3D scanning can provide a lot of benefits across multiple applications: efficiency, precision, and cost savings. {{How Laser Scanning Works: Key Benefits}}}{{One advantage in particular is the ability to take precise measurements of an object with impressive 3D accuracy (even down to the millimetre!)}} An example is the Faro Focus 3D scanner, which measures with a sensitivity of 1 mm; this is very useful in an industry like construction or architecture, where large projects can crumble if the measurements are not right. Such high accuracy minimizes errors during design and manufacturing, which reduces expensive errors that would have caused otherwise due to manual measurements.
Moreover, 3D scanning accelerates data collection considerably. According to a study by Global Data in 2020, 3D scanning can reduce the time required for surveying up to 70% in comparison to traditional surveying methods. This feature saves a lot of time, which can be especially important for industries like automotive manufacturing or product prototyping, where time is of the essence. One example of the benefits of using 3D scanning technology comes from Ford Motor Company, which used the technology to create digital models of their vehicles, allowing them to streamline their design process and speed time-to-market by 30%.
The same 3d scanner can also be used to digitize existing objects or create digital models for reverse engineering, meaning the scanned data can be used for new design. This is particularly helpful for aerospace and manufacturing, where exact pieces of parts can be what is needed for repairs or redesigns. The reality is that reverse engineering with 3D scanning saves companies up to 25 percent of development costs since there is no need for expensive prototypes, according to a 2019 report from Engineering & Technology.
A second important aspect of 3D scanning is its potential to improve collaboration. It makes it easy for teams to share 3D models, and they can revise and receive feedback in real time. Capturing as-built conditions with technology means that design teams can be sure they have up-to-date information, keeping risks of expensive redesigns to a minimum. A good example is in the building industry, where companies such as Skanska have implemented 3D scanning technology to increase the accuracy of onsite contractual models, resulting in up to 20% increased efficiency for those projects and reduced rework.
Finally, 3D scanning encourages sustainability by minimizing material waste. Many traditional manufacturing processes often result in excess materials, but using 3D scanning for prototyping and quality control means that only as much material is used as is absolutely necessary. According to a 2021 study conducted by MIT researchers, 3D scanning technology has the potential to reduce the amounts of waste in manufacturing by 40%, leading to sustainable product design practices.
According to 3D Systems CEO Avi Reichental, “3D scanning is not only about capturing reality; it’s about the transformational power it has on how we design, create and interact with the world around us.” 3D scanning is changing the way we capture real-world data for a huge range of industries, from construction to entertainment.