The Importance of Propeller Inspection

The propeller is the heart of a ship, driving its movement through water efficiently. Any imperfections or damage to the propeller can significantly impact the vessel’s speed, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. Hence, regular inspection and maintenance are paramount in the maritime sector.

Limitations of Traditional Propeller Inspection Methods

Traditionally, propeller inspection involved using a pitchometer to measure the pitch and angle in the blade surface. This data is recorded by the inspection software via sensors and compared to set standard values (typically industry standard values). The inspection software we use in this case is TrueProp by TrueProp Software, LLC, USA.The inspector will also set tolerances according to ISO-484 standard and generate an inspection report.

While this method provided insights into the propeller’s condition, it had its drawbacks:

Firstly, considering the time consumption, the pressure face of the propeller is measured at several pre-defined locations. In other words, a pitchometer can only get a certain number of curves on the surface.

Secondly, using a pitchometer may be prohibitive for smaller operators. Digital pitchometer systems for propellers up to 80 inches can cost upwards of $100,000.

Thirdly, using a pitchometer consumed much time and labor because it required dismantling and mounting the propeller onto a specialized table for inspection. Inspectors scan 3 to 4 pairs of propellers roughly a day. Each propeller needs to be scanned and repaired, repeated approximately five times, depending on how bad the damage is.

3D Scanning Propeller for Inspection

Inspection of propellers became much more efficient when inspectors used an EinScan HX 3D scanner instead of a pitchometer to take measurements. By leveraging the next-generation mesh extractions in TrueProp Software’s Virtual Plugin and the existing ISO-484 tolerance reporting in TrueProp, the new process is especially useful for scanning large propellers.

Inspectors use EinScan HX to capture the surface data of the blade and then export the STL file to align with the coordinate system in the GOM inspection software. TrueProp Software can calculate the geometric properties of each blade by importing the data. The operator checks any differences between blades against the inspection standard, enabling them to inspect and analyze the difference between the respective curve and the target value of each blade. Finally, the system generates a report documenting the propeller’s condition in relation to the tolerance class grade.

Advantages of Using 3D Scanning Method

Firstly, inspectors can bring the EinScan HX on board for scanning due to its portability. This saves time by acquiring data directly from the propeller surface without disassembling or transporting the propeller to a specialist.

Secondly, the scanner has no limitation on the size of the propeller. And the combined cost of the EinScan HX and TrueProp software is under $30,000, far less than the cost of using a pitchometer.

Moreover, EinScan HX acquires data much faster and with more accurate results (0.04mm accuracy in laser mode).

After obtaining the 3D data of the propeller, the inspector can generate as many curves as he wants on the surface of the propeller in the software, inspecting it in all directions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the combination of EinScan HX 3D scanner and TrueProp software presents a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for propeller inspection in the marine industry. By adopting this advanced technology, ship operators can ensure optimal performance and safety standards for their vessels.

Want to experience how the EinScan HX 3D scanner and TrueProp software can help you streamline maintenance and optimize ship performance? Contact us for a free demo now!

The post 3D Scanning Propeller: A Highly Efficient and Economical Method for Inspection appeared first on EinScan.

Why Choose 3D Customized Car Foot Mats?

Firstly, they are tailored to fit the exact specifications of the car’s interior, ensuring a seamless integration with the original design. This snug fit enhances aesthetics while preventing shifting or sliding of the mats.

Secondly, with safety in mind, customized foot mats can be designed to increase safety by maintaining proper clearance from the pedals, reducing the risk of accidental interference while driving.

How to Customize Car Foot Mat Using 3D Scanner & 3D to 2D Flattening Software

Purpose: Customize a car foot mat

Tools:

● EinScan HX Hybrid Light 3D Scanner
● Wrapstyler 3D to 2D pattern making software

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the car foot mat customization:

Step 1: Laser Scanning with EinScan HX

Begin by utilizing the EinScan HX 3D scanner in laser mode to scan the foot mat area of the car thoroughly. The laser mode allows users to quickly capture detailed data of the foot mat area with high accuracy. It provides a good database for cutting the mesh.

Step 2: Importing 3D Data and Cutting the Mesh

Once the scanning process is complete, we seamlessly import the obtained 3D data into Wrapstyler. The software supports common formats such as OBJ and STL. The OBJ format is recommended because it preserves textures, which can be used to guide plane-cutting positions in specific cases. Wrapstyler’s interface is simple and intuitive, with a 3D view on the left and a 2D view on the right.

Utilize Wrapstyler’s powerful tools to cut and shape the 3D mesh data according to your desired design. This step allows for creating intricate patterns and customized shapes that perfectly fit the foot mat area.

Step 3: Flatten to 2D Patterns

The software intelligently flattens the 3D shapes into precise 2D patterns, providing a clear blueprint for the next steps.

Step 4: Deformations

Before proceeding with the actual cutting process, Wrapstyler enables you to inspect the fit between the 2D patterns and the foot mat area. Detect and address any deformations to avoid material wastage and ensure a perfect match between the design and the car interior.

Step 5: Add Seam Allowance

Enhance the practicality of your patterns by seamlessly adding necessary seam allowances. This step ensures a smooth transition from the 2D patterns to the final product.

Step 6: Drawing and Cutting by Machine

Prepare for production by exporting the finalized 2D patterns. The drawings can be directly used for machine cutting, ensuring precision and efficiency in the manufacturing process.

Step 7: Sewing

Complete the car foot mat customization process by sewing together the cut patterns. The accurately tailored foot mat can now be seamlessly integrated into your car interior, adding a personalized touch to your vehicle.

This step-by-step guide demonstrates a simplified process that illustrates how the EinScan 3D scanner and Wrapstyler 3D to 2D flattening software deliver a precise, efficient, personalized experience. For more details, check out our webinar. If you are interested in customizing your car’s interior and would like to be involved in the entire process, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

The post 3D Customized Car Foot Mat that Provide Complete Safety Enhancement appeared first on EinScan.

Project Background

With over 35 years of business experience and an extensive history working on Ferrari vehicles, Italian Design and Racing, based in Mesa, Arizona, is a custom fabrication and restoration company that specializes in Italian exotic cars. Their engineering team is using the EinScan HX Handheld 3D scanner to preserve a vintage racing car body which was placed on a more modern Ferrari chassis.

Chris Carpenter, lead technology engineer, talked about his experience with 3D technology and how the hybrid light source 3D scanner completely changed their workflow.

The lead technology engineer, Chris Carpenter

After a crash destroyed the original Ferrari 750 Monza Spyder body, an aspiring young car builder, Peter Monteverdi (a Swiss car maker and creator of the car brand Montiverdi) designed the first gullwinged door body to be used on a Ferrari chassis, which at the time was built by Sauter out of Switzerland in 1957.

The gullwing body had been kept by private collectors off of its original chassis. “We’re looking to restore the car body”, Carpenter said, “We’ve adapted a more modern Ferrari chassis and drive train to restore its bespoke look.” Therefore, the EinScan HX Handheld 3D scanner was a natural part of the project.

What Restorers Do with a 3D Scanner

Restorers not only need to scan the body and chassis to find the right installation point, but also need to scan various sizes and shapes of parts. Even a small error or misalignment can skew the assembly of the doors and chassis.

Scanning the car body with markers

Scanning the gull wing door

Advantages of Hybrid Light Source 3D Scanner

Since the EinScan HX Handheld 3D scanner can scan by features or markers, it has the flexibility to scan objects of any size. “The EinScan HX can use both laser and structured light, which helps us solve a variety of different types of projects and also helps us speed up our design work”, Carpenter said.

The laser is less sensitive to ambient light and performs better on reflective surfaces such as body panels, while the blue LED light allows for a rapid scan mode, quickly providing more interior and engine compartment data to test fit parts and better understand the clearance of custom parts. The combination of two light sources saves working time and improves efficiency.

Significance of 3D Scanning Results

The scanning data will have long-term consequences for the field of racing car restoration. The scans can be used by fabricators as a reference to assist in recreating the car’s original shape, saving time and resources in the event of damage done to the vehicle. It may also be used for additive manufacturing, through reverse design and 3D printing to make parts that are no longer in production or hard to find.

Scanning a car part of Ferrari

Click here to find out more about 3D scanners in the automotive field.

The post The Historic Project: 3D Reconstruction of a 1957 Ferrari Racing Car appeared first on EinScan.

Perhaps the biggest of those advantages is versatility. Because handheld 3D scanners can be moved to different positions around the scanned object, they can be used to scan large objects, hard-to-reach objects, and even objects located outdoors. And although these benefits come at the expense of a certain degree of accuracy — the manual movement involved in handheld scanning can have an adverse effect on point cloud data — many users find handheld scanning to be the ideal option for their professional needs.

Not all handheld 3D scanners work in the same way, however. In today’s market, the majority of scanners use structured light technology. These scanners project a pattern of light onto the scanned object and use cameras to see how these lines of light deform upon the object’s surface. Measuring these deformations allows the scanner to understand the 3D shape of the object. Other scanners, however, use laser scanning technology, which involves shining a laser onto the object and using sensors to measure the distance between scanner and object.

What to consider when choosing a handheld 3D scanner

The wide range of handheld 3D scanners on the market gives consumers a lot of options, but it also makes it harder to identify the most suitable product for their needs. When choosing a handheld 3D scanner, buyers need to consider many different factors, making an assessment of their options based on what the scanner will be used for. Needless to say, the right 3D scanner for a healthcare professional may not be the right 3D scanner for a mechanical engineer.

One of the most important specifications of a 3D scanner is its resolution, which can be defined as the distance between data points in a point cloud. Although not the be-all and end-all of scanning, many customers will choose their 3D scanner based on its resolution capabilities: high-resolution scanning paints a truer, sharper picture of the scanned object than low-resolution scanning, and is especially useful for small objects with fine features.

That being said, many scanning applications do not require high resolution in order to be practical. For instance, when scanning large objects like furniture and vehicles, users might be more concerned with scanning speed than resolution. Usually expressed in points captured per second, scan speed is equally valuable for applications like human body scanning, where the scanned object cannot remain stationary for too long, and for time-sensitive projects like outdoor scanning during adverse weather conditions.

Another factor to consider when buying a handheld 3D scanner is the scanner’s accuracy. Accuracy (not to be confused with precision) can be defined as the closeness of a scanned measurement to the true, real-life measurement. Accuracy is critical in scanning applications like quality inspection and reverse engineering, where an inaccuracy of just a fraction of a millimeter could cause problems down the line.

When choosing a 3D scanner, some factors are harder to quantify but are nonetheless equally important. A scanner’s versatility, for instance, can be loosely defined by its range of scanning resolutions, speeds, fields of view, and scanning modes. A more versatile scanner can be used for a broader range of applications and might suit buyers who need a scanner for more than one particular task.

Finally, a key consideration for anyone looking to buy 3D scanners is the price. More expensive scanners typically offer better resolution, speed, and accuracy, but buyers have to consider the most realistic options for their budget.

Priority: Versatile 3D scanning

When versatility is a high priority, buyers should look for a 3D scanner with portability, adjustable parameters, and multiple scanning modes. But for a scanner to be equally capable of scanning large and small objects, it must offer good resolution and scan speed as well.

One handheld scanner that is built for a broad range of scanning applications is the EinScan Pro HD. Modular and multifunctional, the Pro HD offers different scanning modes for different tasks:

1.Handheld HD Mode, capable of achieving a 0.2 mm point-to-point distance (resolution), captures the finest details with maximum clarity;

2.Handheld Rapid Mode processes up to 30 frames per second;

3.While Fixed Scan Mode (optional add-on) allows the Pro HD to be used as a static scanner for improved accuracy.

Another useful feature of the Pro HD is its projection algorithm, which can capture a range of textures, including hard-to-scan surfaces such as shiny metal or very dark-colored surfaces.

Due to its range of modes, features, and optional add-ons, the Pro HD is as suited to industrial reverse engineering as it is to capturing sculptures and historical artifacts.

Priority: 3D scanning small to medium-size objects

Some users don’t need their 3D scanner to perform a wide range of tasks. For those scanning items like archaeological finds, pieces of jewelry, healthcare models, or intricate mechanical components, the main priority for their 3D scanner is the ability to capture small or medium-size objects at high resolution. Such a scanner needs both high-resolution optical capabilities and a field of view suitable for small objects — usually achieved by having the cameras positioned close together.

The EinScan Pro 2X 2020 is a device purpose-built for scanning small and medium-size objects. With a suitable scan size of 3–100 cm and a minimum point distance of 0.2 mm, the Pro 2X 2020 boasts the fine-detail scanning capabilities of the Pro HD but in a more affordable package. Other useful features include color scanning (optional add-on) and various alignment modes.

For users who don’t need the ultra-fast or large-scale scanning ability of the Pro HD, the Pro 2X 2020 is a standout option.

Priority: 3D scanning reflective or dark surfaces

Structured light scanning is a fast and accurate technology suitable for many professional uses. However, the technology can run into difficulties when scanning surfaces that are reflective, transparent, or very dark. Such surfaces can distort the projected light patterns, which means the cameras are unable to collect useful information about the geometry of the scanned object.

For users who regularly need to scan dark or reflective surfaces — those working with cast metal, for instance — an alternative to structured light scanning may be required.

A suitable option for scanning dark and reflective surfaces is the EinScan HX. Equipped with both  LED and laser scanning hardware, the hybrid HX offers a set of capabilities entirely different to those of the Pro HD and Pro 2X 2020. Its laser scanning technology provides a very high level of accuracy (0.04 mm) and resolution (minimum point distance of 0.05 mm), and the device can capture the most difficult textures and surfaces with good results.

Suitable professional applications of the EinScan HX include reverse engineering and industrial metrology.

Priority: 3D scanning the human body

3D scanning the human body has proven to be a challenging task for developers and users of scanning technology. Firstly, it is difficult for a person to remain entirely motionless for the duration of a scan, which can cause irregularities in the scan data. Secondly, human hair — with its unusual texture, shininess, and range of colors — is notoriously difficult to scan.

In many situations, large fixed scanners with multiple cameras or revolving platters are used for body scanning, but handheld devices can also deliver good results. One 3D scanner in this category is the EinScan H, a full-color handheld scanner that uses both LED light projection and an infrared ray to capture bodies and other objects at high speed.

The EinScan H is packed with features that facilitate easy body scanning. For instance, the infrared ray — deployed during Face Scan Mode — causes less eye discomfort than a sequence of bright, flashing lights. Meanwhile, an optimized, non-rigid alignment algorithm during Body Scan Mode allows for smooth capture of the body even when it makes slight movements.

These features, coupled with a scan speed of 1.2 million points per second, make the H suitable for 3D modeling, VR, and gaming applications.

How to choose the right handheld 3D scanner

Choosing the right handheld 3D scanner involves two key steps. The first is to identify potential end uses for the scanner and determine the features and specifications that those cases require. For instance, if you plan to capture small, intricate parts, you will need a high-resolution scanner; if you plan to carry out body scanning, you will need color 3D scanning capabilities.

The second step in choosing a handheld 3D scanner is deciding whether any compromises must be made for the sake of keeping within a given budget. If a feature is desirable but not strictly necessary for the chosen application, then it may be worth going with a more low-cost solution that lacks additional features.

Potential future uses for the scanner should also be factored into the calculation (as should the scanner’s expected lifespan and trade-in/resale value). A higher-grade device may be worth the extra investment if, in the future, new applications arise for which its additional features can be exploited. For example, a company’s current workflow might involve capturing scans of miniature nylon components — a task suitable for a low-cost scanner like the EinScan Pro 2X 2020. But its scope of operation may later include highly reflective metal parts, for which a scanner like the EinScan HX would be better suited.

Finally, buying a handheld 3D scanner should involve research into the hardware manufacturer’s reputation. Shining 3D’s EinScan brand of 3D scanners is used by professionals across many industries all over the world. So whichever handheld scanner you choose, you’ll be getting a product that is proven to operate at the highest level.

The post Best Handheld 3D Scanners: Breakdown by Category appeared first on EinScan.

System Strobel is a commercial vehicle manufacturer specializing in ambulance, patient transport and emergency vehicles. Their main products are traditional box body constructions, converted vans and sedans, but also other specialized utility vehicles. Every vehicle, apart from motorization and power train, including furnishings is designed and manufactured in house by hand. System Strobel is exporting its products worldwide to paramedics, relief agencies, fire and police departments.

Part of the company’s DNA is relying on traditional handwork for almost every production-step. But staying true to their origins, innovation and digitalization are key factors of their evolution. So, recently the design department upgraded to an EinScan HX which they use to streamline the design and engineering process, since each vehicle is one of a kind and tailor-made for every client’s special needs.

Customizing an Audi A6 as an Emergency Vehicle

Exemplary we’ll have a look at the interior base construction of this brand-new Audi A6. This sedan once completed will serve an emergency response team, consisting of an EMT(Driver) and emergency doctor (Passenger) + additional equipment. ERT’s dispatch in conjunction with an ambulance to emergencies were an acute, life-threatening injury of a patient is present. Primarily it’s a transportation vehicle for the doctor, but it also houses a substantial amount of designated equipment, which not only needs to be stored securely but also easily accessible and functional in a highly intensive work environment. The most important part of the storage compartment is in the trunk, which contains a stainless-steel rail-based superstructure, divided into multiple heavy-duty drawers and containers.

EinScan HX: the game-changer

In the past, an engineer would take measurements of the entire trunk by hand with multiple measuring tools, to rebuild it digitally before designing the superstructure. A time-consuming, labor-intensive task prone to errors.

The EinScan HX has become a true game-changer for System Strobel as it uplevels the accuracy of measurement tremendously and reduces the time needed to collect and document all relevant characteristics of the trunk. Let´s take a look how customizing the trunk with the EinScan HX works.

The 3D Scan Process is taking place right next to the production line. 3D Scanner and Notebook, are conveniently placed on a rolling cart. The trunk is prepared by sticking Markers on the most relevant areas. For maximum precision and because of the very dark surface, Laser Scan Mode is selected. The resolution is set to 0.05 mm. Adjustments like brightness are made on the fly while 3D scanning. 3D scanning with the EinScan HX not only eliminates the reconstruction process, but also creates a blueprint for all measuring work later on.

After the complete trunk has been captured in 3D, the data is evaluated and exported on site. The point cloud is post-processed with Geomagic Essentials and exported as a STEP-File, to be merged into the CAD Software.

Back in the office, the 3D Design can start right away. The advantage of working with the Scan Data is that, for example, unusually shaped fasteners can be made with even greater accuracy and much less time.

After the blueprints are completed, the components are engineered and installed in-house.

System Strobel opted for the EinScan HX due to its unrivaled flexibility and price-performance -ratio. SHINING 3D can offer fast and reliable support through its EMEA office nearby. EinScan enables System Strobel to improve and digitalize their workflow while staying true to their craftsmanship of the highest-quality, ergonomic, safe and reliable vehicles and equipment saving lives every day.

The post Perfectly Equipped for Emergency With the EinScan HX appeared first on EinScan.

Not like other post-process function which only do a single operation, “Mesh Optimization” do both smooth and sharpen which will eliminate surface noise while keeping sharp details. You can choose the operation intensity from 0 to 100%. And you can do multiple iterations if not satisfied with current outcomes.

This function performs well when the original data has a small point distance. For example, here’s a part of the tires scanned with 0.2mm resolution.

From left to right are original data / 20% / 50%/ 100% optimization.

You can see that surface noise was well removed under 100% optimization, but the edges of the letters are still sharp.

However, on a large point distance model, the details are already blurred. Using high optimization intensity will cause detail loss. Here is an example.

Same intensity from left to right while the resolution is 1mm. You can tell that the details on feathers are hard to tell with 100% optimization.

All in all, we suggest using high intensity for high resolution and low intensity for low resolution. Hope this function can help you get a good scan result easier. And if the resolution is beyond 1mm, we do not recommend applying mesh optimization.

The post Instructions to Mesh Optimization appeared first on EinScan.

Erdenee´s company Darkhangeomach LLC specializes in the manufacturing of mining and heavy industry equipment, tools, and spare parts of heavy machinery.

To create 3D models of complex surfaces they compared 3D scanners and coordinate measuring machines. They opted for the EinScan HX due to its huge flexibility, precise results and attractive price.

Using the EinScan HX in conjunction with Geomagic Essentials and Solid Edge enables fast, efficient and cost-effective Reverse Engineering and product design.

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