matting spray for optical scanning or a switch to the CT process. We will confirm the achievable accuracy for your specific component to you in advance.

The pure scanning time for a medium-sized component takes a few minutes to hours. The crucial factor for delivery time is the data preparation: we.

As raw results, STL, PLY or OBJ (polygon mesh). For further processing in CAD, we supply parametric models as STEP, IGES or in native formats (SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA) if desired.

From small parts the size of a one-cent coin to large structural components such as a tunnel boring machine head with a 20-metre diameter. We scan small components in high resolution in the lab, and for large objects we capture them using reference points in partial scans and assemble them into a complete model.

Optical methods can only capture visible external surfaces. When internal geometries, cavities, undercuts, or multi-part assemblies in their assembled state need to be captured, computed tomography is the method of choice. We work with industrial CT systems from ZEISS (METROTOM) and Werth (TomoScope®). They irradiate the component and deliver a complete volume model, including all internal structures.

Additionally, it allows for the non-destructive detection of pores, voids, and material defects. Limitations are imposed by component size and material density — highly absorbent materials and large wall thicknesses restrict the method.

For optical acquisition, we use the ZEISS ATOS III Triple Scan structured light scanner, and for the highest precision and internal geometries, we use industrial computed tomography scanners from ZEISS (METROTOM) and Werth (TomoScope®). We select the system depending on the component size, material, and required accuracy — if necessary, we combine multiple methods on one component and merge the datasets.

Metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, and composite materials. For reflective or transparent surfaces, we use a mattifying spray that evaporates without residue. We support very soft or deformable parts during image capture.

Yes. For plants, machinery, or non-transportable components, we conduct mobile scans at your location in the DACH region. For smaller components, sending them to the lab is usually more cost-effective and precise.

Yes, that is the most common use case. We scan the original part, create a CAD model from it, and then produce it additively or supply the data for your conventional manufacturing. Worn-out parts can also be reconstructed if the target geometry can be derived.

Yes. With the target-actual comparison, we overlay the scan onto your CAD model and provide a false-colour comparison as well as an inspection report with deviations at defined measurement points.

Scan data and CAD models remain your property. We work under NDA if requested, do not pass data on to third parties, and delete it upon request after project completion.

Photos of the component, approximate dimensions, the purpose of the scan (reproduction, inspection, documentation, archiving) and the desired output format. With this information, we can usually provide a quote within one working day.