Boosting Factory Efficiency 80% with 3D Scanning

December 17, 2024
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Updated February 9, 2026
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2 min read

Surveyor using a NavVis wearable 3D scanner in a factory setting to enhance operations.
Global automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler has embraced 3D scanning to transform its factory operations. By digitally mapping 48 of its facilities with mobile laser scanners from NavVis, the company achieved remarkable gains, boosting factory efficiency by up to 80%.

Schaeffler utilized advanced 3D laser scanning technology to create highly accurate digital twins of their production spaces. These digital replicas allow engineers to visualize factory layouts, identify bottlenecks, and streamline workflows without disrupting ongoing operations. From reconfiguring equipment placement to optimizing floor space, the insights gained from these scans proved invaluable.

The key advantage of 3D scanning lies in its precision and speed. Traditional factory assessments can take weeks and are prone to inaccuracies. In contrast, lidar-enabled 3D scans capture exact spatial data quickly, providing a comprehensive view of the environment. Schaeffler used these scans to implement changes in real time, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity.

Furthermore, the digital twins act as a long-term asset, enabling proactive maintenance, easier facility upgrades, and sustainable resource management. For manufacturers operating complex, global operations, 3D scanning represents a game-changing tool to stay competitive.

The Schaeffler example demonstrates how lidar and 3D scanning technologies are revolutionizing industrial environments and boosting factory efficiency. As more companies adopt digital twins, the potential for increased efficiency, cost savings, and innovation will only continue to grow.

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About The Author

Gene Roe - founder of Lidar News

Phoenix Lidar System - complete lidar solutions
SAM Managed geospatial services

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