3D Scanning Studio
Greater Manchester: Send parts for 3D Scanning
On-site 3D scanning in Greater Manchester is unavailable
We offer In-house 3D scanning for items sent and returned via courier
As we are based in the West Midlands, we are unable to provide on-site scanning services in your area at this time. However, we do offer 3D scanning services for items from Greater Manchester that can be sent to us via courier. Our professional metrology-grade 3D scanning services provide precise data to accurately digitise real-world objects and assemblies.
Why Work With Formeon?
Formeon are experts in high-precision 3D geometry capture and detailed reverse engineering services. We proudly lead the way in 3D scanning and reverse engineering, delivering exceptional quality and precision in transforming physical objects into digital formats for a wide range of applications. Our services, supported by state-of-the-art scanning technology and expert engineering expertise, cater to the varied requirements of different industries, including part inspection and reverse engineering.
Accurate & Powerful Data
3D scan in our studio
Comprehensive Inspection
Scan to CAD Geometry
Our services
Digitise reality
3D Scanning
3D scanning digitises physical objects and creates precise 3D models. It's invaluable for design and reverse engineering, allowing detailed form capture and part analysis that would be unfeasible to measure by hand. 3D scanning enhances quality control when used to accurately compare parts to CAD designs ensuring manufacturing precision. We can also support in preserving cultural artefacts through non-intrusive methods of study and recreation.
Scan to CAD
Reverse Engineering
Engineering teams and designers use reverse engineering for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness in reproducing, designing or preserving real-world components. It generates usable CAD models, supporting development, analysis, or manufacturing processes. We excel in capturing intricate details and complex surfaces, leading to significant time and cost reductions and minimising the potential for human errors in measurements and replication.
3D Scanning Benefits
We 3D scan objects and assemblies for measuring, inspection or referencing purposes across many sectors and industries. Here’s how we help.
- Reverse engineering
- Part inspection
- Reference model creation
- Fast, accurate and reliable data
Maximise Resource
Remove the unreliable and challenging drain on resource of measuring or recreating complex surfaces and parts by hand
Reliable Data
Utilising metrology grade 3D scanners ensures more reliable results than error-prone hand measurements, capturing data points quickly and precisely.
We've worked with
Why reverse engineer parts?
Generate CAD From a 3D Scan
An efficient, cost-saving method to fabricate CAD data at a manufacturing level when there is no pre-existing data.
Restore Design Intent
Restore worn faces, warped walls or broken features and bring a part back to its original specification.
No Reliance on Hand Measurement
Digitally capturing the features of an object removes the need for complex and often error-prone and time-consuming hand measurement.
Contact Formeon
We work in many industries and undertake many different projects. If you're based in Greater Manchester and can send your parts to us, reach out and we'll be able to support you.
Broad competance
Industries we serve
We get involved with many different sectors 3D scanning many different parts, artefacts or assemblies. We can 3D scan large objects such as boats and vehicles down to smaller parts like gears or key fobs.
Aftermarket & Motorsport
- EV or bespoke vehicle conversions
- Performance parts
- Out-of-production parts
Medical & Healthcare
- Orthotics and prosthetics
- Custom mobility products
- Compression garments
3D Scanning a Part
Acquiring data
How we work
Successful 3D scanning requires a solid understanding of the project requirements and a blend of technical adaptability and robust client collaboration. These components collectively guarantee that the scanning procedure is efficient and produces data that is valuable and meets the requirements.
Part Review
We begin by understanding what the data will be used for as this will influence the next stages and ensure any scanning done is comprehensive yet cost-effective. We also review the part's size, material and complexity.
Setting Up
We create and implement a scanning strategy to ensure we capture all required surfaces and features. We then get started randomly applying scanning targets or reference artefacts to make sure the 3D scanner will be well-referenced in 3D space.
3D Scanning
After ensuring our 3D scanner is freshly calibrated we begin the scan. As if digitally spray painting the part, we make sure we scan every area that needs data collecting. This is then fed to our computer as a point cloud so we can work on it in the next step.
Post Processing
When we have captured all the geometry we need the data is converted from a point cloud to a mesh and is then cleaned up removing scanning artefacts and any areas of geometry or background surfaces. Is it from here we either supply clean mesh data or we move on to reverse engineering.
3D Scanning Examples
Nissan 370z Rays Wheel
Using a 3D scanner captures information at such a rapid pace it is hard to imagine ever creating this information by hand. Using our scanner, we’re able to capture the compound-curving surfaces of the 19″ alloys and tyres in extreme detail.
This was all done without the need for sprays or special tricks to capture the glossy surfaces or black, energy-absorbing rubber.
Applications
- Assembly fit and clash analysis
- Geometry replication and reverse engineering
- Quality control and inspection
Titanium Wheelchair Frame
Titanium, known for its strength and lightness, is ideal for crafting durable, lightweight wheelchair frames.
This process ensures accurate replication or modification of the frame, enhancing the wheelchair's functionality and comfort for users, crucial in mobility aids. 3D scanning thus plays a vital role in customising and improving these essential assistive devices.
Applications
- Digital archiving of unique frame designs
- Enhanced user fit and comfort
- Analysis of competitor frame geometries
- Quality control and inspection against design specifications
VW Amarok Grille
3D scanning parts to an accuracy of less than half the thickness of a human hair means the data you get can be used in confidence and create parts that require tight tolerances for quality control or fitment.
We 3D scanned a VW Amarok grille and were able to capture its complex form, intricate assembly clips and deep pockets that some scanning technologies simply cannot reach.
Applications
- Help design perfect-fitting after market products
- Make sure bodywork modifications work within an overall assembly
- Production quality inspection
Gearbox Input Shaft
3D scanning of a gearbox input shaft, a critical component transferring power from the engine to the gearbox, enables exact digital replication for reverse engineering and accurate reproduction or redesign.
Essential for quality control, it provides detailed dimensional inspection to ensure manufacturing precision. This process is also vital for maintenance, analysing wear patterns on the shaft, which is fundamental to guide effective upgrades and enhance gearbox performance.
The non-intrusive, accurate, and efficient scanning process ensures the integrity and functionality of this key mechanical element.
Applications
- Analyse wear and tear
- Reverse engineering for part reproduction
- Dimensional inspection for QC
Get in touch
3D Scanning Services
Seeking detailed and accurate 3D models for your engineering projects? Reach out or use our contact form, and discover how our tailored 3D scanning and reverse engineering services can streamline your workflow.