Vessel and component scanning for retrofit, as-built documentation, and quality control
Elomatic provides high-accuracy 3D laser scanning for vessels and marine components. As-built documentation, retrofit planning, hull geometry, and quality control.
Elomatic provides high-accuracy 3D laser scanning for vessels, machinery spaces, and individual marine components. We capture precise as-built geometry that engineering teams can work with directly, without relying on outdated drawings or manual measurements. Our scanning services support retrofit planning, Elogrid installations, hull geometry capture for CFD analysis, as-built documentation of newbuilds, and quality inspection of manufactured parts.
Key Takeaways
- Vessel scanning achieves approximately 5 mm accuracy on large projects and down to 2 mm for smaller precision work. Component scanning reaches up to 0.1 mm.
- Scan data is delivered as point clouds, 3D surface models, mesh models, and 2D orthoimages compatible with common CAD systems.
- Scanning eliminates the need to work from outdated drawings, reduces engineering rework, and enables larger prefabricated units to be assembled offsite.
- We have scanned vessels for hull CFD analysis, Elogrid installations, machinery retrofits, and as-built documentation across cruise ships, ferries, and tankers.
- Equipment can be transported by air, enabling scanning at remote drydock locations worldwide.
Two scanning services for different needs
We offer two distinct scanning capabilities depending on the size and accuracy requirements of the project.
Vessel and plant scanning
Large-scale scanning of vessels, machinery spaces, and hull geometry. Accuracy of approximately 5 mm for large projects and 2 mm for smaller precision work. Color scanning produces 360 HDR panoramic photos alongside the point cloud.
Component scanning
Portable scanner for individual parts and equipment, from small fittings to large machinery components. Accuracy up to 0.1 mm. Objects can be brought to our office or we travel to the location. Size range: matchbox to passenger car.
What scanning is used for in marine projects
Machinery retrofits
Accurate 3D geometry of engine rooms and technical spaces for modification engineering, including fuel system changes, ballast water treatment installations, exhaust gas cleaning systems, and piping replacements. Engineering directly in the point cloud eliminates collisions and rework during installation.
Hull geometry for CFD analysis
Existing hull geometry and appendages captured accurately for ship performance simulations and CFD analysis. Used for bulbous bow modifications, ducktail and interceptor design, damage inspection, and geometry needed for ship lengthening or cutting operations.
Elogrid installation
Millimeter-accurate geometry of thruster tunnel openings enables Elogrid components to be manufactured as precision prefabrications. Faster assembly, no rework during docking, shorter drydock time.
As-built documentation
As-built documentation
Documentation of newbuild vessels before handover, including frame structures, tank geometries, and installation data. Data from one vessel is reusable for sister ships. Supports quality assurance and future modification work.
Component quality inspection
Shape analysis compares scanned component geometry against the original CAD model to identify deviations in magnitude and direction. Used for quality control of manufactured parts, damage assessment, and machining allowance inspection.
Component quality inspection
Shape analysis compares scanned component geometry against the original CAD model to identify deviations in magnitude and direction. Used for quality control of manufactured parts, damage assessment, and machining allowance inspection.
Scan data and deliverables
We deliver scan data in formats that can be used directly in engineering workflows, without requiring specialized software on the client side for viewing.
Point cloud (vessel scanning)
3D geometrical data delivered as a browser-based viewing application with HDR 360 panoramic views, measuring tools, and navigation. Also delivered in CAD-compatible format for direct use in design.
3D surface model
Processed from scan data at plant modeling accuracy. Suitable as a maintainable 3D model for future design work. Can also be used directly for modification engineering or structural analysis.
2D orthoimages (vessel scanning)
Accurate projections of scan data onto a plane, suitable for updating 2D AutoCAD plant layouts without migrating to 3D.
Mesh model
Triangulated surface model aligned to the desired coordinate system. Ready for CAD import and usable for designing mating parts or tooling.
Manufacturing drawings (component)
2D drawings created from the 3D model derived from scan data, suitable for spare part manufacturing.
Inspection report (component)
Visual shape analysis report comparing scanned geometry against the original design model, showing deviation magnitude and direction.
How a scanning project works
For vessel scanning, we use a static laser scanner combined with a tachymeter to link the scan to the desired coordinate system and verify overall accuracy. Scanning is performed as a color scan, which also captures 360 HDR photography of each scan position. All scanning is carried out during the docking period with no disruption to other work.
For component scanning, we use a portable handheld scanner that we bring to the vessel or drydock. Movable components can also be sent to our office. The portable scanner reaches accuracy of up to 0.1 mm and handles objects ranging from a matchbox to a passenger car.
We recommend capturing vessel geometry during any planned docking even when there is no immediate project in mind. Having accurate as-built data available in advance reduces lead time significantly when a retrofit or modification project starts.
Plan a scanning project
If you have an upcoming drydock, a retrofit project in early planning, or a component that needs accurate documentation, get in touch with our team. We can advise on scope, timing, and what data format will be most useful for your engineering workflow.
