FAQ
Have a question regarding our services and offerings? Have a look below, we might already have answers for you. If you don’t see your question below, please Contact Us.
Quotations vary depending on the project involvement and complexity. Please call us for quotes or email us with information on the vehicle (make-model-year) and if possible, include pictures of the exterior, interior, and the parts you would like scanned.
All laser scanners natively create data in polymesh format, such as .STL, OBJ, .DAE, .FBX, and .PLY. If your project requires formats such as .STP, .IGES, or .X_T, those are NURBS formats and additional processes are necessary, such as Reverse-Engineering.
We own three metrology-grade laser scanners, all engineered and manufactured in Canada. Our units are suitable for laser scanning small miniatures to extra-large objects. Our scanners use blue and red laser technology which offer the highest level of accuracy and quality.
Our scanner systems are fully portable and mobile, allowing us to scan on-location at your facility. We service and travel to all of Greater Toronto Area and Southern Ontario, from Niagara Falls to London, from Barrie to Oshawa.
What makes laser scanning different from other 3D scanning technologies?
Laser scanning operates by using a combination of cameras and lasers to take measurements from surface geometry through triangulation processes. The systems use precise positioning systems (either by reflective target stickers or tracking system, or both), which offers the highest level of accuracy and resolution among all major types of 3D scanning. Laser scanners are also most suitable for difficult surface finishes and complex geometry, such as mirror or chrome-like finishes and intricate details. Laser scanning is the recommended solution for all professional applications.
Structured light scanning work by projecting specially designed patterns via LED lights onto the object. The scanner, in conjunction with the software, creates calculations (often based on algorithms) by reading the pattern shone on the objects to generate the 3D model. However, structured light scanning does not offer the same level of precision and accuracy as laser scanning. Structured light scanning is often recommended for projects that require colour maps captured and is more suitable for small to medium sized objects and do not contain reflective or metallic surface finishes.
Photogrammetry scanning work by using software to build a 3D model based on high resolution photographs. Photogrammetry’s main benefits are the technology’s low cost and consumer accessibility. However, photogrammetry is not recommended for professional applications as it does not offer the same level of accuracy and quality as laser scanning (or structured light scanning). It is most suitable for human forms, statues, and hobby projects.
Lidar is a type of large format scanning suitable for expansive, environmental applications, such as architectural scanning, land surveying, and geographical mapping projects. Due to the technology’s intended usage, Lidar is not suitable for product or object scanning, like photogrammetry, structured light, or laser scanning.
Common questions regarding Reverse-Engineering:
Reverse-Engineering is the process of tracing the shapes and geometry from laser scanned data to create smooth, usable 3D CAD files for prototyping and manufacturing. It is a critical step for projects that require in-depth research and development, or engineering processes. For more detailed explanations on Reverse-Engineering please see this page.
If the scanned object is meant to be: recreated, replicated, prototyped, machined, manufactured, or precisely modified, reverse-engineering will most likely be necessary. There are many applications where reverse-engineering is not required or minimal amount is needed, such as: inspection, verification, analysis, positioning and placement mock-ups. Our team can offer tailored consultation for your project, please contact us for more information.
Among the major 3D formats, the two most common for digital fabrication are polymesh and NURBS. Polymesh models are represented by hundreds to millions of small triangles (much like a fish net). Polymesh is traditionally intended for CGI graphics and animation, due to their ability to optimize file sizes for rendering software. Polymesh is usually not a fluent format in major product design and engineering software. NURBS models contain geometry that are precisely defined by mathematical vectors, such as: lines, arcs, curves, surfaces, circles, etc. Due to the how NURBS models are dimensionally controlled, NURBS models can be read by machining software, scaled (larger or smaller) infinitely without quality loss, and certain measurement changes can be edited far more efficiently compared to polymesh. In order to get scanned data to be NURBS format, an additional phase is required, called Reverse-Engineering.
Point cloud format contain precise “dots”; often defined by a coordinate system (XYZ). The dots can be extremely accurate, but lack surface data like polymesh or NURBS. Laser scanning effectively provides millions of point cloud data, but represented as a mesh surface, which makes it useful for Reverse-Engineering and Rapid Prototyping. Point cloud is most frequently associated with engineering tools such as CMM probes. In addition to our metrology-grade laser scanners, we also have a cordless CMM probe that works with our system.
Common questions regarding 3D Printing:
3D printing technology range from hobby-grade machines to industrial-grade equipment. Depending on your project’s requirements, such as prioritizing cosmetic appearances versus functional strength, or resistance and durability against UV and chemicals, our team can offer specialized consultation on the most suitable process and material. Please see this page for more information on rapid prototyping or contact us for more information.
Depending on the project’s requirements and object’s usages, our team can provide recommendations on the most suitable materials. The following is a list of some of the materials we print with: high temperature and high strength polymer plastic, low-cost polymer plastic, rubber polymer plastic, high detail liquid resin, rubber and industrial resin, multi-coloured resin, multi-material resin, sintering polymer powder (Multi-Jet Fusion, MJF), and metals (stainless steel, nickel alloy).