Hexagon 3D Scanner: Basics

The general workflow for 3D scanning is as follows:

1. Preparation - determine what you want to 3D scan
2. Make an appointment 
3. Get your part scanned at the appointment
4. Process the raw data
5. Revisit previous steps if necessary

Consider your intention and goals in 3D scanning your object(s). 3D scanning isn't magic -- it is a powerful tool but there is generally still a fair amount of post-processing involved.

Gather any part(s) that you want to scan. Please let us know if you are interested in scanning an over-sized part -- the 3D Scanner Lab is currently located in ENG 27, which is a relatively small room. You may also want to consider bringing support structures (e.g. stands, clamps, etc.) to hold your object in place.

By default, 3D scanning appointments are 1 hour. We recommend booking one appointment to start, as an initial consultation and scan, and then booking follow-up appointments as necessary. If the tech staff assisting you with your 3D scan is available beyond the scheduled appointment time, it is possible that the appointment can be extended, but this is not guaranteed.

You can make appointments online. Please select the 3D scanner category at the following link:

Bring your part(s) to the appointment. The assigned tech staff can help you mount/set up your part and will scan it for you.

You should also bring a USB drive or external hard drive to save your raw data.

You are generally responsible for post-processing your own raw data. We can offer some guidance/advice on how to use the software. There may be exceptional circumstances where we can process the data for you; please discuss this during your appointment to see if it is possible.

Regarding the software available for data processing (e.g. reverse engineering or quality control), please see the next page titled "Software".

You can also save the raw point cloud data and process it using software of your choice, depending on what you need for your application.

As mentioned earlier, 3D scanning is not magic. You may need to bring your part in to get scan again, or you may have to go through several iterations of post-processing. Please feel free to contact us for further consultation and/or to make another appointment for a scan.