Creaform's Blog

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Reducing Warranty Claims Through Quality Control for Heavy Equipment Manufacturers

Heavy construction equipment refers to large, heavy-duty machines used in the construction industry for different purposes. This robust machinery includes excavators for digging and trenching, bulldozers for pushing soil and sand, loaders for transporting materials, backhoes for both digging and backfilling, cranes for lifting and moving heavy materials, dump trucks for hauling and dumping materials, motor graders for leveling and grading surfaces, compactors for compressing soil, pavers for laying surfaces, drilling rigs for creating holes, and concrete mixers for mixing and transporting concrete.

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Use of 3D scanner increases efficiency and reduces labor and material costs

Management and customers demand realistic implementation of individual welding processes at low costs. These costs are often caused by inefficient work processes, such as reworking due to excess or insufficient use of materials, or customer complaints.

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Do you have confidence in your 3D measurements? Are you certain they are accurate, repeatable, and reliable?

Do you ever question the accuracy and reliability of your quality control (QC) process? Do you ever doubt the quality of your measurement setup, especially if you are a non-expert in 3D scanning?

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Unveiling the Hidden Hurdles of Automotive Part Manufacturers

Manufacturing sheet metal is far from a simple task. It requires rigorous inspection, primarily due to the high quality and stringent safety standards required in the automotive industry.

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3D Scanning Helps with the Design of Engine Block Mounts

Zeppelin Baumaschinen GmbH has been a German based sales and service partner of Caterpillar Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of construction machinery, since 1954.

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Revolutionizing Design: INTAV’s Journey with 3D Scanning for Motorcycle Accessories

INTAV SRL is an Italian company with more than 30 years of experience in designing and manufacturing luminous and acoustic warning devices for emergency, rescue, and operative vehicles.

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Vehicle manufacturing company uses 3D scanners to increase design quality and optimize engineering times

The use of the Go!SCAN SPARK and VXmodel leads to significant improvements in the internal processes when carrying out projects at the Swiss company Sutter AG.

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MetraSCAN 3D helps to create pipeline machinery improvements

Thanks to the 3D scanner, SICIM SpA can detect complex geometries from machineries and their technical designers are supported in project developments.

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Production Control in the Casting Industry: Ensuring Component Geometries

GF Casting Solutions Altenmarkt GmbH & Co KG is one of the leading solution providers for lightweight components in the mobility and energy sector and operates, among other things, a light metal foundry for automotive components, structural parts and powertrain parts that are manufactured using the aluminum and magnesium die-cast process.

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Harnessing the Power of Fusion Energy, a Dream Becoming Reality with Precise 3d Measurements

Recreating the fusion reaction occurring in the Sun’s core here on Earth; this is the mission that scientists and engineers have taken up with ITER, one of human history’s most ambitious engineering projects.

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Results Revealed and Facts Exposed: Benchmarking Two 3D Scanning Metrology Solutions to Save Inspection Time

More time—this is a luxury that many people wish they could afford. What about engineers who work long hours to design and manufacture molds to produce automotive performance parts, such as engine devices, transmissions, and electronic controls? What would they do if they could save 85% of the time required for mold inspections?

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Jobs that took hours or days can now be done in minutes or seconds with the Creaform Go!SCAN 3D scanner

The TTK University of Applied Sciences uses the Go!SCAN 3D scanner in many projects for academic purposes by professors and students.

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3D Scanners: New Possibilities for Measuring Large Parts

Based in Boppard, Germany, BOMAG is a global manufacturer of construction machinery and a technology partner in road construction and earthwork operations. In addition to its main focus on…

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Using 3D Scanning in Art

3D scanning can be used to measure objects of art in order to assess their 3D dimensions accurately.

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3D Scans Without Limits of Shapes and Surfaces

Leading global transport solutions provider reduces its inspection times with the Creaform 3D scanner

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Scanning with MetraSCAN 3D is simple and can be performed by employees who have been with the company for only a few months.

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Sakai Increases the Efficiency of its Dimensional Inspections with a New Approach

High-speed, high-precision 3D scanner greatly streamlines the measurement work of wood model makers, which is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Many companies are now accelerating their efforts to reform…

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3D scanning for reverse engineering and the QC of cast parts in the pump industry

An on-site demo of the Go!SCAN SPARK at Hidrostal’s facilities made a particularly good impression as it enabled the team to save several hours compared with the technology the company had been operating, and, on top of that, it was also easier to use.

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Complete vehicle measurement of a BMW GT3 racing car

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Using 3D Measurement Systems to Assess the Performance of a BMW GT3 Race Car

– Highest scanning accuracy at maximum speed – In motorsports, a measurement system must be able to provide accurate information about the condition of a race vehicle very quickly so…

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Looking at Every Opportunity to Stay Ahead of the Competition

Following the example set by the FIA, M-Sport saw the need to introduce 3D scanning to control the body shell’s accuracy and ensure that the car met regulatory requirements. After all, winning performances often occur by pushing as close to the limit as practical while remaining compliant with regulations. 3D scanning proved to be the technology required to reach this balance.

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MetraSCAN 3D Scanner beim Scannen eines Blechteils. Im Hintergrund sieht man die Echtzeiterfassung des Scans auf dem Laptop.

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How Creaform Met the Need for Enhanced Accuracy, Versatility, and Efficiency of voestalpine Stahl GmbH

As one of Europe’s major steel producers, the voestalpine Stahl GmbH is the lead company of the Steel Division and a supplier that renowned automotive manufacturers and other manufacturing companies can rely on. The Austria-based company also manufactures heavy plates and cast products for the most challenging conditions in the energy industry and provides customized solutions for expanding renewable energy.

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Becoming the Leading Provider of Metrology Laser Scanning for NDT in Scotland: A Case Study Featuring Matrix Advanced NDT Inspection Services Ltd

Recently, Matrix approached MSL to offer a new 3D scanning service for both inspection and reverse engineering across a wide range of industries. They also saw the potential of providing this new 3D scanning capability to external companies, as this would increase their return on investment (ROI).

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Québec-based art virtuoso accomplishes stunning creative feats with Go!SCAN 3D

Cynthia Coulombe Begin is a renowned Québec painter and artist who started her professional career in 2006 by paying tribute to the aesthetics of the human body. Her first exhibit, Traces corporelles, took place at the Marius-Barbeau Museum and was acclaimed by local art critics.

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Creaform 3D Scanners Helped Ford Restore Michigan Central Station

The history of the iconic Michigan Central Station reminds us of the story of Detroit. The rail station, first opened in 1913, once symbolized the city’s effervescence with its grand lobby’s never-ending symphony of train arrivals and departures. Starting in the 60s, however, its activities began to decline and the station closed permanently in the late 80s.

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3D scanner allows flexible measurements of wind turbines and their components

Siemens Gamesa was looking for a 3D scanning system to take exact, agile measurements of wind turbines and their components so that they could be analyzed and processed using CAD software. The main goal was to dispense with traditional and inaccurate measuring tools such as tape measures and gauges, in favor of a more agile and precise method.

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Measuring a Junkers JU 52 NG

JUNKERS Flugzeugwerke in Widnau achieved its first major milestone with the airworthy replica of a Junkers F13. In September 2016, this dream came true with the maiden flight of a replica of the first all-metal commercial aircraft, which has been delighting aviation enthusiasts around the globe ever since.

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Construction: Measurement of Test Specimens and Evaluation of Imperfections

The Chair of Metal Structures at the Technical University of Munich has been contributing to the development of steel and light metal structures within the construction industry for many decades. There is a long-standing tradition in the areas of bridge design, stability, construction, composite structures, fatigue and glass works.

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3D Laser Scanners: A Buyer’s Guide for Professionals

3D laser scanners are a hot topic these days. 3D laser scanning is an advanced technology with a market growth forecasted by some reports to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2021 to 2026. Other research indicates that the 3D laser scanner market will likely reach $16.66 billion by 2030.

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Fast and precise reverse engineering of spare parts for mattress innerspring production

AGRO Tooling Systems GmbH specializes in the manufacture of spare parts for mattress innerspring machines. In addition to contract manufacturing, mechanical engineering with in-house design has now become an important pillar of their business.

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From Scan to Reverse Engineering: 3D Scanner Guarantees Seamless Process

The ability to quickly achieve accurate dimensioning of components of any shape and size with a 3D scanner was for AADS a key factor to choose a Creaform scanner.

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Plastic blow molding company reduces process time by 50% with 3D scanning

With the handheld HandySCAN 3D scanner from Creaform, Blowtech can quickly carry out inspections and measurements of its plastic molded parts in various places.

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3D scanner expands quality assurance services

Rohde & Schwarz uses the HandySCAN 3D for quality control, measuring vehicle interiors, inspecting free-form surfaces, and additive manufacturing processes

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Innovative 3D scanners for a competitive edge in automotive design

Automotive manufacturers and suppliers around the world have used portable 3D scanning systems for product development, vehicle design and quality assurance. Everything from individual components to complete vehicles can be measured.

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3D Scanner Helps to Develop Stylish Classic Furniture

Angelo Cappellini, producer of essential and timeless furniture, relies on Go!SCAN 3D when it comes to developing exclusive furniture drawings.

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Digitalization of dark and shiny plastic components

NIFCO Germany GmbH develops and produces interior components for the automotive industry. The company’s parts are installed by leading international car manufacturers.

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3D Printed Parts: Scanning Evaluation Became the Norm in Most Projects

The HandySCAN 3D allows APWORKS, who is part of the AIRBUS Group, to have an effective and fast evaluation of the quality of their manufactures 3D printed parts.

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Go!SCAN SPARK versus HandySCAN 3D|SILVER and BLACK Series

A guide through the differences between the HandySCAN 3D | BLACK and SILVER Series, and the Go!SCAN SPARK 3D Scanners, to get a better idea of which 3D scanner is the best choice for your needs and applications.

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Deep dive into the world of 3D scanners and 3D measurement technologies

Explore 3D measurements and various 3D metrology systems Metrology, including 3D measurement technologies and 3D scanners, is taking the manufacturing, NDT, quality control and educational sectors by storm. For example,…

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Scanning Technology’s Impact on the Quality Control of Steam Headers

Babcock is trusted to deliver—and trusts Creaform’s easy-to-use scanning technology to carry out quality control workflows for its manufactured parts. With more than 125 years’ experience, Babcock is one of…

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Top 3 Reasons why 3D Scanning Makes Sense for Aftermarket Industries in 2019

Aftermarket industries are facing numerous challenges in 2019. Many disruptors, including shifting competition, channel digitalization, and increasing quality and compliance requirements, are forcing aftermarket industries to address these challenges with…

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Cipax’s New Boat Launch: Using Scan-to-CAD Workflows to Accelerate Time-to-market

Cipax is a European-based company that specializes in developing, manufacturing and selling products and systems using rotational molding and eco-friendly materials. Rotational molding is a cost-effective means to produce low-volume…

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Staying Ahead of the Curve: ACE Technology

ACE Technology was founded in 2004 in the UK, with a mission to offer best-in-class composite material manufacturing services. The first industry it served was motorsports, a demanding sector that…

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MetraSCAN 3D Scanner Helps to Restore the Prague Astronomical Clock

Restoration and History From January to the end of October 2018, the Old Town Astronomical Clock in Prague underwent a restoration project. The goal of the restoration work was…

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3D Scanning: The Solution to Streamline Your Product Development Processes

All industries need to think ahead and build better products as fast as possible. On the other hand, they have to make sure the components are in compliance with the…

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No Stone Unturned in Pursuit of Excellence: HandySCAN 3D scanner increases measurement efficiency

CMS Cepcor® Ltd. based in Coalville, UK, is Europe’s largest aftermarket manufacturer and supplier of premium quality crusher, screen, and asphalt plant spare parts. The company provides products and services to…

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3D Scanning Anywhere: Accuracy vs. Snowboarding

We already know that our 3D scanners work great in labs… And that our clients use 3D laser scanners for a really wide variety of very demanding applications. But…

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London’s Natural History Museum: A Blue Whale 3D Scanning Project

3D scanning project of a blue whale’s skull for the Natural History Museum in London.

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Tuning Industry: Creaform Creates a Brand New Market Opportunity

It’s a well-known fact that in Australia, like in England, people drive on the left side of the road, therefore the cars are configured to be driven right sided. While…

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The HandySCAN 3D to Assess Hail Damage

Perhaps among the most unpredictable and sudden of weather patterns, it is well known that hail can cause important disturbance. Broken windows, seriously dented cars, house shingles transformed into Swiss…

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Efficiency for pipeline integrity assessment!

Blog post updated on May 29th 2018 for Pipecheck’s latest features. How do you measure the efficiency of a pipeline inspection process? Do you look at a single portion of a process…

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A world of challenges – The Creaform customers speak a common language

Recently I was given the opportunity to work for a few of our customers in Europe for a few months, based from our Grenoble office in France. I jumped on…

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When 3D scanning goes glamour – the Jenn Barlow’s bubble head project!

In my current job as an applications specialist with Creaform, I’ve been asked to scan, inspect and reverse engineer a lot of very different mechanical parts, using any and all…

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3D scanning a steam turbine in Mexico in steaming hot weather!

Last February, I was lucky enough to escape Quebec City’s harsh winter season for a while and fly to the warm Altamira region of Mexico in order to complete a…

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Rock-solid jig probing in shaky production environment

While carrying out a recent project that I was assigned to, I witnessed firsthand the benefits of Creaform’s HandyPROBE optical and portable CMM over mechanical CMM like Romer or Faro…

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The MetraSCAN 3D for automotive applications: 3D scanning right on the shop floor!

A major automotive manufacturer asked Creaform to 3D scan robot hands on their production line. This kind of tooling is used to manipulate embossed sheet metal that will be used…

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Product designers using 3D scanners for product development – from dream to reality!

3D found its way into different steps of the product design process, and has for many years. Whether it is for 1st developing the preliminary concept, proceeding with the ergonomics…

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3D Scanning Challenge: Scanning as many car compartments as quickly as possible with a Go!SCAN 3D

I’m a rookie application specialist at Creaform, and my 1st mandate was to carry out a project for a company specializing in the manufacturing of automotive accessories. The company requested…

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British pipeline owner Centrica falls for Creaform’s Pipecheck solution

I travelled to the tiny British town of Barrow-in-Furness, I have done my first training on how to use Creaform’s Pipecheck solution for pipeline integrity assessment with the Rugged Field Pack. The customer,…

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Inspecting parts in a lousy location: how to get around using a PCMM!

A major manufacturer of recreational products and regular client of Creaform mandated us to validate the new drilling jigs for their new plant located in Mexico. This project included the…

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The HandyPROBE – a reliable crewmember you can count on!

Last week, Quality Digest and the Coordinate Metrology Society joined forces to celebrate the World Metrology Week, that started Monday, May 20th. For the occasion, Creaform contributed a success story…

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Refresh on the MaxSHOT 3D coordinate measuring system for photogrammetry

Here’s a video we digged up from our archives about the MaxSHOT 3D (you can actually add photogrammetry capabilities to your Creaform technos by using a MaXSHOT 3D with them)….

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The Go!SCAN 3D Featured on Quality Digest’s LIVE TechCorner

The Go!SCAN 3D was the “guest” of Quality Digest’s LIVE TechCorner, hosted by editor in chief Dirk Dusharme.

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3D Scanning of Frog Castings

Based in the Czech Republic, DT is a leader manufacturer of turnout structures for railways, undergrounds and tramway tracks. Using a Handyscan 3D portable self-positioning 3D scanner from Creaform, DT…

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The Go!SCAN 3D is off to a very good start!

The newest member of the family is receiving a great welcome from the industry since its unveiling last week. We don’t mean to brag, but, it’s even said to be…

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What a beauty shot!

Ok, the article is on the thin side, but you know what they say: “An image is worth a 1000 words”. Well, this 2-page wide shot surely’s worth a few thousands!! This…

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BOEING 737 – Enhanced Interior Design Through 3D Imaging

An international company and global leader in business aviation service has turned to 3D modeling of the plane’s interior to design, produce, and assemble Boeing 737 BBJ2 furnishings. The project…

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Creaform and Camoplast: Jig Control During Production

Camoplast’s Polymer Solutions group is a leading provider of thermoplastics and Thermoset systems, as well as components for premium manufacturers and motor vehicle OEMs. Camoplast’s Roxton Falls division was looking…

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Enhancing 3D Scanning with Photogrammetry

It was to be expected that we would talk a lot about photogrammetry after we’ve launched the MaxSHOT 3D optical coordinates measuring system. But it’s OK, since what we have…

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Creaform Technologies – 2 newcomers!

We have had a pretty busy year so far, and we have worked very hard to enhance our products and develop new ones. September has seen 2 new product launches: the…

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Handyscan 3D Product Manager Daniel Brown Strikes Again

We’ve got another excellent article published in the July edition of Quality Magazine. On the model of “Cooking for Dummies”, Dan wrote about the basics of 3D optical measurement technologies,…

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MOCAP: An important invention for movie and video game industries!

Motion Capture is the term used to describe the process of recording movement and translating all the movements into a computer graphic model. The MOCAP is used to enhance the…

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Creaform’s acquired long range scanner

Boats fabrication has always been very traditional using well established processes and has always been reluctant and slow to incorporate new technologies. However we recently see a bloom of interest…

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HP, Stratasys and what it means for 3d

Last week, computer giant Hewlett-Packard has announced a partnership with the 3D printer manufacturer Stratasys. Under this agreement, Stratasys will develop and manufacture for HP an exclusive line of 3D…

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3D is ready to take center stage

You’ve all heard the buzz over Avatar over the Holidays for a number of reasons, the sheer budget of the film being one. However, what’s directly interesting us is the…

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A Long Range Coincidence… or is it?

For this time, I’d like to go with a personal experience. I’m just back from Dassault Systemes Consumer Conference in Orlando, FL (DSCC 2009) followed by the VAR Symposium and…

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Scanning Big in the South Pacific

I just completed what is probably my largest benchmark project so far. I had to fly “down” to the South Pacific where I met up with Ricardo Mauer from Metronom…

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3D Hardware