3D scanning is a powerful technology that has transformed many industries. One of them is automotive 3D scanning. Imagine how complex it is to make car parts like engines or body panels that have to fit perfectly and perform well. Now imagine how 3D scanning can make this process easier by allowing designers, engineers, testers and manufacturers to work with accurate digital models of the parts. This way, they can improve their designs, reduce errors, save time and money, and create better products. In this article, I will show you some of the applications and benefits of automotive 3D scanning.
Definition and Importance of Automotive 3D Scanning
3D scanning used to be something only read about in fantasy books, but now it's everywhere. You can easily find a very fast, small 3D scanner that can be operated with one hand, with an accuracy of up to 0.05 mm. Such scanners generate a very dense point cloud that can be processed in various programs, making them ready to use. If you work in the automotive industry, it's worth getting to know 3D scanning and seeing how you can profit from it. It's a change that can amaze you!
Automotive 3D scanning is the use of 3D imaging techniques to capture the precise measurements and geometric attributes of vehicle components. It can also be about the whole vehicle. These data-rich digital representations not only enable better product design, but also help in quality control, damage assessment, repair works, and many other aspects.
It is a very efficient technology because it provides fast and reliable results, which are essential in the highly competitive and demanding automotive industry. Especially since here, time is money. 3D scanning provides information about the properties of materials their precision and fit. It is present at many stages of automotive production.
Applications and Benefits
From prototyping new parts to reverse engineering complex mechanisms or simply customising sleek designs for beauty enthusiasts, there isn't an area that doesn't reap rewards from automotive 3D scanning advantages:
- Quality Control: 3D scanners are very precise and reliable, so they can check the quality of products better than traditional methods.
- Design Flexibility: You can be creative and design what you want. Using 3d scanner you can scan original parts and design new ideally fitted to the car
- Reduced Time-to-Market: You can save time by making prototypes or testing more quickly. If you are a motor industry enthusiast, you can start creating and producing new car elements sooner and faster.
- Cost Efficiency: It may cost some money at first, but it will save you more in the long run by avoiding mistakes and trials in production. You can also offer 3d scanning services
Thanks to 3D scanning technology, you can easily create new and interesting solutions in a very competitive automotive industry. What is more, you don’t have to go to big international companies with your services. You can start in yours or in corporate with auto tuning garages.
Types of 3D Scanners Used in the Automotive Industry
If you are considering entering the automotive industry with a 3D scanner, you are probably also wondering what kind of device you will need. There are two main types of scanners that perform different functions - laser scanners and structured light scanners. These are different technologies that only overlap to a certain extent. This means that these scanners will be helpful for different types of jobs. Here is a very brief description of how these devices work.
Laser Scanning Technology
Laser scanners are very useful tools for making and fixing cars. But how do they work?
How Laser Scanning Works in Automotive 3D Scanning
Laser scanning in vehicle measurement does not work any differently to other industries. It is based on projecting a beam of the laser light onto an object and measuring its reflection from the surface Laser scanners use two methods in their measurements: Time Of Flight and Phase Shift. I will not elaborate on this topic here; it will be found in another article. Anyway, the scanner takes measurements of many points on the surface of the object and creates a detailed 'point cloud' of it. Next step is to convert into a complete 3D model of the scanned object.
Like any technology, using this advanced device also has its pros and cons that you need to consider.
Advantages and Limitations of Laser Scanning for Automotive Applications
Executives around the world agree that laser scanning is very effective for challenging situations, such as checking the quality or detecting even invisible damage to cars or their components. This is because laser scanning does not physically touch anything, can handle various materials, and provides high accuracy and speed.
However, the technology is not perfect. You will face some challenges. First of all, glass, transparent surfaces, as well as glossy, lacquered and polished parts are difficult to scan. This is because of the strong refraction of light on shiny objects and penetration through transparent elements. Scanning such surfaces without proper preparation will lead to inaccuracies, artefacts and a lot of noise in the resulting data. However, this is not a problem that cannot be solved. The key is to prepare properly for scanning - to make the surfaces not transparent and shining ;). In the automotive industry you will mainly be dealing with such surfaces. It is also worth noting that laser scanners can be hazardous to the eyes. You must therefore be aware of these limitations when deciding on a laser scanner for such applications.
Structured Light Scanning Technology
Structured light scanning offers another slicing-edge method for capturing three-dimensional data but follows slightly different operational mechanics compared to its Laser counterpart.
Explanation of Structured Light Scanning in Automotive Industry
Back in the garage, when a structured light scanner is implemented, it works by projecting a series of linear patterns onto the surface of an object. These are then distorted from their regular format depending on the topology of the object's surface and picked up by cameras mounted along with the projector.
From these captured measurements, sophisticated algorithms make precise measurements, delivering highly accurate 3D models with an accuracy of ±0.05mm or even greater. Thanks to this, engineers or product designers can prototype extremely accurate parts or detect any abnormalities.
Pros and Cons of Structured Light Scanning in Automotive Applications
Structured light scanning has several advantages over other measurement methods. Its non-contact nature enables fast and super accurate scanning of components and parts. It provides dense and precise data, achieving a higher level of detail compared to laser scanning. In addition, with full-field scanning, structured light scanning provides a complete view of the object. Of significance may be the fact that it is safe for the human eye.
Despite many advantages, structured light scanners also have some drawbacks.
One of them is light sensitivity. Very dark or reflective surfaces can interfere with the scanner's operation and lead to measurement errors. Therefore, such scanners are not suitable for scanning shiny or outdoor objects.
Another limitation is the range. Structured light scanners are not the best choice for large-scale projects. It won't be impossible to scan whole cars or large machinery but might be challenging. They have a limited scanning distance and require frequent calibration. Setting up and calibrating a structured light scanner requires some practice and sometimes more frequent service visits. A structured scanner can be more challenging, especially for novice users.
It is important to consider the strengths and weaknesses of each technology. To do this, it will be necessary to correctly define the scope of the measurements that will be made. Before deciding which scanner to choose, laser or structured light, you need to think about the specific projects you plan to carry out. Of course, nothing excludes the purchase of both types of scanner, but a certain barrier may be the cost of buying both devices.
Use Cases of Automotive 3D Scanning
Automotive 3D scanning has revolutionised the industry with its diverse applications, ranging from intricate reverse engineering processes to the creation of custom vehicles. Its value is evident in its ability to streamline production, enhance design processes, and foster innovation in vehicle customization and restoration.
Reverse Engineering in the Automotive Industry
One of the standout applications of automotive 3D scanning lies in reverse engineering. This technology allows manufacturers to produce exact digital replicas of car parts or entire vehicles, even without original blueprints. It's instrumental in comparing designs, understanding production constraints, and optimising resource usage. Additionally, it facilitates benchmarking, where manufacturers gain insights into competitors' products by analysing their components and assembly.
For enthusiasts of classic or vintage cars, 3D scanning opens up new possibilities in producing spare parts. This is especially valuable when original parts are no longer available. The combination of laser scanning and 3D printing enables both enthusiasts and small businesses to manufacture bespoke parts, aiding in car restoration and customization.
Techniques like laser scanning and structured light scanning are pivotal in these reverse engineering efforts. They capture the precise shape and dimensions of objects quickly and accurately, serving both professional manufacturers and hobbyists in their automotive projects.
Vehicle Customization through 3D Scanning
3D scanning also plays a significant role in vehicle customisation. Car owners use this technology to personalise their vehicles, adding unique features or enhancing existing ones for comfort and aesthetics. This could range from modifying seats for better comfort to installing advanced sound systems. Not to mention the purely decorative aspect of such operations.
Beyond personal modifications, 3D scanning is a powerful tool for business expansion in the automotive sector. It enables the exploration of new design ideas and business opportunities. For example, car parts can be scanned and modified to improve ergonomics, streamlining the upgrade process. This technological approach not only makes vehicle customisation faster and more precise but also opens up a realm of possibilities for enhancing the overall driving experience. For example improving the aerodynamics of racing cars.
However, 3D scanning offers benefits beyond minor adjustments. It can also play a key role in business development. The use of digital tools makes it possible to discover new ideas and possibilities that were not previously considered. Consider the possibility of modifying car parts for better ergonomics: scan the original part and seamlessly implement improvements. Nothing prevents you from scanning the entire interior of the vehicle. Scan the interior of the camper and improve it on your computer screen.
Is 3d scanning in the automotive industry for you?
3D scanning is not as easy as marketers present it. Buying hardware and software and taking the time to learn can be not enough. You also need to have the skills to do the scanning correctly and understand the results. What I didn't mention earlier is that you need to have knowledge of data post-processing and the right software for the job. This may mean hiring new people or training existing staff.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Will you have a budget for hardware and software?
- Are you prepared to invest time in learning new technology?
- Will you be able to deal with complex components and systems of a vehicle?
- Is high precision paramount in your business model?
- Do you feel comfortable in car workshop and you like working with cars?
If the answers to these questions are yes, then you should consider 3D scanning in the automotive industry. This revolutionary technology can take your business to a whole new level and open the door behind which you will find your unique niche!
In general, the automotive industry is one where there are budgets for 3D scanning. So if you are already in the automotive business running even a workshop and are looking for new opportunities to expand your business, it is definitely a good idea to start 3D scanning in automotive.
Future of Automotive 3D Scanning
Technology is changing rapidly and influencing how we live each day. 3D scanning is getting better and faster. It makes it possible to do more and more things and make fewer and fewer mistakes. The automotive industry will not stop its progress, but it will certainly change. It faces new challenges, such as electrification, continually increasing safety, improving existing solutions and, with all this, constantly reducing costs. This process will certainly not slow down in the coming years, but will gather speed.
One thing that could make 3D scanning even better is using artificial intelligence (AI). AI can help with making models, finding problems in scanned pictures and fixing them.This may sound like science fiction now, but it could be normal in the future! If you have any idea how to connect AI with laser scanning the future is definitely yours!
Conclusion
I hope I have given you a broad enough introduction to the possibilities of 3D scanning in the automotive industry. If I have given you some good ideas then it means it was worth writing this article. Remember, if you want to use 3D scanning in scanning motorbikes, cars or other vehicles you need to think about what you need, what you have and what you want. If you want to do more projects with less time and money, 3D scanning can help you do that.
If you decide to get into the 3D scanning business, you can expect some very interesting and unusual projects. It is up to you to decide whether you want to work with the latest technologies and create things that improve, facilitate or even beautify cars and their insides. I encourage you to do so.
