Case Study: Nikon achieves flexible small-series production for handheld 3D scanners with Materialise

Improving Small Series Production for Nikon Handheld 3D Scanners

Nikon Metrology faced the challenge of manufacturing its advanced K-Scan MMDx handheld 3D scanners in small series production runs. The company needed a flexible and cost-effective method to incorporate frequent design changes and new technologies without the delays and expenses associated with conventional tooling. To achieve this, Nikon partnered with vendor Materialise and utilized their additive manufacturing services.

The solution from Materialise leveraged 3D printing to provide unparalleled design freedom and on-demand production. This allowed Nikon to easily implement complex, ergonomic parts in a single piece, significantly reducing both production costs and assembly time. As a result, Materialise enabled Nikon to eliminate the need for inventory, accelerate its time-to-market with new scanner versions, and maintain a competitive edge in its niche market through extreme flexibility.

Nikon

Geert Vandenhoudt

Nikon