PADT Adds 3D Scanners and Scanning ServicesPADT now sells and uses scanning technology from NDI, Inc., CGI, Inc. and Geomagic to convert parts into 3D computer geometry. This capability is critical to companies who need to inspect their parts or reverse engineering existing hardware.
By: Eric Miller Cross Sectional Scanning One of the most significant issues with traditional inspection of plastic components is that there is no good way to capture the internal shape of geometry. With coordinate measuring machines or laser scanning, you cannot measure features that are not visible from outside of the part. Cross Section Scanning (CSS) solves this by cutting very thin layers of material off of a part and scanning the cross section left after the cut. This gives a very accurate and complete representation of the part. Many customers who come to PADT for prototyping or injection molding consulting ask for a way to accurately inspect their complex plastic parts. After researching options, PADT found that the Cross Sectional Scanning systems from CGI are the perfect solution to this problem. "We looked at several options and time and again we came back to the CSS system," says Rey Chu, director of Rapid Prototyping at PADT. "The highly accurate layer scanning process allows the user to capture their entire part in an automated manner that is also incredibly accurate. With a line of four different sized machines, we feel confident that we can match the right machine to each customer's needs." The best way to learn more about Cross Sectional Scanning is to visit: http://www.padtinc.com/ Laser Scanning Using laser technology to scan parts into the computer is now a fairly common occurrence and there are many options available on the market. After trying a multitude of different devices, PADT felt that the VicraSCAN Handheld 3D Scanner from NDI was the best solution for their customers. The VicraSCAN is based on proven high-end scanning technology and uses a unique self-positioning technology that makes the device both accurate and truly portable. Simply plug it into a computer, place reference targets on the object, and scan directly into your choice of 3rd party software. Eric Miller, one of PADT's Co-Owners commented "There are a lot of small laser scanner systems out there, but when we really looked into it most of them were either inaccurate, they required the user to fix the part in space, or you needed to add reference geometry. The NDI system solved all of those problems and came in at an affordable price that we felt delivered the kind of value our customers expect." More can be learned at: http://www.padtinc.com/ Scanning Software The final ingredient to delivering a complete solution for part scanning was the addition of Geomagic Studio, Qualify, and Wrap to PADT's offering. "Our customers can now inspect their parts or create CAD models from scan data because the Geomagic suite of software delivers affordability, robustness, accuracy, and ease of use" said Mario Vargas, Manager of Hardware Solutions at PADT. Geomagic Studio can be used to clean and organize 3D scan data then convert it into a usable Solid Model. Users who need to inspect their parts against drawings can use Geomagic Qualify to create inspection reports. Lastly, users who need to make a physical prototype, computer animation model, or simulation model can use Geomagic Wrap to convert scan data into a faceted model. Together, all of these tools allow the user to realize the full value of their scanning investment. Additional information and useful links on Geomagic software can be found at: http://www.padtinc.com/ Sales and Service PADT is offering these tools as a reseller and a service provider, allowing our customers to have this capability in-house or to use PADT. This also allows customers to try the technology out before they make a purchase. As with all the products that PADT resells, it also means that when you contact PADT for support on a product you purchased from them, you know that your questions will be answered by an engineer or technician that actually uses the product on a day-to-day basis for real world problems. Learn More PADT is eager to share what we have learned while researching and choosing to sell these tools and help users to better understand how to apply this technology. An open house on scanning will be held at PADT's Tempe, AZ office on May 9th, 2012 from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Everyone is welcome to stop by and see these devices in action and talk to PADT's engineers about the technology: What: When: Where: Who: Anyone interested in learning more about scanning tools and services Phoenix Analysis and Design Technologies, Inc. (PADT) is an engineering service company that focuses on helping customers who develop physical products by providing Numerical Simulation, Product Development, and Rapid Prototyping products and services. PADT’s worldwide reputation for technical excellence and an experienced staff is based on its proven record of building long term win-win partnerships with vendors and customers. Since its establishment in 1994, companies have relied on PADT because “We Make Innovation Work“ Learn more at www.PADTINC.com. # # # Phoenix Analysis & Design Technologies, Inc. (PADT, Inc.) is the Southwest's largest provider of mechanical simulation, product development, and rapid prototyping services and products. PADT is known around the world for their technical skill and speed. End
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