A digital record of the surface
A scan records the visible surface that the capture method can reach. The resulting data can support visual records, geometry processing and other downstream tasks. Object condition and access affect what can be captured.
A model for design work
Editable CAD describes design geometry in a form suited to further engineering work. Developing it from scan data is a separate modelling task. Discuss which features matter and whether wear, damage or design changes need interpretation.
Ask for the next step you need
Tell the team whether the data is for viewing, printing, comparison or design modification. Agree file formats and review requirements before capture so the handover supports its intended use.
Before you send the files
- Name the task that follows capture: viewing, comparison, printing or design modification.
- Check which file format the receiving software needs.
- Explain whether wear or damaged surfaces should be reproduced or interpreted.
- Agree whether you need surface data, reconstructed CAD or both.
