Artec 3D Scanners: Revolutionizing Automotive Production and Design

Welcome to our in-depth exploration of how 3D scanning is revolutionizing the automotive industry. As automakers continuously push the boundaries of innovation and efficiency, 3D scanning technologies have emerged as pivotal in reshaping production and design landscapes. Artec scanners specifically offer unmatched precision and rapid execution, these tools are not just enhancing the way vehicles are built but are setting new standards in quality and performance. From streamlining prototyping processes to enabling meticulous quality controls and supporting the intricate assembly of vehicle components, creating accurate 3D models in high resolution is indispensable. In this blog post, we will delve into the diverse applications of 3D scanning across the transportation sector, showcasing how this technology is not just meeting but exceeding the demands of modern manufacturing.

How does a 3D Scanner work?

3D Scanning allows for a user to capture 3d data from any part. The process typically uses a structured light source, LED, VSCEL, or red or blue lasers are most common in the case of a handheld scanner. The pattern of light distorts as it is projected onto the 3D surface of the object and a system of sensors detect the distortion to create millions of points (aka point cloud) which often are converted to a polygonal mesh.

3D Scanners can be used for precise 3D data capture which is then used in workflows with 3d measurement solutions such as Polyworks Inspector for quality control reports, or as a foundation for CAD models using tools like Geomagic for Solidworks. 3D Scanners have become a staple for many companies manufacturing product and many use it only to create a full digital 3D archive of 3D models for any part they produce.

Artec 3D Scanners: Perfect for the Automotive Industry

Since Artec’s beginning in 2007, the company has built a significant presence in the 3d market with their user-friendly portable 3D scanners. Artec 3D scanning solutions are exceptionally well-suited for the automotive industry due to their high precision, ease of use, and versatile functionality that meet the specific needs of automotive design and manufacturing. Each model in the Artec lineup offers unique features that make them ideal for different aspects of automotive production:

Artec Leo 3D Scanner

Self-contained and wireless: Leo is the most portable handheld 3D scanner on the market, and is able to scan large objects, like entire vehicles, without being tethered to a computer or power source.
Onboard processing: It provides real-time processing, displaying the scan as it happens directly on the scanner’s own touchscreen, facilitating immediate feedback and adjustments.
High-resolution and large field of view: Leo captures fine details while covering large areas quickly, ideal for comprehensive scanning of car exteriors and interiors.
Game-Changing Speed: at 35 million points per second, Artec Leo will win the race every time!

Artec Space Spider 3D scanner

High precision: Space Spider is designed to create accurate small objects with complex geometries and sharp edges, perfect for detailed components like gears and engines.
High accuracy: Delivers accuracy up to 0.05 mm, making it excellent for quality control and testing.
Fast scan speed: Capable of capturing data quickly, which is crucial in fast-paced production environments.

Artec Micro 3D scanner

Desktop 3D scanner: Micro is a metrology-grade desktop scanner that provides extreme precision, best for scanning tiny mechanical parts.
Fully automated: Its ability to automate the scanning process and deliver high-resolution scans with minimal operator input makes it highly efficient for repeated tasks.
Excellent resolution: With a point accuracy of up to 10 microns, it’s particularly useful for capturing the minutest details of smaller components.

Artec Ray and Artec Ray II Long-Range Laser 3D Scanner

Long-range capabilities: Ray can scan large objects from a distance, such as cars, trucks, and even entire manufacturing facilities, with high precision.
Minimal noise: This scanner produces extremely clean data with low noise levels, reducing post-processing time.
Versatility: Ideal for capturing data for large-scale applications like quality control of chassis and alignment of large assemblies.

Artec Eva

Versatile and user-friendly: Artec Eva 3D scanner is designed for quick, textured, and accurate data capture. It’s a versatile, light, and portable scanner that is ideal for capturing medium-sized objects like car components and interiors. Eva is a great option for those who want Leo, but have a tighter budget and can live without the built-in screen
Fast capture speed: Eva can rapidly scan large surfaces with a frame rate of 16 frames per second, making it efficient for frequent and extensive use in dynamic manufacturing settings.
No markers required: Eva works well in continuous scanning without the need for physical markers, which streamlines the setup and scanning process, especially useful for iterative testing and adjustments on prototypes.

These attributes make Artec 3D a powerful asset in the Mobility industry, from R&D and design to production and quality control, enhancing efficiency, and reducing the time and cost associated with traditional methods.

3D Scanning Software

It can be easy to focus on the hardware when discussing 3D Scanning, however the key to easy 3d scanning really lives on the software side. After all, great data is only great if the user has the time and ability to process the point cloud effectively.

Artec Studio

Artec Studio Software is a powerful, professional 3D scanning and data processing software developed by Artec 3D. 3D scanning with Artec Studio offers a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to both beginners and professionals in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and healthcare. The software supports the entire process, from scanning through to the final 3D model.

Benefits of Artec Studio:

Advanced Processing Capabilities: Artec Studio features powerful algorithms that help to clean up, enhance, and optimize 3D scans with minimal effort. Users can achieve precise results with tools designed for editing raw data, aligning and merging meshes, and advanced post-processing.
User-Friendly Interface: The software is designed with an intuitive user interface that makes it accessible for users of all skill levels. Its streamlined workflow allows for quick learning and efficient operation.
Compatibility and Integration: Seamlessly integrates with CAD software, providing a smooth workflow for reverse engineering and quality control. This allows users to export scans in multiple formats compatible with leading CAD applications.
Real-Time Feedback: Provides real-time scanning feedback, which is essential for making on-the-fly adjustments and ensuring the highest quality scans.
Automated Features: Offers automated processes such as auto-alignment and auto-meshing, which significantly speed up the scanning and data processing phases, reducing manual input and the chance for human error.

These features make Artec 3D solutions an essential tool for professionals looking to leverage high-quality scanners for the automotive industry.

Geomagic Software: Perfect for Reverse Engineering

Geomagic is the gold standard of reverse engineering and working with scan data. With tools like Geomagic Design X, users can create fully editable 3d models of any part from the 3D surface data captured by 3d scanners from Artec. A wide range of professionals are usings 3D scanners and software to get products to market faster than ever. From rapid prototyping to reverse engineering, a handheld laser scanner is only as good as the software used to process the data that it creates. The high-resolution 3D models from Artec 3D scanners precisely captures measurable 3D data for quality control applications as well.

3d Scanning for Automotive Applications Conclusion:

In conclusion, Artec 3D scanners represent a significant technological advancement in the automotive industry, offering a suite of tools that enhance every aspect of vehicle production and design. From the portable and powerful Artec Leo to the precision of the Artec Micro, each scanner is tailored to meet specific needs within the industry, ensuring that both large-scale assemblies and intricate details can be captured with exceptional accuracy. Furthermore, the integration of Artec Studio software with these scanners provides an efficient workflow, allowing for real-time feedback and advanced data processing capabilities. By incorporating Artec 3D scanning solutions, manufacturing companies can achieve higher quality standards, reduce production costs, and accelerate time-to-market, thus maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry. These innovative tools are not just changing the way vehicles are designed and manufactured; they are setting new benchmarks for excellence in automobile engineering.