3D scanning is a method of capturing an object's 3D properties as well as information. 3D scanning technology is regarded as one of the most effective instruments for inspection and quality control. 3D scanning is used for modeling, surveillance, quality control, and inspection, among other things.
3D scanning is of three types- laser scanners, structured light scanners, and optical scanners. These scanners are available in short-range scanners, mid-range scanners, and long-range scanners.
Market Drivers and Forecast
According to OMR Research, the Indian 3D scanning market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.8% during the forecast period. The high demand for quality inspection in industries such as aerospace and defense, industrial and manufacturing, tunnel and mining, architecture and engineering, power and energy, and automotive is driving market growth.
The aerospace industry demands precise parts and components; hence, 3D scanning is a perfect technology for use in aircraft construction and maintenance. In an industry where downtime is crucial, the speed with which 3D laser scanning can acquire data and CAD systems can alter it helps to eliminate material waste and human error while keeping aerospace production schedules and military deadlines on track. This illustrates the importance of 3D scanning in this industry. Hence, the growth of the aerospace industry will also boost the demand for 3D scanners. According to the ITA (International Trade Administration) report for 2022, the domestic aviation industry in India is predicted to reach $30 billion by 2024, making it the third biggest in the world. Domestic revenue passenger kilometers in India increased 32.3 percent year over year in March 2022, according to the International Air Transport Association. The Indian government has set a goal of boosting the country's airport capacity from 140 to 220 by 2025. There are also plans to build 33 new domestic freight ports and 15 new flying schools, as well as a greater emphasis on unmanned aircraft systems. According to Boeing, India will need an extra 2,500 passenger aircraft to fulfill this fast-expanding demand.
Besides, the healthcare industry has reaped significant benefits from using 3D scanning in its many operations. For instance, healthcare practitioners can also do a full body scan easily and rapidly thanks to 3D scanning. It has made significant contributions to the area by being used for research, patient care, and the development of individualized medical solutions. The speed, precision, and, most importantly, safety of different fixed and portable 3D scanners have enabled medical practitioners to use and leverage these cutting-edge technologies, dramatically enhancing existing procedures while establishing new ones. Custom healthcare solutions, such as implants, prostheses, back braces, and even personalized wheelchairs, have also become faster and easier to create. The necessary data can be simply acquired by a 3D scanner, processed in specialist 3D software, and then transferred for fabrication through a milling machine or 3D printer.
Recent Developments
The key companies in the market include 3D Systems Corp., 3idea Technology, Creaform Inc., Faro Technologies Inc., GIC Pvt. Ltd., Hangzhou Shining 3D, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, Pegs Co., RASCO Automotive Systems Pvt. Ltd., Tech Co. Ltd., and others. These companies are assisting in the market’s growth through various mergers and acquisitions, investments in research and development, and collaborations. Some of the recent activities in the market include-
• In January 2023, Image Optical Co. Vision Expert introduced the ZEISS VISUFIT 1000, a platform for determining 3D centration data, for the first time in Tamil Nadu, India. The features and benefits of the ZEISS VISUFIT 1000 include 3D Face Scanning for individual frame recommendations, 180 degree view frame comparison, and more.
• In January 2023, Shree Rapid Technologies (SRT), a leading provider of additive manufacturing and 3D scanning solutions in India, announced a collaboration with API Metrology India, a subsidiary of Automated Precision Inc., to provide a variety of laser-based metrology equipment for industrial calibration and inspection. API Metrology's solutions provide reverse engineering, inspection and alignment, production measurement, first article inspection, prototype inspection, calibration, and a variety of other procedures.
• In December 2022, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) of India announced plans to mandate the installation of new computer tomography (CT) scanners at airports across the country, removing the need for travelers to remove electronic gadgets from their hand luggage, according to PTI. The CT scanners, which would provide a three-dimensional image of the things in hand luggage, are supposed to speed up airport security check-in.