3D Scanning and Design to Fit

Course Number:
MFG 242
Transcript Title:
3D Scanning and Design to Fit
Created:
May 01, 2026
Updated:
May 01, 2026
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Hours:
0
Lecture / Lab Hours:
66
Lab Hours:
0
Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No
Satisfies General Education requirement:
No
Grading Options
A-F, P/NP, Audit
Default Grading Options
A-F
Repeats available for credit:
0

Course Description

Builds on digital design skills by incorporating 3D scans of parts into the design workflow. Incorporates the operation of multiple kinds of scanning technology, and provides training on how each technology generates data. Includes the optimization of 3D scan data, bringing it into CAD software to reverse design parts, and/or record key datums needed when designing parts meant to fit with the scanned object. Audit available.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Use different kinds of scanning equipment and choose the right technology specific to part geometry.

  2. Operate 3D scanning equipment

  3. Prepare objects for accurate scanning.

  4. Optimize and use 3D scan data in CAD.

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

The determination of assessment strategies is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: writings (journals, self-reflections, pre writing exercises, essays), quizzes, tests, midterm and final exams, group projects, presentations (in person, videos, etc), self-assessments, experimentations, lab reports, peer critiques, responses (to texts, podcasts, videos, films, etc), student generated questions, Escape Room, interviews, and/or portfolios.

Department recommended assessment strategies:

  • Lecture and in-lab coaching and direct instruction.

  • Full class demonstration of skills.

  • Written exams

  • Student proficiency through demonstration of learned strategies and skills in industry standard environments

  • Job readiness based on performance

  • In class lab experiments and testing using the scientific process with written result reporting

Course Activities and Design

The determination of teaching strategies used in the delivery of outcomes is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: lecture, small group/forum discussion, flipped classroom, dyads, oral presentation, role play, simulation scenarios, group projects, service learning projects, hands-on lab, peer review/workshops, cooperative learning (jigsaw, fishbowl), inquiry based instruction, differentiated instruction (learning centers), graphic organizers, etc.

Department required activities: Cooperative learning, lecture-lab based experiential learning, guided learning pathways, peer review, hands-on lab, simulation, simulation scenarios, oral presentations.

Course Content

Outcome #1: Use different kinds of scanning equipment work and choose the right technology specific to part geometry.

  • Use blue laser light scanners, identify use cases
  • Use light refraction scanners, identify use cases
  • Use Lidar based scanners, identify use cases
  • Part geometry determination for scanning
  • Part color determination for scanning
  • Supporting equipment, processes and procedures

Outcome #2: Operate 3D scanning equipment

  • Create successful scans using different types of 3d scanners
  • Generate successful scan data using appropriate equipment and software for different types of 3d scanners

Outcome #3: Prepare objects for accurate scanning.

  • Markers
  • Scanning Spray
  • Positioners
  • Suspension
  • Rotaries
  • Orientation of Parts
  • Verify method with data cloud collection
  • Light control systems and settings

Outcome #4: Optimize and use 3D scan data in CAD

  • Cloud point data creation
  • Conversion of cloud points to solid structure
  • Conversion of cloud points to hollow structure
  • Data stitching from cloud points
  • Data accuracy from cloud points
  • Cloud point data file type conversions
  • Math for scaling and conversions
  • Importing of scans to appropriate CAD software

Suggested Texts and Materials

Use of listed Texts/Materials is not required unless so noted.

Department Notes

Safety glasses are required at all times in the manufacturing lab, and are provided for students. Students may also purchase their own safety glasses from a local supplier. Long pants and closed toed shoes are required in the manufacturing labs at all times. Appropriate clothing must be worn to work in the lab (no synthetic materials, ect.). Safety requirements are covered prior to work in the lab.