Regal Marine, a name synonymous with luxury and performance in the boating industry, is steering towards the future of manufacturing with cutting-edge automation. As they integrate robotic arms into their production processes, the need for exceptionally precise data has become paramount. This is where advanced 3D scanning technology comes into play, and for Regal Marine, the FARO Leap ST is proving to be an indispensable tool.
Jeremiah Valero, Automation and Integration Engineer at Regal Marine, highlights the critical role of this technology: "We have some robotic arms that we are integrating into our manufacturing processes, and it's really important to 3D scan all of the molds that we use to integrate into a digital twin that allows us to create path programs for our gel coating process."
Boats, by nature, feature incredibly complex geometries. From the intricate layouts of the helm to the detailed stitching on luxurious upholstery, and materials ranging from highly reflective chrome to matte black components, capturing accurate 3D data poses a significant challenge for traditional scanning methods.
"All of our boats, to some extent, in certain areas can be tight to reach," Valero explains. "So if you're trying to 3D scan a specific part, having a portable device is really, really important."
The FARO Leap ST scanner has emerged as the perfect solution for Regal Marine's demanding requirements, offering a blend of portability, precision, and adaptable scanning modes:
Unmatched Accuracy in Tight Spaces:The Leap ST's design allows it to navigate and capture data in areas that would be impossible for larger, stationary scanners. Valero notes, "The Leap ST was very accurate in smaller areas and that were really hard to reach. It got the details of stitching on our cushions."
Handling Diverse Surfaces:One of the standout features of the Leap ST is its ability to handle a wide array of material finishes. Whether it's the shine of a polished bow, the intricate grilles of a speaker, or even notoriously difficult black and reflective surfaces, the Leap ST delivers. "It was able to get shiny surfaces on our bow, the detail in our speaker," Valero confirms.
Versatile Scanning Modes for Optimized Data:The Leap ST offers multiple scanning modes, a feature that significantly improves workflow and data management. "Having a device that allows me to have five different scanning modes is very useful," says Valero. "Because it allows me to improve the quality of data in the specific areas that matter to me, and reduce quality in other areas, which improves my file quality and how I manage data after I do my scanning." This means engineers can focus high-resolution scanning on critical features while reducing data density in less important areas, leading to more efficient processing without compromising vital details.
User-Friendly and Efficient:Beyond its technical capabilities, the scanner is praised for its practicality. "The Leap ST was also very easy to use, very quick in scanning," Valero concludes.
By accurately 3D scanning molds and boat components, Regal Marine can create precise digital twins. These digital representations are vital for developing robust path programs for their new robotic gel-coating processes, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency across their production line.
Regal Marine's adoption of the FARO Leap ST underscores their commitment to innovation and manufacturing excellence. The ability to tailor scanning to specific application needs allows them to achieve exceptional data quality, driving their automation efforts forward and ultimately delivering a superior product to their customers.