Case Study: Millit5 Digital Garage achieves precision 3D scanning and Class-A surfacing for classic-car restoration with 3D Systems

Millit5’s Digital Garage Brings a Passion for Cars into Play with 3D Scanning and Class-A Surfacing

Millit5, led by automotive specialist Kim Gruber in Milford, Michigan, runs a “Digital Garage” that helps restore and verify classic cars by capturing and refining complex vehicle geometry. The core challenge is turning very large 3D scan datasets into production-quality Class‑A surfaces and physical models suitable for parts restoration, CFD/aerodynamic testing and 5‑axis milling while maintaining showroom‑quality highlights and tight tolerances.

Millit5’s solution combines handheld Creaform scanning and photogrammetry with Geomagic Studio/Design X for point‑cloud processing, ICEM Surf for Class‑A surfacing, and 3D printing plus 5‑axis CNC for prototypes and wind‑tunnel models. The workflow delivered repeatable, scan‑to‑surface accuracy (about 0.5 mm), produced scaled and full‑size milled models (Saleen S7, Jaguar XKE), enabled CFD and acoustic testing, and extended to outreach and non‑automotive projects—streamlining restorations and preserving automotive heritage.