How to 3D Scan Inside SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is an impressive 3D modeling software widely used in the engineering and design industry. While it excels in creating 3D models from scratch, there are times when you need to work with existing physical objects. In these cases, 3D scanning technology and software come to the rescue. In this article, we'll show how to 3D   scan inside SOLIDWORKS using the Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS add-in.

What is Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS?

Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS is a tool that allows users to work with 3D scanned data directly within the SOLIDWORKS environment. It is a valuable tool for reverse engineering and other applications where incorporating real-world objects into your digital design workflow is essential. There are other software programs for processing scan data that operate similarly. For a comparison, check out this blog article: Choosing Reverse Engineering Software: Creaform & Geomagic Considerations.

Which 3D Scanner?

You'll need access to a 3D scanner to capture the object or scene you want to work with. Popular 3D scanners include handheld devices from Creaform, Artec 3D, and Peel 3D.

Scanning Inside SOLIDWORKS: Getting Started

1. Connect your 3D scanner to your computer and make sure it has power and the proper OEM software associated with your scanner is installed and up to date.
2. Open SOLIDWORKS and create a new part or open an existing one. Then, go to the "Geomagic" tab on the SOLIDWORKS CommandManager.
   
   
   
   
3. Select the Settings option to connect the correct device to your software.
   1. Under Active Device select the OEM from the drop-down list of the scanner you connected.
   2. You could change the units to inches or millimeters here as well.
      
      
      
      
4. Select the Connect option to activate your scanner.
   
   
   
   
5. Finally, select Scan to create a new mesh with your connected 3D scanner.
   
   
    
   
   
   

Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS provides powerful alignment tools that help you position and orient your scan data accurately. After alignment, you may need to clean up and optimize the scan data. The software offers various tools for removing noise, filling holes, and smoothing the mesh. Depending on your project requirements, you can convert the scan data into solid geometry within SOLIDWORKS using the additional tools provided by the Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS add-in.

Now that you have the scan data in your SOLIDWORKS environment, you have other possibilities for leveraging the data besides making a solid body.

You can use the scan data as a reference, mating feature, assemblies, interference checks, and more.

The Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS add-in opens up a world of possibilities for engineers and designers working with 3D scanned data. Whether you're reverse engineering, performing fit-ups, or simply incorporating physical objects into your designs, this tool can greatly enhance your workflow.

If you'd like to learn more about the reverse engineering solutions offered by GoEngineer, contact us.

Related Articles

Using Geomagic for SOLIDWORKS Deviation Analysis

Geomagic Design X: Features & Tutorials

The All-New Metrology-Grade Artec Point 3D Scanner

Why Choose 3D Scanning for Inspection

Understanding the Cost of Poor Quality Control in Manufacturing

VIEW ALL ARTICLES