On-site 3D scanning and measurement in Gauteng

Why there is no scanning charge

Scanning and CAD modelling are part of assessing and developing the replacement, rather than separate items on the invoice. This allows the geometry and manufacturing price to be reviewed before any money is committed to a physical part.

The digital model remains the property of Lycan Core. If the CAD file itself is required, its release can be quoted separately before work starts.

How the measurement process works

1. Send photographs and dimensionsStart with clear photographs of the part next to a ruler. Include the main dimensions, where the part is used and how the original failed. A written assessment will follow within 24 hours.
2. Measure the part on siteFor suitable jobs in Gauteng, the part can be measured where it is installed. There is no call-out fee, and an entire machine or vehicle does not need to be transported for assessment.
3. Capture and verify the geometryAn iPad Pro LiDAR scan records the overall form. Critical dimensions, holes, mounting points and interfaces are measured by hand because a scan alone is not enough for a reliable fit.
4. Build the CAD modelThe part is modelled in SolidWorks, Inventor or Fusion 360. The model and a firm manufacturing price are presented before any final part is made.
5. Check the fit before final manufactureWhere fit is critical, an inexpensive PLA test piece is produced first. The final material is then selected for the actual load, temperature and operating environment.

How accuracy is checked

The current scanner is an iPad Pro using LiDAR. It is useful for capturing overall form and larger curved surfaces, but it is not treated as a complete dimensional inspection system. Fine features and critical interfaces are measured separately by hand.

No blanket accuracy figure is published because the achievable result depends on the size, surface and accessibility of the part. Where fit matters, the CAD model is checked against manual measurements and a PLA test fit is used before the final material is committed.

Service area

On-site work is available throughout Gauteng, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Midrand, Centurion, Ekurhuleni and Kyalami. There are no sub-area rates, travel charges or minimum orders for the initial visit.

Manufactured parts can be sent anywhere in South Africa. Projects outside Gauteng can often begin from photographs and dimensions; further guidance is available under obsolete and discontinued part replacement.

When another process is a better fit

• Production quantities in the thousands are generally better suited to injection moulding or another production process.
• Safety-critical or certified load-bearing parts require the appropriate engineering analysis and formal sign-off before manufacture.
• Very small precision features may require a different measurement method or access to the physical part.

Commercial terms

The assessment, site visit and CAD modelling are free. The CAD model remains the property of Lycan Core unless file release is agreed separately. A firm manufacturing price is supplied before any physical part is made.

Prices are quoted in rand and payment is by EFT. Enquiries are answered within 24 hours.

Examples of completed work

Completed projects are documented with the measurement method, CAD process, material, printer and development issues. See the job record for current examples.