How can you use laser scanning to improve sports equipment design?

1 Benefits of laser scanning

Laser scanning offers numerous advantages over traditional methods of measuring and modeling objects, particularly when it comes to sports equipment. It is capable of capturing complex and organic shapes that are hard to measure with rulers or calipers, as well as scanning large and bulky objects that are difficult to move or transport. Additionally, it can scan multiple objects simultaneously for consistency and quality, and scan objects in various environments and conditions, such as outdoors or underwater. Furthermore, laser scanning can be done without touching or damaging delicate or valuable items.

2 Applications of laser scanning

Laser scanning can be used for various applications in sports equipment design, such as customization, performance, and innovation. With customization, you can scan your own body or a specific part of it and use the 3D model to create a personalized fit and comfort for your equipment. Performance scanning can be used to analyze and improve the aerodynamics, weight, balance, stiffness, or flexibility of existing or prototype equipment. Innovation scanning allows you to scan a natural or artificial object that inspires you and use the 3D model to create a new or improved design for your equipment. In this way, laser scanning can help you design a helmet that matches your head shape and size, a bike frame that reduces drag and increases speed, a ski that mimics the shape and texture of a snowflake, or a soccer ball that resembles the pattern and geometry of a flower.

3 Process of laser scanning

Laser scanning is a relatively simple and fast process that involves four main steps. Preparation requires you to prepare the object and the scanner, which may involve cleaning the object, applying a coating, or attaching markers. You also need to calibrate the scanner, adjust its settings, and position it at an appropriate distance and angle. Scanning involves moving the scanner around the object or placing it on a rotating platform, emitting a laser beam and capturing the reflected light with a sensor. Processing is done with software that can clean, align, merge, and smooth the points in order to create a mesh, as well as apply a texture to give the object a realistic appearance. Lastly, printing with a 3D printer will create a physical replica of the object that can be used for testing, prototyping, or production.

4 Tips and tricks

Laser scanning is a powerful and versatile technique that can help you design better sports equipment, but it also has some challenges and limitations. To make the most out of it, you need to choose the right scanner according to your needs and budget. For example, a handheld or desktop scanner is best suited for scanning small and intricate objects, while a tripod or fixed scanner is best for large and simple objects. Additionally, you need to test and optimize your 3D model before printing it by using various tools and features in the software to check and correct any errors. You can also use simulation and analysis tools such as FEA or CFD to measure and improve the performance of your 3D model. Finally, you need to experiment with your 3D model by using different materials and colors in the printer to create different effects and finishes.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?