Using 3D scanning to drive supply chain innovation

3D scanning and supply chain

​3D scanning is changing how we view, understand, and interpret the tangible world around us. By absorbing an environment or an object into a virtual space, a deeper and more thorough understanding can be achieved. Models can be developed with higher precision, design processes can become more efficient, and difficult to access areas can be easily viewed.

Recent advances in 3D scanning technology have the potential to yield benefits in a number of industries and drive cost savings across the supply chain. The primary benefits of 3D scanning, are improved scanning accuracy, product customization (by modifying the digital representation of the original), and scanning speed. The increased speed of design, maintenance, and repair afforded by 3D scanning technology will enable additional opportunities for innovation in the supply chain.

Deloitte recommends: Successful adoption of 3D scanning technology is demonstrated by the impact it makes on the overall supply chain. For maximum impact, it is imperative that the adoption of 3D scanning aligns with the imminent technology needs of the supply chain. The technology needs of the supply chain are articulated in the supply chain strategy, which should be in lock step with the overall corporate or business unit strategy. The choice of 3D scanning solution will depend on the bottleneck that is being addressed and will then necessitate a change to the associated processes, workforce and technology systems. As 3D scanning technologies continue to advance, companies should explore and experiment with ways to utilize this technology to deliver unique capabilities and benefits for their business.

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Smarter scanning across industries

The technology used in 3D scanning has evolved greatly over the last few decades. All three components of the scanner—computing system, photodetector, and light source—are becoming more and more technologically advanced and producing more accurate scans. As the technology is popularized, it is becoming more cost efficient to manufacture and distribute as well. Recent developments in handheld 3D digitizers and robust 3D printers have created an evolutionary boom within the 3D scanning marketplace.

As a result, industries are benefiting from greater accessibility and capabilities of 3D scanners:

• Life sciences: 3D scanners can readily scan and image a human body, enabling more accurate and cost-effective customization in a number of use cases where products must be individualized.
• Consumer products: 3D scanning is making modeling and design capabilities available to the masses. With new technology, smartphone owners are now able to take accurate scans of objects using just their mobile devices.
• Construction: High-end scanners enable rapid surveying, site modeling, and layout design. With accurate and quickly produced scans, structural designing can be completed more quickly. In addition to user-operated devices, 3D scanning technology has the potential to be a key component in service robotics.
• Media and entertainment: 3D scanners are used to create digital models for a variety of purposes, such as video games and virtual cinematography. 3D models are quickly and accurately created by scanning real-world objects, including actors, instead of creating the models from scratch.

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